Rifugio Barant

The Barant hiking refuge is located at the pass of the same name, at 2373 meters, also known as the Baracun pass, in the Site of Community Importance “Oasi del Pra-Barant.” This site, covering 4120 hectares, features a succession of various habitats typical of the alpine region, home to unique endemic species and fauna, such as the ibex. Surrounding the Refuge is a natural mosaic of exceptional interest: for this reason, it is one of the ten thousand sites identified by the European Union for the preservation of biodiversity in Europe, enhanced through educational panels scattered along the trails of the entire area, titled “Let’s Learn to Observe” (ask at the Refuge for the free publication). The Refuge itself is a testament to the valley's past. Both the access road and the building were constructed in the 1930s by the military and are genuine masterpieces of human ingenuity. The barracks, restored by the Community of Val Pellice in 1994 and renovated with provincial, regional, and European funding, have been transformed into a welcoming facility with 40 (now fewer) beds, while still retaining its original character. The Refuge is now owned by the Union of the Pinerolese Mountains, which entrusts it to a manager. It is equipped with essential services and offers simple but warm hospitality. A homestyle kitchen is available, using local cheeses, cured meats, and other products, and you can get plenty of information about hikes and the surrounding area directly from the manager, who is happy to chat when time allows. Overnight stays are obviously possible, in dormitories, preferably by reservation. Bed capacity: 30 distributed in two dormitories. For cleanliness reasons related to the kitchen, the manager does not allow pets inside. Open in July and August, and from Friday to Sunday in June and September, weather permitting.