The Cuney refuge-oratory

The Cuney refuge-oratory stands at an altitude of 2,656 metres, in the upper Saint-Barthélemy valley, in the municipality of Nus. It brings two things together under one roof: a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows and a hut for walkers.

From a 17th-century chapel to the 1950 building

It all began in the 17th century, with a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows. For generations, pilgrims climbed up here to ask for the Virgin’s protection. The present building dates from 1950. It welcomes both the faithful and walkers.

The statue that always came back

A legend explains the choice of this spot. A shepherd is said to have found a small statue of the Virgin near the present site. The local people tried several times to carry it elsewhere. Each time, the statue is said to have returned to its place. So they built the chapel on that very spot.

Stone and wood

The building has stone walls pierced by small windows and a timber roof frame. The chapel is decorated with frescoes.

The pilgrimage of 5 August

On 5 August, the feast of Our Lady of the Snows, a pilgrimage climbs to the refuge. Mass is celebrated in the open air. This is an old tradition. Apart from that date, in summer the place is visited mainly by walkers.

Walks around the refuge

Cuney serves as a base for longer outings. Experienced mountaineers can aim for the Becca di Luseney or Mont Morion. Easier paths cross the pastures and forests of the valley.

Getting there

The refuge is open from mid-June to mid-September. It is reached on foot from the hamlet of Lignan, in the municipality of Nus: allow about 3 hours 30 minutes’ walk. If you want to stay the night, it is best to book, especially in high season.

Refuge Oratoire de Cuney
Località Cuney
11020 Nus (AO)
Telephone: (+39) 375 687 5114
Access: from the hamlet of Lignan (municipality of Nus), about 3 hours 30 minutes’ walk
Booking: strongly recommended in high season
Open: from mid-June to mid-September