A refuge is an establishment open to the public within the meaning of the article R. 143-2 du code de la construction et de l’habitation, whether manned or unmanned, situated at altitude in an isolated location.
Its isolation is characterised by the absence of access either by road or by ski lift open to the public and by its inaccessibility for at least part of the year to emergency vehicles and equipment.
The refuge is located in a mountain area within the meaning of Chapter I of Title I of Law no. 85-30 of 9 January 1985 on the development and protection of mountains.