The French Federation of Alpine and Mountain Clubs (FFCAM) is seeking a new guardian for his refuge in Valmasque, in Tende. A building “a bit rustic” on “a rocky outcrop on the edge of the Green Lake“: this is the framework described by Georges Torrelli, vice-president of the French Alpine Club (Caf) of the Alpes-Maritimes, who is in charge of recruiting the new goalkeeper – or guardian – who will have to take up his duties at the latest in June. “It is superb” he summarizes, not forgetting to praise the terrace where the breakfasts, at more than 2,200 meters above sea level, turn into “3 star meals.“
An idyllic setting for demanding work
One thing is certain: the replacement for Michel Duranti, goalkeeper for 25 years and who is retiring, will have to love the mountains. Even if he will rarely be there alone. From May to October, the refuge sees many hikers. About fifty can sleep at the same time on the premises. Charge to the caretaker to take care of this accommodation, reservations, supplies, meals, advice for hikers but also, sometimes, the hazards that accompany isolated places. Repairing a leak, organizing mountain rescue. As manager, he is also responsible for finances. He is not paid directly but gets a percentage of each night.
We don’t leave without shedding a tear -Michel Duranti, former goalkeeper
“The place is very beautiful, the passage of people, the friends I made in the valley, I will miss all of life as a goalkeeper. Being up there is a privilege“says Michel Duranti, goalkeeper for 25 years and who at the time of retirement, has a slight twinge in the heart at the idea of no longer going up to Valmasque every summer. “We do not leave there without shedding a tear. That’s a long time, a quarter of a century!” But he warns: the new goalkeeper’s first season could be a bit complicated. Storm Alex left its mark in these valleys.
– FFCAM – Georges Torelli
Although the buildings were not directly affected, post-storm Alex was difficult due to the destroyed road. The refuge, which is already only accessible on foot from Castérino, has found itself even more isolated. “There were 1,800 meters to climb from Saint-Dalmas-de-Tende to the refuge. A good day’s walk. People who do not necessarily have the sports faculties hesitated, it was catastrophic. We lost a lot of nights“explains Georges Torrelli. The situation has improved a little, with a portion of the road reopened to Lac des Mesches. But it is still impossible to drive up to the hamlet of Castérino and the 2021 season has also paid the price. Will 2022 be better?
Handyman, sportsman, resourceful: refuge keeper, it’s an all-terrain job, demanding, made for mountain enthusiasts. The bravest can even take advantage of the lake for swimming (7 degrees). To your applications!
The application must be sent before March 20, 2022 by email to [email protected] and to [email protected]