refugis

Refugis, the Catalan plural of refugiu, are facilities designed to provide shelter and protection from the weather or from danger. They encompass a range of structures and sites, from mountain huts along trekking routes to wildlife refuges and emergency shelters used in disasters. In general use, refugis are places where people can rest, sleep, or seek shelter during travel, storms, or long walks; some offer beds, cooking facilities, water, heating, and meals, while others are basic shelters with minimal amenities.

Common categories include refugis de muntanya (mountain refuges), which are often remote huts with sleeping areas and simple kitchens; refugis for travelers in rural or coastal areas; and protected refuges for wildlife and habitats where access may be regulated to protect species. Some refugis are historic buildings repurposed as shelters, including inns or fortifications with heritage value.

Management and operation are typically handled by public agencies such as national or regional parks, by mountaineering associations, or by private or charitable organizations. Funding comes from a mix of user fees, government subsidies, donations, and volunteer labor. Access rules vary: some refugis operate on a first-come, first-served basis, others require advance booking or fees, and some are accessible only via designated trails.

In Catalan-speaking regions, refugis are a common feature in the Pyrenees and other mountain areas, forming an essential part of trekking infrastructure and contributing to safety and tourism. They also reflect cultural heritage through historic shelters and traditional hospitality.