Bivak Hlek

1.0
1,224m Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy
Demanding

About

Bivak Hlek sits at 1224m in the Julian Alps of Friuli Venezia Giulia, accessed from the Sella Nevea area near the Slovenian border. The approach takes 2–3 hours on foot via marked trails through mixed forest and alpine meadow. The hut lies on routes connecting the Kanin Plateau to lower valleys, making it useful for ridge traverses and multi-day mountaineering circuits in this limestone massif.

This is a basic mountain bivouac with sleeping space for around 20 people in shared dormitory arrangements. Expect Alpine club-standard facilities: no hot water, pit toilet, and minimal cooking equipment. Water is available from a spring near the shelter. The hut operates year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk—check conditions locally before attempting a winter ascent. The bivouac is unguarded; you bring your own food, fuel, and bedding.

Contact the local CAI section (CAI Monfalcone or CAI Gorizia) for current conditions and access information. This is not a staffed rifugio, so arrive with supplies and a headtorch. The Sella Nevea trailhead is 90 minutes from Udine by car. Summer (June–September) is the practical season for most parties; spring and autumn require route-finding experience on wet limestone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2–4 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August); this is a small bivouac with only ~20 beds, so it fills quickly. Contact via CAI or check rifugio listings on cai.it or rifugi.net for availability.
Open June through September; staffing depends on demand, so confirm ahead. Winter access is possible for experienced mountaineers, but facilities are minimal and unguarded.
From Sella Nevea, follow marked trails through mixed forest and alpine meadow for 2–3 hours. The hut sits on ridge routes connecting the Kanin Plateau, making it ideal for traverses rather than a standalone destination.
Basic dormitory sleeping for ~20 people, limited cooking facilities, and water access; no hot showers or meals served. Bring your own food or plan resupply carefully.
No—this is a backcountry bivouac for experienced hikers and mountaineers tackling multi-day limestone circuits. The exposed ridge terrain, spartan facilities, and long approach make it unsuitable for families or beginners.

Quick Facts

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Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

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