Casera Selvaz

Casera Selvaz sits at 852m in the Carnic Alps of Friuli Venezia Giulia, on the high pasture land between the Tagliamento and But valleys. The hut is reached via a 2-hour hike from Sauris di Sopra, climbing steadily through beech forest. You can also approach from the Passo della Mauria (90 minutes) on the long-distance CAI trail heading toward the Dolomites. Most hikers use it as a base for day walks along the ridgeline or as a waypoint on multi-day traverses linking the Carnic to the Julian Alps.

The rifugio operates year-round and beds around 30 people in simple rooms. Half-board meals focus on local Friuli cooking—expect polenta, game in season, and strong coffee. Water comes from a spring; heating relies on wood stove in the common room. There's no phone signal and no electricity after 22:00. The manager runs a small herd of cattle on the surrounding pasture, and you'll see them grazing in summer. The hut has been family-managed for decades and hosts regular groups from the local CAI sections.

Book direct by ringing the hut landline in advance; email is unreliable. July and August weekends fill quickly. September and early October offer the best balance of stable weather and fewer crowds. Winter access depends on snow conditions and hut staffing—contact before planning a cold-season visit.