Alpine Dairy Cason di Lanza

Malga Cason di Lanza sits at 1,560m on the Carnia plateau in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a working alpine dairy surrounded by beech forest and open pasture. Reach it from Paularo in the Tagliamento valley—roughly 2 hours on foot via marked trail 404. The route climbs steadily through mixed woodland before opening onto alpine meadows. You can also approach from Forni di Sopra, a longer but gentler option via trail 401.

This is part working farm, part walkers' refuge. The malga operates seasonally and offers simple meals built around local dairy products and mountain fare. Expect 20–30 beds in basic but clean dormitories. There's no shower, but the setting and food justify the spartan comfort. The hut sits at the junction of several valley walks and ridge traverses—ideal for a night on the Carnia high plateau or a base for multi-day traverses toward the Dolomites.

Contact the hut directly for availability and booking. Phone ahead—this is a working malga, not a staffed commercial rifugio. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially July and August. Opening dates vary by season but typically run June through September. Arrive early if you haven't booked, particularly on weekday mornings when the kitchen is less pressured.