Ricovero Casera Paluchian

Ricovero Casera Paluchian sits at 1625m in the Julian Alps of Friuli Venezia Giulia, on the high plateau between Monte Matajur and the Natisone valley. Reach it from Cividale del Friuli by driving to Montemaggiore, then hiking 2.5 hours up pastoral meadows and forest. The final section crosses open grassland with views into Slovenia. The hut also connects to longer traverses across the plateau toward Montes Pal and Orsaria—useful for mountaineers linking multiple peaks.

This is a small, basic rifugio with around 30 beds in dormitory rooms. Meals are simple: pasta, polenta, and local cheese. Water comes from a spring. The hut operates year-round but staff presence is sporadic outside summer months, so check ahead. It functions more as a shelter than a destination: expect rustic facilities and no hot showers.

The CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) manages access. Call ahead to confirm opening and arrange meals, especially in shoulder seasons. July and August are busy; book 2–3 weeks before. Winter access depends on snow conditions and staff availability—contact the local CAI section in Cividale for current status. The hut works best as a basecamp for plateau hiking rather than a comfortable overnight.