Ricovero Casera Valmedan alta
1.1
1,574m
Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy
About
Ricovero Casera Valmedan Alta sits at 1574m on the high pastures of the Carnia range in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Reach it from Forni di Sopra (valley floor, ~600m) via the Valmedan valley—a steady 4.5-hour climb through beech forest that opens into alpine meadows. The final approach crosses open terrain with good views north toward the Julian Alps. Winter snow blocks the route reliably November through May.
The rifugio functions as a basic mountain shelter with capacity for around 20 people. Expect dormitory beds, a small kitchen, and a wood stove rather than hotel comforts. Water comes from a spring; there's no hot shower. The hut operates summer only (June to September), managed by local hikers who maintain it as a working base for the Carnia traverses. It's ideal for self-catering groups or as a staging point for multi-day ridge walks heading toward Zoncolan or the Presolana passes.
This is a volunteer-run shelter without formal booking infrastructure. Contact the Forni di Sopra tourist office or CAI Carnia section directly to arrange access and confirm opening dates. Arrive with supplies—the nearest shop is in the valley. Summer weekends can see foot traffic, particularly July and August, but the shelter rarely fills completely given its simple facilities and remote location.
The rifugio functions as a basic mountain shelter with capacity for around 20 people. Expect dormitory beds, a small kitchen, and a wood stove rather than hotel comforts. Water comes from a spring; there's no hot shower. The hut operates summer only (June to September), managed by local hikers who maintain it as a working base for the Carnia traverses. It's ideal for self-catering groups or as a staging point for multi-day ridge walks heading toward Zoncolan or the Presolana passes.
This is a volunteer-run shelter without formal booking infrastructure. Contact the Forni di Sopra tourist office or CAI Carnia section directly to arrange access and confirm opening dates. Arrive with supplies—the nearest shop is in the valley. Summer weekends can see foot traffic, particularly July and August, but the shelter rarely fills completely given its simple facilities and remote location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (June-September) by contacting via rifugio.net or calling ahead—this is a small 20-person shelter and fills quickly on weekends. Winter visits require prior arrangement as it's not regularly staffed.
Open June through September with reliable staffing; accessible outside these months only with prior permission and self-sufficiency, as snow blocks the route November-May.
Start from Forni di Sopra (600m elevation) and climb 4.5 hours up the Valmedan valley through beech forest to alpine meadows, gaining roughly 1000m elevation with good views toward the Julian Alps.
Basic mountain shelter with capacity for 20; expect simple meals (check ahead on options), basic bunk beds, and limited or no shower facilities—treat it as a functional hut, not a hotel.
The 4.5-hour ascent and 1000m gain suit confident hikers rather than beginners; families with mountain experience and good fitness can manage it, but it's not ideal for young children or those new to Alpine hiking.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Self catering
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website