About
Rifugio Chiadinas sits at 1,650m on the eastern slopes of Mount Zermula in the Julian Alps. Reach it from Forni di Sopra (680m) via a well-marked trail that climbs steadily through beech and spruce forest for 3.5 hours. The path gains 970m elevation and is the standard access route. Alternative approaches exist from the Tramonti di Sopra valley to the west, but take longer. The hut perches on open terrain with views across the Carnic ridge system toward the Slovenian border.
The refuge runs as a simple mountain operation with 30 beds across shared rooms. Meals focus on regional Friuli dishes—you'll eat hearty pasta and local cured meats rather than haute cuisine. The kitchen provides packed lunches for onward treks. Showers require advance notice. The season runs June through September; autumn conditions deteriorate rapidly after mid-October. Winter closure is standard. Electricity comes via a small generator, not grid power.
Book direct by calling or emailing the hut manager—search "Rifugio Chiadinas Forni di Sopra" for current contact details. July and August weekends fill quickly; book 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. May and early June offer better availability and fewer crowds. The hut takes cash and bank transfers; card payment depends on mobile signal reception. Arrive before 17:00 if you haven't pre-ordered dinner.
The refuge runs as a simple mountain operation with 30 beds across shared rooms. Meals focus on regional Friuli dishes—you'll eat hearty pasta and local cured meats rather than haute cuisine. The kitchen provides packed lunches for onward treks. Showers require advance notice. The season runs June through September; autumn conditions deteriorate rapidly after mid-October. Winter closure is standard. Electricity comes via a small generator, not grid power.
Book direct by calling or emailing the hut manager—search "Rifugio Chiadinas Forni di Sopra" for current contact details. July and August weekends fill quickly; book 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. May and early June offer better availability and fewer crowds. The hut takes cash and bank transfers; card payment depends on mobile signal reception. Arrive before 17:00 if you haven't pre-ordered dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August), especially weekends; shoulder months need less notice. Contact the hut directly or use rifugi.net and cai.it for availability.
Most Julian Alps rifugi operate June through September with full staffing; check directly as hours vary yearly. Off-season visits require prior arrangement with the guardian.
Start from Forni di Sopra (680m) on the marked trail climbing 3.5 hours and 970m elevation gain through beech and spruce forest to 1,650m; alternatives from Tramonti di Sopra exist but take longer.
Expect basic mountain accommodation with shared dorm beds, simple dinners and breakfasts, and limited washing facilities typical of high Alpine rifugi; bring a headtorch and confirm hot water availability when booking.
The 3.5-hour ascent from Forni di Sopra is moderate but steep with nearly 1,000m gain—suitable for fit hikers with good boots and acclimatization, not ideal for young children or very inexperienced walkers.
Location
46.5656, 12.8947
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Friuli Venezia Giulia before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in Friuli Venezia GiuliaBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
4.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.