Rifugio Giaf
In a fascinating landscape
- Forni di Sopra (UD)
- 1400 m
- Summer
- 1 hour
- 2 km
- 350 m
About this place
The Giaf hut was established in 1947 and, since then, has been one of the most popular destinations in the area, as it is easily accessible in about an hour’s hike and full of opportunities for hikers of all levels. The Dolomite panorama is unparalleled, with the Crìdola Tower silhouetted in the clear sky beyond the forest barrier. The small hut stands in an exceptional setting, in the midst of a living forest, rich in animals and and even rare botanical species.
Why visit it
01.
young, international
Rifugio Giaf has recently changed management (2026). It has always been managed in a modern and innovative way. Their historical managers have always carried on the management of the Rifugio with an international spirit, in a youthful, multicultural and welcoming environment.
02.
location
The location in the Friulian Dolomites Park, on a grassy ledge in the middle of the forest, surrounded by the Dolomite panorama and overlooked by the Crìdola tower make this hut unique. The quiet interrupted only by the sounds of the forest arouses in the visitor the emotion of being in an enchanted place.
03.
activities and events
At the Giaf shelter, there is never a dull moment. In addition to walks to discover the surroundings or more challenging hikes, the lodge organizes countless activities and events such as the Herb Festival, Summer Camp for the youngest, and stays dedicated to Yoga and mindfulness practices.
Landscape
The Giaf hut stands on a grassy plateau in the middle of the forest. The landscape is overlooked by the spectacular dolomite towers of the Crìdola massif. Forni Tower, Cima Barbe and Urtisiel peaks stand out. The Crìdola Tower rises beyond the forest on the Coston di Giaf, creating a stark contrast to the bright green. Color is what characterizes this area, with its hues dictated by seasonal changes.
Naturalistically, the area is very rich and you can see gentians or the Scarpetta della Madonna, the largest orchid in the Alps. Not only that, at sunrise and sunset, a rare spectacle can be seen in the surrounding areas, the alpenglow, the phenomenon whereby the peaks take on a reddish color that gradually changes to purple. This event affects the Dolomites because the composition of the rock causes the sun’s rays to refract, resulting in the pinkish color.
Itineraries and routes
The Giaf hut is popular for the dozens of hikes and climbs the area offers. Trails of varying levels and difficulty, as well as a variety of mountaineering tracks, branch off from the grassy plateau.
Highly appreciated are theBianchi Ring, an interesting nature and scenic route, and theFriulian Dolomites Ring, which allows you to discover in several days the 4 Rifugio: Giaf, Flaiban Pacherini, Pordenone and Padova.
Other proposals are the Urtisiel pass; the Marchi Granzotto bivouac; the“Truoi dai Sclops,” a gentian path; the Alta Via n.6; and the Cadore Ring.
For snowshoeing enthusiasts, the road to Giaf is groomed by snowcat in winter. Many ski mountaineering trails also depart from the hut.
Services
The Giaf shelter has 48 beds divided into 7 rooms, including double rooms.
The lodge offers food service with 45 indoor seats in the warmth of the fogolâr and another 80 outside on the large lawn in front.
Also outside are deck chairs to enjoy the summer warmth, a small children’s play area, a picnic area, and winter bivouac.
The three young managers know how to convey all their love for nature and the mountains, thus becoming valuable sources of information, perfect guides and event organizers.
Opening season
The Giaf shelter is open daily from about the end of May to the end of September.
Opening times are variable and susceptible to weather conditions; contact the lodge for updated information.
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The interiors and rooms
The Giaf hut, although managed in a modern way, still wears the clothes of a typical hut, respecting pure mountain tradition. The rooms are simple, but cozy; delightful are those in the attic. The interiors are wood-paneled, decorated with figures referring to rural and mountain life. The main dining room environment is heated by the traditional Friulian fogolâr. The atmosphere created is that of a mountain gathering, in the warmth of the fire, sipping homemade schnapps.
Parking and route
From Forni di Sopra drive along the state road towards Mauria Pass for 3 km to the hamlet of Chiandarens. Follow the signs to Giaf Shelter and park near the bridge over Giaf Creek. Continue on foot along the forest road or via CAI trail 346. Both routes make it possible to reach the hut in about 1 h.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Giaf hut offers alternative cuisine compared to other huts. In fact, in addition to typical Friulian dishes, you can taste delicious Roman cuisine, thanks to Marco, manager and cook, who is of Lazio origin.
Certainly. Many activities are offered at Rifugio Giaf including Yoga in the Mountains, experiential workshops or “Yoga and Hiking” stays. To learn more you can contact the managers directly.
The natural spectacle and the opportunity for outdoor play are a perfect combination for children. The trail to Giaf is simple and safe, suitable for children who are used to walking in the mountains. There is also a play area in the area outside the shelter.
Contact Giaf hut
Through this section you can contact the Giaf Shelter directly. Use it to request information on services, rates, meal and overnight reservations, weather and trail status information, and trails. Remember that with this form you will contact the activity managers directly. Explorer FVG does not handle responses, nor is it responsible for the information exchanged in these conversations.
Contact information:
Rifugio Giaf
Location Chiandarens,
33024 Forni di sopra UD
Managers (since 2026): Nicola Zonta and Gloria Rubin
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