What to do at high altitude

Forni di Sopra is the preferred gateway to that corner of the Dolomites which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Varmost ski resort, nestled among forests, alpine pastures, and rounded peaks, is a terrace of excellence from which to admire the endless rocky spires and daring gullies that rise in the near distance.

The first section of the Varmost chairlift takes visitors to the 1450 metres of the Som Picol peak, from where it is possible to reach the nearby Som Picol alpine hut to enjoy the typical cuisine of Forni di Sopra. From the arrival station, it is also possible to reach the Baita La Suita chalet by climbing the edge of the "Fienili" track.

The second section of the Varmost chairlift takes visitors up to the Malga Varmost alpine hut at an altitude of 1750 metres (it is closed in winter) and to the Self Service.

In this area, pedestrian access to the slopes dedicated to alpine skiing is prohibited.

Some of the activities being proposed require adequate physical and technical preparation because they are performed in a high mountain environment. In winter, snowpack conditions can change suddenly in response to changing weather conditions: a good knowledge of the processes of snow transformation and settlement is mandatory in the case of outings that take place beyond controlled areas, such as ski resorts.

Consulting the regional avalanche bulletin (Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia - Avalanche Bulletin) is a practice that must precede every outing in snow-covered terrain. The use of avalanche transceiver equipment and a safety kit consisting of a Snow Shovel and Probe is also a good practice. The correct use of these devices and the understanding of their full functionality are fundamental elements of the safety ring that travelling on snowy winter terrains require.

The mountain professionals of the Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia are available to safely guide you into the magical world of winter.

Mountain huts which can be reached from the chairlift stations:

• Rifugio Som Picol alpine hut, 1446 metres from the first facility Tel. 0039 349 2250377 sompicol.fornidisopra@gmail.com
• Baita La Suita chalet, 1550 metres from the first facility in approximately 15 minutes on foot following the Fienili track Tel. 0039 333 4335037
• Varmost Restaurant, 1758 metres from the second facility (management is currently being contracted)

Hikes starting from the chairlift:

• The Small Lakes (I Laghetti)

From the arrival station of the first section of the Varmost chairlift, visitors can take an easy route to visit the small lakes located in a panoramic and sunny position at an altitude of 1500 metres. The area can be reached by ascending the Fienili track in the direction of the La Suita alpine hut. Near the small lakes, the beaten track for cross-country skiing allows a peaceful walk around the 2 lakes, a short distance from where there is also the possibility of a refreshment stop.

Difficulty level: easy
Duration: 1.30 hours round trip from Som Picol
Total elevation gain: approximately 50 metres 
Information: info.fornidisopra@promoturismo.fvg.it