Casa Cadorna in Doberdò del Lago

Gorizia, Isonzo Karst and Collio Monuments and historic buildings

Casa Cadorna refuge stands on Mount Castellazzo, one of the many hills of the Karst plateau near Doberdò del Lago.

Built in 1916 and later restored in 1977, it lies at an altitude of 106 metres along a Karst road originally used by the Austro-Hungarian army and subsequently by Italian forces after the front shifted eastward following the Sixth Battle of the Isonzo. The refuge takes its name from General Luigi Cadorna, who visited the troops stationed here and considered the position particularly well protected against potential enemy attacks.

The site can be reached from Doberdò by following the CAI 77 trail on foot or by mountain bike, along a route that ends near the lake. Along the way, visitors can still observe—while exercising due caution—numerous military remains, especially trenches and fortified positions. After approximately two kilometres, the trail leads to Casa Cadorna refuge, which offers magnificent panoramic views over Lake Doberdò and the Trieste Karst, particularly toward Mount Ermada.