Haus Pa'Sefn

A 19th-Century Carinthian Family Home Transformed into a Modern Alpine Retreat

Once a cherished childhood home with many memories, this 19th-century vacation home rental in Italy's unique Sauris region has remained in the same family for generations. Located in the charming village of Sauris di Sopra in the Lumiei Valley, it is surrounded by stunning Alpine beauty. 

Respectfully restored by the great grandchild of the original owner, its warmth and rustic character has been preserved and is defined by the unique Carinthian architectural influences found throughout the region.

This home in the hamlet of Sauris di Sopra was converted from an old family dwelling that belonged to grandpa Giuseppe, known as "Sefn" in the Sauris dialect. The space was respectfully divided into three units, identical in arrangement and amenities but different in spirit. Toca Terra, close to the ground with easy access to the roads, is the body. Anima Monti is protected and sentimental, a space for emotions—the heart. Sulle Nuvole, with its breathtaking views, is the mind, a space for meditation and reflection.

Similar to the rest of the semi-isolated mountain homes and villages in the Lumiei Valley, Haus Pa'Sefn is built in wood and stone, employing the ancient Blockbau technique, using interlocking tree trunks.  The simple clean lines and minimalist contemporary furnishings have transformed the spaces into a stylish 21st-century retreat. Outdoor spaces include a private garden with a barbecue and dining areas, and there's a sauna for apres-ski.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Daily breakfast available on request for an additional charge. Wifi throughout, cable TV, kitchen and bath amenities, laundry facilities, firewood provided.

AROUND

Sauris di Sopra in the northern Udine region is located in the highest mountain range in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Surrounded by the towering Dolomites in the Carnic Alps, the lush Lumiei Valley is home to three separate villages: Sauris di Sotto, Sauris di Sopra and Lateis.

Semi-isolated for centuries, the area evolved with a uniquely Carinthian influence, with an ancient German dialect still spoken throughout the villages. The area is a natural wonderland of dense forests, meadows  and mountain terrain with the beautiful Sauris Lake at its center. 

From hiking, skiing, cycling and exploring, it's an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with a charming town center of shops, spas, a brewery and excellent local restaurants serving a fusion of uniquely northern cuisine. 

Just over an hour south is the mountain-ringed city of Udine. With hundreds of years of influence from both the Austrian and Venetian empires, the city is a dramatic mix of historic design and architecture through the ages, especially the grand Piazza della Libertà.

The medieval old town is its lively heart, with the city's hilltop castle and Galleria d'Arte Antica housing some of the great works of Vittore Carpaccio, Tiepolo and more.

LOCATION

Sauris di Sopra, Udine, Italy. Nearest airport: Venice (160 km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round, with mild weather in spring through fall, and snowy winters with good skiing nearby