An authentic refuge in the heart of the Fribourg Pre-Alps
A must-see in summer and winter alike, the Cabane du Petit Oiseau welcomes you to its unspoilt natural setting, ideal for relaxing and socialising.
In summer
Enjoy the sunny terrace, a ride on the little train and a mini zoo where goats, Hérens cows, pigs, donkeys and other animals delight young and old alike.
In winter
Ideally situated in the middle of the Rathvel slopes, the hut becomes a warm refuge after a day's skiing or snowshoeing. The goats, donkeys and pigs are there to delight visitors, even in winter.
Local cuisine
The hut offers generous dishes with local flavours, including:
- Half and half fondue (Gruyère PDO & Vacherin Fribourgeois PDO)
- Rathvel cheese crust
- Rösti mushrooms
- Rösti Niremont (ham and cheese)
- Country ham, cheese and local cold meats
- Desserts: meringue with Gruyère double cream and home-made tart
A starting point for hikers
The Cabane du Petit Oiseau is ideally located for hikers and nature lovers. There are several footpaths leading to the hut and exploring the surrounding area.
Popular routes include
- Family hike from Les Paccots (duration: 1h30): An accessible route offering beautiful views.
- Panoramic loop around the Pre-Alps: A longer trail to discover a variety of landscapes.
- Snowshoe itinerary in winter, for a magical immersion in a snowy setting.
Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a walk in the heart of nature, the hut is the perfect place to recharge your batteries before continuing your exploration.
Reservations
Reservations can be made outside of opening hours, except on Tuesdays, for groups of 30 people or more.
The mini train & Zoo
The mini train only runs in summer during the refreshment bar's opening hours.
The mini zoo is open in summer and winter, but only when the refreshment bar is open.
Winter
Winter opening hours (December to March):
Opening times vary depending on weather conditions and snowfall. Please check their news section or contact them before your visit.
The opening is scheduled for 20 December at the latest, unless there is sufficient snowfall to allow for an early opening, which will then take place as soon as the ski lifts are in operation.
The refreshment bar will be open 7 days a week, from 8.30am to 6pm.
During night skiing, it will remain open until 11pm.
Cabane du Petit Oiseau
Route du Moléson
1618 Châtel-St-Denis
Opening hours
From 20 Dec 2025 to 31 Mar 2026
Monday - Sunday
08:30 - 18:00
From 1 May to 13 Jul 2026
Monday
09:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday - Thursday
09:00 - 18:00
Friday - Saturday
09:00 - 22:00
Sunday
09:00 - 18:00
From 14 Jul to 17 Aug 2026
Monday
09:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday - Saturday
09:00 - 22:00
Sunday
09:00 - 18:00
From 18 Aug to 12 Oct 2026
Monday
09:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday - Thursday
09:00 - 18:00
Friday - Saturday
09:00 - 22:00
Sunday
09:00 - 18:00
