Perched at 1,019 m on the Šerlich ridge in the Orlické Mountains, just a stone's throw from the Czech–Polish border, Masarykova chata is one of the most characterful mountain huts in this quiet corner of Central Europe. Built in 1924–1925 by the Club of Czechoslovak Tourists, it combines a rich history with a genuinely warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back season after season.

The hut sits right on the main ridge, offering views across both sides of the border. Summer brings lush meadows and beech forests, while winter transforms the area into a Nordic skiing paradise — the red ridge trail (Jirásek Path) becomes a groomed cross-country ski route. Just nearby lies the 'Bukačka' nature reserve, a rare patch of primeval beech forest. Inside, the wooden interior and a carved pillar in the dining room created by sculptor Josef Kubíček give the hut an atmosphere you won't find in modern accommodation.

• From Zieleniec (Poland) — blue trail, difficulty: moderate
• From Šerlišský Mlýn — blue trail (can be combined from Olešnice, Sedloňov or Deštné), difficulty: easy to moderate
• From Deštné v Orlických horách — yellow trail, difficulty: easy; bus stop 'Šerlich, Masarykova chata' approx. 200 m from the hut
• From Olešnice v Orlických horách — red trail (via Vrchmezí and Polomské sedlo), difficulty: moderate
• From Mezivrší — red trail (via Pěticestí, Homole and Velká Deštná), difficulty: moderate

• Altitude: 1,019 m above sea level
• Location: 3.5 km north-east of Deštné v Orlických horách, on the Czech–Polish border
• Parking: large car park at Šerlich saddle, close to the hut
• Bus stop approx. 200 m from the hut
• Nearest railway station: Dobruška, approx. 15 km away
• Nearby: cable car from Zieleniec on the Polish side
• Listed as a protected cultural monument since 1958

When the hut was inaugurated in September 1925, it was placed under the patronage of the famous Czech writer Alois Jirásek — who, characteristically, didn't actually show up for the opening. Some traditions are timeless.