Hiking adventure in Friuli

On Monte Lussari: High Above the Town of Tarvis

Just beyond the Italian border lies Tarvis, a charming little town nestled at the foot of Monte Lussari, which we have the pleasure of hiking on our first day. Early in the morning, we take a transfer to the cable car station, which whisks us to the top in just a few minutes. After a few steps, we reach a delightful little shopping street on Monte Lussari, featuring cozy eateries, restaurants, and quaint souvenir shops.

The trail begins on a scenic path through forests and meadows, gradually leading us over rocky paths, boulders, and scree. Surrounded by mist and an enchanting, mystical atmosphere, we finally reach Cima del Cacciatore. After a short break, we head back to the cable car, which takes us down into the valley after a peaceful and memorable hike.

Hiker with blue backpack walking on gravel mountain trail with wooden fence railing, surrounded by green forest and misty valley views.

The Friuli Region: Everything at Once Please!

Whether high up on the mountain, hiking through vineyards, or walking trails with views of the Adriatic—our hiking tour through the still-unknown Friuli region offers everything that makes a hiker’s heart race. Each day brings a new and varied adventure, leaving us eager to uncover more of the region’s many treasures. While Friuli is primarily known to cyclists, we, too, find plenty to enjoy as hikers. The trails begin surrounded by mountain ranges, meandering through charming villages, past grazing horses and vineyards, and lead all the way to the refreshing sea breeze—capped off with the grand finale: the port city of Trieste.

Panoramic view from Monte Quarin showing terraced vineyards on hillside overlooking Cormons town and Friuli countryside under cloudy sky.

Accompanied by Mountains and Through Lush Vineyards

Our journey continues with a transfer from Tarvis to Venzone. This delightful Italian town is a true hidden gem. We settle into one of the cozy cafés to savor a delicious cappuccino. Afterward, we set off on our hike, passing through quaint villages until we reach the impressive military area of Rivoli Bianchi. The trail continues through the white gravel landscape, following peaceful, idyllic forest paths, passing a few scattered houses and an old ruin, until we arrive at our destination for the day: Gemona. The next day takes us through the beautiful old town of Gemona, continuing through the charming village and past the homes of local residents. Accompanied by the cheerful chirping of birds and the soothing hum of crickets, we hike through meadows and fields, farms and forests, making our way to our next stop.

Upon arriving in Artegna and completing a short ascent to the Castello, we take the train to our final destination for the day: Udine. The following day starts with a steep climb through the village of Cormòns, where we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the village. The trail then leads us through the stunning natural beauty of the region, passing by goats and a small horse farm. Surrounded by the sweet fragrance of ripe grapes, we wander through numerous vineyards, indulging in a few grapes along the way. After an invigorating hike, we relax by the hotel pool, basking in perfect weather to end the day.

Female hiker with backpack and walking poles sitting in yellow photo frame marked 'Collio Brda', overlooking green vineyards and hills.

Turquoise Isonzo River with rocky banks flowing through Sagrado village in Friuli. Church spire visible among green trees and hills.

Two female hikers walking on a gravel path through Friuli countryside with mountains in background and purple wildflowers in foreground.

Stone chapel with bell tower and arched openings in Venzone, Friuli, set against green mountains and cloudy sky in a grassy meadow.

The Grand Finale – The Port City of Trieste

Our final day is upon us – the Grand Finale: the journey to the beautiful port city of Trieste. After a short train ride to Bivio d’Aurisina, we begin with a pleasant walk through the small village, soon rewarded with a breathtaking view – the sea stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s only now that we realize our destination is within reach. The trail begins with rocky terrain, always accompanied by stunning views of the Adriatic. We then continue along a narrow forest path that eventually opens up into a cozy, shaded section. With the salty sea breeze in the air, this hike allows us to unwind and fully immerse ourselves in the beautiful surroundings. Our tired legs carry us onward to Contovello, where we take the bus to Trieste. The "Little Vienna by the Sea" greets us with bright sunshine, and after the long hike, we treat ourselves to a gelato and a leisurely stroll through Piazza Unità d’Italia.

Coastal view of Piran, Slovenia showing historic bell tower, Mediterranean architecture, and marina with sailboats and yachts under cloudy sky.

Mein LIeblingsplatz

The journey through Friuli – from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea – is filled with countless scenic highlights that make any hiker’s heart race. My absolute favorite spot is a particularly special one: the Vedetta Weiss viewpoint along the hike from Gradisca to Trieste.

After a short ascent, we’re rewarded with a stunning vista. The destination, Trieste, feels just within reach, and with the vast Adriatic stretching before us, we can fully savor the view. As the journey nears its end, it’s a moment to reflect with pride on the miles we've walked. From this viewpoint, it becomes clear just how far we've come.

Beautiful hiking trail at Vedetta Weiss with a view of the sea

On Monte Lussari: High Above the Town of Tarvis

The Friuli Region: Everything at Once Please!

Accompanied by Mountains and Through Lush Vineyards

The Grand Finale – The Port City of Trieste

My Conclusion

Mein LIeblingsplatz