A total of 19 of PromoTurismoFVG mapped hiking tours lead into an authentic, accessible, and surprising mountain world: in Carnia, in the Gemona area, in the Friulian Dolomites and in the Julian Alps. In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a new offering deliberately combines hiking with alpine lakes. Along an extensive network of trails, the routes pass through varied landscapes, from dense forests and mountain pastures to high-alpine terrain, bringing the region's remarkable diversity to life.
The offering caters to a wide range of visitors, from experienced hikers and families to travelers seeking nature and relaxation away from the crowds, and combines breathtaking panoramas with biodiversity, history, and local traditions.
Hiking among Lakes, Valleys, and High Mountains
Around the alpine and mountain lakes of the region, a dense network of hiking tours extends through a wide variety of landscapes, from the mountain pastures of Carnia to the distinctive peaks of the Julian Alps, the Dolomite rock faces, and the gentler, easily accessible areas of the valleys and pre-alpine basins.
In the "Trekking and Lakes" section of the official portal, 19 selected routes are gathered:
These tours invite visitors to discover the mountain world at a leisurely pace, moving between glacial lakes, green hollows, mountain huts, and remarkable viewpoints in one of the most diverse alpine regions in Europe.
Along the alpine and pre-alpine arc of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, stretching from west to east, a correspondingly broad range of options is available. The routes differ considerably in elevation, length, and accessibility. Each trail provides concrete details on starting points, course, trail conditions, scenic highlights, and recommended equipment. This is complemented by information on mountain huts, maps, and trail signage.
Alpine scenery with a mountain lake and grazing meadows: typical landscape along many routes between Carnia and the Julian Alps. (Photo: © Luciano Gaudenzio)
The offering is supported by an app. It provides access to interactive maps with routes, detailed trail descriptions, photos, and practical tips. Personal tours can also be documented and shared with other outdoor enthusiasts.
Loop Trail around Lake Barcis: Between Water, Villages, and Gorge
For those looking for an easy yet scenically impressive route, the loop trail around Lake Barcis is an ideal choice. The route, along which the Giro d'Italia (stage Gemona–Piancavallo) also passes on May 30, runs around the well-known artificial lake created by the Ponte Antoi Dam .
It follows cycling and walking paths, boardwalks, and viewpoints along the Forra del Cellina gorge. The route passes through the village of Barcis, crosses meadows and deciduous forests, and includes a section of the Sentiero degli Alpini with views of the Caltea stream. A hike well suited to families and beginners alike.
Length: 5.6 km, Duration: approx. 2 hours, Elevation change: minimal
A high-altitude mountain lake in the Friulian Alps: the destination of many more challenging hikes, with sweeping views across the surrounding peaks.
Sauris: Between Mountain Pastures and Glacial Lakes
From Sauris di Sopra, a sweeping route leads to the Sella di Festons and across a high plateau dotted with mountain pastures and glacial lakes, with uninterrupted views of the Pesarine Dolomites. The path crosses pastures and mountain saddles such as Casera Festons, Malga Malino, Casera Vinadia Grande, and Forcella Pieltinis.
The route conveys a comprehensive picture of the mountain world around Sauris, with its wide horizons and characteristic alpine structures, and is better suited to experienced hikers.
Length: 10.1 km, Duration: 4 hrs. 10 min., Elevation gain: +861 m
Olbe Lakes: The High Plateau of Sappada
On the Olbe plateau, below the ridge running from Monte Righile to Monte Ferro, three glacial lakes nestle among grassy hillocks and alpine hollows. Particularly striking is the easternmost lake, with its intense green color reflecting the rock formations above.
The route requires good physical fitness and involves a demanding ascent, but rewards hikers with sweeping views and an unspoiled alpine landscape.
Length: 4.6 km, Duration: approx. 3 hours, Elevation gain: +937 m
A view across the gentle highlands of Friuli-Venezia Giulia: hiking trails wind through open mountain landscapes, connecting alpine pastures, lakes, and scenic viewpoints. (Photo: © Luciano Gaudenzio)
Tarond and Crasulina Lakes: High-Mountain Landscape with History
Among the most impressive routes is the loop trail to the Tarond and Crasulina lakes. The trail passes through open pastures, over grassy ridges, and across wide alpine expanses beneath the ridge between Monte Crostis and Zoufplan.
The two glacial lakes are fed by snowmelt and are surrounded by meadows and rhododendrons. Along the way, characteristic alpine plant species can be found alongside traces of World War I, lending the route an added historical dimension.
Length: 9 km, Duration: approx. 3 hrs. 30 min., Elevation change: just over 300 m, Difficulty: moderate
Sella Sompdogna Pond: Natural Setting with Historical Traces
Short, easy, and yet impressive, the route to the small lake of Sella Sompdogna begins after the drive up through Val Dogna at the pass parking area, leading through larch and fir forests to a small glacial lake that serves as habitat for various Amphibians and insects.
Here, too, nature and history intersect: along the route, remnants of World War I can be found, including trenches and fortifications. The "Fratelli Grego" refuge is also accessible from this trail, offering sweeping views of the Julian Alps.
Length: 2.2 km, Duration: approx. 50 minutes, Elevation gain: 123 m
A region with a wide range of hiking options
The five trails described here are representative of the full offering from PromoTurismoFVG. Taken together, they showcase a region where diverse landscape types, natural spaces, and historical elements come together.
The hiking trails make it possible to explore the mountain world step by step, whether the focus is on short day trips or longer excursions.
