{"id":36513,"date":"2025-12-30T15:04:11","date_gmt":"2025-12-30T14:04:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/friuli-the-other-dolomites\/"},"modified":"2026-06-21T10:11:32","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T08:11:32","slug":"friuli-the-other-dolomites","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/friuli-venezia-giulia\/friuli-the-other-dolomites\/","title":{"rendered":"Friuli, the Other Dolomites"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Friuli: Hiking from Forni di Sopra &amp; Sauris<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In early September, I drove into the mountains toward Forni di Sopra. It immediately felt different from the familiar Dolomites: quieter, friendlier, less touristy.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a few days, I hiked above the tree line near Mount Varmost, explored the cultural mountain village of Sauris (Zahre)\u2014with its own language and traditions\u2014and cycled along the Tagliamento River to its confluence with the Fella. And let\u2019s not forget: I sampled the delicious local cuisine.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is Friuli as I experienced it: tranquility, nature, mountain culture, and a river that connects it all.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29032\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7088-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - reflection in a lake\" class=\"wp-image-29032\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29013\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_6871-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - small terrace with 2 chairs - at the top of the lift\" class=\"wp-image-29013\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29094\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7427-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Tagliamento River\" class=\"wp-image-29094\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Friuli at a Glance  <\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The area is ideal for hikers seeking peace and quiet, and for those who want to combine nature with culture and excellent cuisine. You\u2019re not far from the border with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/category\/slovenia\/\" data-type=\"category\" data-id=\"82\">Slovenia<\/a><\/strong>. I was there in early September, and it was clearly the end of the season. We ran into a lone hiker, and the weather was generally great for hiking and biking.     <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The region\u2014officially known as Friuli-Venezia-Giulia (in northeastern Italy)\u2014is a somewhat lesser-known region, but it has so much to offer.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>My base camps: Forni di Sopra (907 m) &amp; Sauris\/Zahre (1,212 m)  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29030\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7065-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra\" class=\"wp-image-29030\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29033\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7108-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - E-bike Tour\" class=\"wp-image-29033\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29024\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_6980-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - side-leaved gentian\" class=\"wp-image-29024\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fornidi-sopra\">Forni di Sopra: Mount Varmost and the Giro delle Malghe<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Forni di Sopra is located in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area boasts rich biodiversity thanks to its location in a sunny valley surrounded by forests and high mountains. Perfect for nature lovers and <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/groene-reistips\/wat-is-duurzaam-reizen\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4372\"><strong>sustainable tourism<\/strong><\/a>. The landscape is varied, featuring centuries-old cultures and diverse topographies.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The residents are proud of what nature provides them. They organize events such as the \u201cFesta delle Erbe di Primavera\u201d in the spring and the \u201cFesta dei Funghi\u201d in the fall to highlight the importance of biodiversity. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29026\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7003-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - cows at the malga\" class=\"wp-image-29026\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29022\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_6965-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - Guide\" class=\"wp-image-29022\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29014\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_6882-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Tre Cime in the distance\" class=\"wp-image-29014\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Forni di Sopra, I hiked with a guide to Mount Varmost (1,758 m)\u2014also known as Clap Varmost. The area is becoming an increasingly attractive hiking destination due to the receding snowline. The village itself also offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We took the chairlift up and hiked the Giro delle Malghe. It\u2019s a beautiful route that\u2019s perfectly manageable if you\u2019re in reasonably good shape. In some places, you can see the famous Tre Cime, but to me, this area itself is just as impressive as the \u201cbetter-known\u201d Dolomites.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At a mountain hut along the route, volunteers served coffee with homemade cake, and we had lunch at a lovely spot in a valley surrounded by mountains. Lunch at Rifugio Casera Tartoi. You can also stay overnight here (open practically all year round and equipped with electric blankets).  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29104\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/0103345e-44c4-4f76-81ce-2dc6bcd48ef0-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - Cake\" class=\"wp-image-29104\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"799\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29107\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/efaaccb8-5f00-4131-af46-62a22f361925-799x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - Butterfly\" class=\"wp-image-29107\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29100\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/5c6c78a6-9a7e-44fc-a5c7-5fc2f9da6594-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - coffee along the way\" class=\"wp-image-29100\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the afternoon, I explored Forni di Sopra by bike (yes, an e-bike) and cycled around the Tagliamento River, with a few steep climbs along the way.  <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Forni di Sopra: Energy-Independent<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fornidisopra.it\/scopri\/forni-di-sopra-perla-alpina\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.fornidisopra.it\/scopri\/forni-di-sopra-perla-alpina\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Energy production in Forni di Sopra<\/a> comes from two hydroelectric power plants, a solar power system, and a biomass power plant. It is the only municipality in Friuli-Venezia-Giulia that is energy-independent. For heating, part of the energy demand is met by the local biomass power plant. It is a forward-thinking municipality in the energy sector, relying entirely on renewable sources thanks to the collaboration between the Forni di Sopra hydroelectric cooperative and the municipality. Forni di Sopra has only 900 permanent residents but generates enough energy for 2,000.    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sauris (Zahre), hike to the rifugio and dark sky<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Forni di Sopra, I continued on to Sauris, at an elevation of 1,212 meters (about 35 kilometers). It\u2019s a particularly charming mountain village with its own language. Incidentally, this is the Carnic Alps, not the Dolomites.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I did part of the Sentiero A2 hike. This uphill hike is fairly easy, as it\u2019s mostly on paved roads. The area is also very popular with birdwatchers. At the top, another lovely spot for a (light) lunch awaited me at <a href=\"https:\/\/explorerfvg.com\/luoghi\/rifugi\/rifugio-eimblatribm\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/explorerfvg.com\/luoghi\/rifugi\/rifugio-eimblatribm\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rifugio Eimblateribn<\/a>.     <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29039\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7191-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - Eimblateribn Mountain Hut\" class=\"wp-image-29039\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29038\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7181-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - Mountain Scenery and More\" class=\"wp-image-29038\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29099\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/2d720989-c574-4d14-96f0-2b834333ce9d-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Sauris - herbal drinks\" class=\"wp-image-29099\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sauris is a perfect place for <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/groene-reistips\/dark-sky-europa\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"25845\"><strong>stargazing<\/strong><\/a>. Low air pollution and minimal light pollution. The area is also popular with motorcyclists because of its beautiful, winding route. In the afternoon, it was time to explore some local crafts. In addition to Wolf\u2019s famous ham factory, Sauris has a small museum dedicated to woodworking. I spent the night in Sauris at an \u201calbergo diffuso,\u201d where you stay in accommodations scattered throughout the village.       <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29088\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7300-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - Woodworking Museum\" class=\"wp-image-29088\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29090\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7324-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - Wood Museum Mask\" class=\"wp-image-29090\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29036\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7160-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - hiking trail - tractor\" class=\"wp-image-29036\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Tagliamento as a wild common thread  <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cycling along the Tagliamento  <\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two well-known cycling routes, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.turismofvg.it\/en\/bike\/fvg6-tagliamento-river-cycle-route-c600?LangSetCMS=en\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.turismofvg.it\/en\/bike\/fvg6-tagliamento-river-cycle-route-c600?LangSetCMS=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FVG6<\/a> and the FVG1, that run along the Tagliamento River. I started in Cavazzo Carnico and rode part of the route along the Tagliamento to where it joins the Fella.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I made a brief stop at Trasaghis on Lago di Cavazzo, also known as Lago dei Tre Comuni. There\u2019s a beautiful cycling and hiking trail around the lake. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29094\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7427-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Tagliamento River\" class=\"wp-image-29094\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" data-id=\"29093\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7390-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Lago di Cavazzo - Hiking and Biking Trail\" class=\"wp-image-29093\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7390-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7390-980x551.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7390-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29092\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7370-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Cavazzo - Trasaghis\" class=\"wp-image-29092\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Venzone and the FVG1  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Venzone, we stopped for a quick cup of coffee. It\u2019s a charming and historically significant village that was completely rebuilt in its original style after the 1976 earthquake. It\u2019s also one of the \u201cborghi pi\u00f9 belli d\u2019Italia\u201d (most beautiful villages in Italy). And, not to be overlooked: it\u2019s also located along the Alps-Adriatic FVG1 cycling route.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.explorefriuli.com\/venzone-gemona\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">take a guided tour of Venzone and nearby Gemona<\/a>. You\u2019ll hear fascinating stories about the historical significance and resilience of these villages.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29096\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7450-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Venzone - Central Piazza\" class=\"wp-image-29096\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29095\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7449-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Venzone - Earthquake Sign\" class=\"wp-image-29095\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29098\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7470-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Venzone - Bicycle Route\" class=\"wp-image-29098\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical Guide to Hikes  <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Mount Varmost &amp; Giro delle Malghe (Forni di Sopra)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Level: intermediate (more accessible with a lift)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why go: alpine meadows, mountain huts, views, lunch at a malga  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip: Bring extra layers and keep an eye on the weather forecast; it can still be chilly and windy up there, even in early September.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Route: the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.turismofvg.it\/en\/active\/ring-of-the-malghe-di-forni-di-sopra-short-version\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.turismofvg.it\/en\/active\/ring-of-the-malghe-di-forni-di-sopra-short-version\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Giro delle Malghe<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Trail A2 to Rifugio Eimblateribn (Sauris)<\/strong>  <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Level: intermediate  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do it: You really \u201cwalk right into\u201d Sauris, with a rifugio as your natural destination.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip: Don&#8217;t start too late, so you&#8217;ll still have time to explore the village at a leisurely pace after the hike.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Route: Click here for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sauris.org\/en\/pristine-nature\/trails\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.sauris.org\/en\/pristine-nature\/trails\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>all hiking trails in Sauris<\/strong><\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Tagliamento Bike Tour (Cavazzo Carnico to the confluence with the Fella)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Level: easy to moderate (depending on pace and terrain)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do it: Here, you\u2019ll understand why the Tagliamento is the common thread running through Friuli  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip: Bring your swimsuit if it&#8217;s warm and you find a safe spot near the water (watch out for currents and unstable banks).  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bonus if you stay longer:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parcodolomitifriulane.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/TruiDaiSclops_PNDF_ENG.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.parcodolomitifriulane.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/TruiDaiSclops_PNDF_ENG.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Truoi dai Sclops<\/a><\/strong>: the Gentian Trail. A more challenging route for experienced hikers. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.valbinon.it\/Valbinon_wp\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.valbinon.it\/Valbinon_wp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Val Binon<\/a><\/strong>: wild, rugged, and peaceful  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lago di Sauris Loop: easier. On foot or by mountain bike (great for golden hour). <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29021\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_6949-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Alpine Pasture Tour - sign\" class=\"wp-image-29021\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29091\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7327-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sauris - Wood Museum Masks\" class=\"wp-image-29091\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29034\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_7132-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Friuli - Forni di Sopra - Ciariei Liqueur\" class=\"wp-image-29034\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The highlights: You won&#8217;t want to miss this<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forni di Sopra as a peaceful base for hiking with lift access to higher elevations  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sky Safari: Stargazing in Sauris, Away from Light Pollution (a surprisingly beautiful finale)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sauris\/Zahre: Culture, Woodworking, Museum, and Local Traditions  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Tagliamento: Cycling Along a River That Still Has Plenty of &#8220;Space&#8221;  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Venzone &amp; Gemona: the perfect stops to connect your mountain trip with the valley  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read here about the (locally organized) <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/category\/friuli-venezia-giulia\/\" data-type=\"category\" data-id=\"172\"><strong>bike tour from the Dolomites to Trieste<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Here&#8217;s how to get there  <\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>By car: it&#8217;s over 1,000 kilometers from the Netherlands<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public transportation: If you\u2019re short on time, taking a shuttle from Trieste to Forni di Sopra is the best option. If you\u2019d like to use more public transportation, combine your trip with a stop in Udine (by train) and continue by bus toward the mountains (tip: <a href=\"https:\/\/tplfvg.it\/it\/servizi\/urbani\/urbano-udine\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/tplfvg.it\/it\/servizi\/urbani\/urbano-udine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">check the schedule in advance<\/a>, as buses run infrequently).   <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Travel tip (slow): Add a few extra days to your trip and take it easy (stay longer in one place). Friuli is perfect for slow travel.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Stay  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forni di Sopra: Due Cime Hotel  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sauris: albergo diffuso (staying &#8220;in&#8221; the village)  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best time to visit<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My trip was in early September, which I personally think is ideal: the weather is often stable for hiking, it\u2019s less crowded than in the height of summer, and it gets dark early enough in the evening to stargaze. The villages do feel a bit deserted, though, so if you prefer a livelier atmosphere, June and July might be better.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: Please be aware of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fornidolomiti.it\/seggiovie-varmost\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.fornidolomiti.it\/seggiovie-varmost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">lifts&#8217; operating days<\/a>, as they close in early September<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sustainability Tips (Small but Effective)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stay on the trails (especially near riverbanks and mountain meadows).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Buy local (Malagasy lunch, village products) instead of grabbing a quick meal at the supermarket.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plan some downtime: moving around less means less impact and a richer experience.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring a reusable bottle and a small trash bag (especially handy on long days).  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Packing List for Early September<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hiking<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Broken-in hiking boots (preferably with good traction)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiking Socks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiking poles (great for going downhill)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Daypack (20\u201330L) + rain cover  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Basic First Aid (blister bandages)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read more here about our tips for your <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wandelreizen\/wandelvakantie-europa\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wandelreizen\/wandelvakantie-europa\/\"><strong>walking vacation in Europe<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Clothing (layers!)<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quick-drying shirt + long-sleeve shirt  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fleece or a thin down jacket  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raincoat (and possibly rain pants)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long hiking pants  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Thin beanie\/buff + lightweight gloves (for windy weather\/evenings)  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For Sky Safari \/ Evening<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Headlamp (the red light mode is especially nice)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An extra warm layer (it gets cold quickly in the mountains)  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Cycling<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sunglasses + sunscreen  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lightweight windbreaker (mornings\/bridges along the river)  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Useful<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Power Bank  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offline maps (Komoot\/AllTrails) or paper maps  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Waterproof pouches for phones\/cameras  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Friuli on the map<\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1GGMGAiCrjeOxZOvhxY9hDWSx5nKcOpk&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Friuli: Hiking from Forni di Sopra &amp; Sauris In early September, I drove into the mountains toward Forni di Sopra. It immediately felt different from the familiar Dolomites: quieter, friendlier, less touristy. For a few days, I hiked above the tree line near Mount Varmost, explored the cultural mountain village of Sauris (Zahre)\u2014with its own [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":34610,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[278,222,212,191],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-36513","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-friuli-venezia-giulia","category-italy","category-road-trips","category-hiking-tours"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36513","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36513"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36513\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34610"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36513"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36513"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36513"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}