Four slow days dedicated to the culture, history and landscape of the Natisone Valleys between visits to museums, churches and walks.
- The Marian Sanctuary of CASTELMONTE/STARA GORA
- SMO, landscape and narrative museum
- The ANTRO CAVE; nature, art and myth
- Mount MATAJUR, the symbol of the Natisone Valleys
- CIVIDALE DEL FRIULI, the land of the Lombards
- SELF DRIVE with own or rental car
PROGRAM:
DAY 1: Arrival in Benečija - The Natisone Valleys
Individual arrival in the Natisone Valleys and accommodation in the PREPOTTO / CASTELMONTE area.
Free time for a walk to the Sanctuary of Castelmonte/Stara Gora, also known as the Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Castelmonte/Stara Gora, is one of the oldest and most venerated Marian shrines in Italy. Located in the municipality of Prepotto/Prapotno, it stands on a hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. Or up to Mount Spig/Špik, a mountain in the Julian Pre-Alps known for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities. On the slopes of Mount Spig/Špik stands the small church of St. Nicholas, dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari, patron saint of children, sailors and travelers.
Dinner at a local agritourism.
ACCOMMODATION ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACILITIES:
- Casa Vacanze La Stele in Castelmonte/Stara Gora
- Tinello di San Urbano in Prepotto/Prapotno
DAY 2: Let's discover the Natisone Valleys
Breakfast and overnight stay.
In the morning visit to the SMO | landscape and narrative museum. It represents an important cultural and historical center located in the town of San Pietro al Natisone/Špeter. This museum is dedicated to the cultural landscape of the Slovenian peoples of the border area and does not follow the logic of collection, but that of narrative.The museum is easily accessible and offers guided tours that take visitors through the different sections.
Continuation of the tour with a stop for lunch at leisure.
In the afternoon: visit to the Antro Cave, a natural wonder located near San Pietro al Natisone/Špeter. It is famous for its special location, a not very large cave that enters deep into the mountain. Distinguished by the beauty of the limestone formations. Due to its geological and naturalistic importance, the Antro Cave is subject to safety rules for entry and to have the best possible experience during the visit.
Gubana tasting: at Dorbolò Gubane you wil lhave the chance to taste the typical cake of the Natisone Valleys.
Return to the hotel.
Dinner in a local trattoria.
DAY 3: Let's keep on discovering the Natisone Valleys
Breakfast and overnight stay.
Today we suggest a pleasant nature hike on Mount Matajur, a mountain located on the Friuli-Slovenia border, along a circular hiking route with varying elevation differences from 300 to 1400 meters. This route is particularly renowned for its spectacular panoramic views and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the unspoiled nature of the Julian Pre-Alps. It represents an exceptional experience for nature lovers and hikers, offering spectacular views, biodiversity and a direct connection to the history of the region. Return in the late afternoon.
Packed lunch.
Return to the hotel.
Dinner in a local agritourism.
DAY 4: CIVIDALE DEL FRIULI - Goodbye, Benečija!
Breakfast.
Departure for Cividale del Friuli for some free time in this important picturesque city located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It was founded by the Romans around 50 BC as Forum Iulii and has a rich and fascinating history reflected in its architecture, traditions and surrounding natural beauty. The city is enlivened by numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Among the most famous is the Palio di San Donato, in memory of medieval traditions. During the summer, Cividale del Friuli also hosts concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions that attract visitors from all over the region. Entrance and audio-guided tour of the Lombard Temple ("Tempietto Longobardo") consisting of a square-based hall with a cross vault that closes with a lower chancel divided by pairs of columns into a three-bay arcade with parallel barrel vaults.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
PRICE per person:
- from € 425 (min. 2 people) with accomoation at Casa Vacanze La Stele in Castelmonte/Stara Gora
- from € 480 (min. 2 people) with accommodation at Agriturismo Tinello San Urbano in Prepotto/Prapotno