When you think of Italy, images of Rome’s iconic Colosseum, Venice’s winding canals, or Tuscany’s sun-kissed rolling hills might immediately spring to mind. However, there’s an enchanting hidden gem that often escapes the spotlight and remains a well-guarded secret among discerning travelers: Friuli Venezia Giulia. This captivating northeastern region of Italy is a veritable treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences that left the participants of The Grand Escape Italy/Slovenia spellbound.
Friuli… where?
An adventure across borders
Friuli Venezia Giulia’s unique geographical position at the crossroads of Latin, Germanic, and Slavic cultures has shaped its identity into a fascinating cultural mosaic.
The region’s linguistic diversity is particularly noteworthy. While Italian is the official language, you’ll also hear Friulian, a Romance language with Celtic influences, spoken widely. In some areas, you might even encounter Slovenian or German dialects, testament to the region’s position as a cultural melting pot. It’s no coincidence that Gorizia (Italy) and Nova Gorica (Slovenia) have been jointly named European Capital of Culture for 2025. This unique cross-border collaboration perfectly embodies the spirit of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Frico or nothing
Friuli Venezia Giulia’s cuisine is equally diverse, blending Italian, Austrian, and Slavic flavors. Local specialties like frico, prosciutto di San Daniele, and Montasio cheese reflect the region’s culinary heritage. The area is also renowned for its wines, particularly the crisp white wines of the Collio region.
But the night before departing for The Grand Escape, there’s only one dish you must try: Frico. A potato, cheese, and onion cake with endless variations, but one you must try at least once in your life.
Udine: Your Starting Point
Your adventure begins in Udine, a charming medieval town that exudes a captivating Venetian flair. This city, deeply steeped in centuries of rich history, yet simultaneously buzzing with vibrant contemporary culture and art, serves as the perfect launchpad for your journey of discovery. Udine’s cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and stunning architecture provide a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage setting the stage for the remarkable experiences that await you in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
The Tagliamento: Europe’s Last Wild River
Just a short and scenic ride from Udine, you’ll encounter the Tagliamento, the last wild river in Europe. This natural wonder is a testament to the raw beauty of untamed nature. Its crystal-clear waters, fed by Alpine springs, dance and sparkle under the Italian sun, while its unique, braided riverbed creates a spectacle that’s hard to forget.
As your journey progresses, you’ll have the opportunity to cross the Tagliamento river multiple times, witnessing firsthand how it changes along its course, from the powerful rush of its upper reaches to the serene meanders of its lower course
A Cyclist’s Paradise… if you know it
For those who love to explore on two wheels, Friuli Venezia Giulia is nothing short of a dream come true for bikepackers and cycling enthusiasts. The population is distributed throughout its territory, so there’s an extensive network of little-used roads in truly exceptional places. These are old roads that once connected villages, some long abandoned but still serving as connecting points for those that still exist. This is why it takes a lot of patience to find the right combination to create a route that is manageable but doesn’t sacrifice the beauty that Friuli has to offer. For you, this isn’t a problem: The Grand Escape route has been tested and retested specifically for this purpose.
The Alpe Adria: A Railway Turned Cycling Heaven
Picture yourself pedaling for an astounding 60 uninterrupted kilometers on a path meticulously carved out of an old railway line. The Alpe Adria trail offers precisely this unique experience, whisking you away from the serene lowlands to the breathtaking heights of the Julian Alps in what seems like the blink of an eye.
Along the way, you’ll encounter hidden waterfalls cascading down moss-covered cliffs, rock-carved canyons and charming restaurants housed in restored old railway stations. The perfect opportunity to refuel and immerse yourself in local flavors while soaking in the unique atmosphere of these repurposed historical landmarks.
Crossing the borders
An excellent example of everything you’ve just read about the landscapes is in the last border crossing before concluding The Grand Escape Italy/Slovenia. You’ll be on a height that will allow you to see the entire territory in a 360-degree view. From the sea in the distance, to the mountains behind you, to the hills, and finally Udine. Stop for a moment on the panoramic bench, eat something, and take a deep breath: the only sound you’ll hear is that of the trees and the birds that inhabit them.
Returning to Udine after The Grand Escape will only make you want to start all over again, as has happened to those who have done it in previous editions. If you want to learn more, you can find the guide on thegrandescape.cc with the highlights of the route.
Experience It Yourself
If your curiosity has been piqued and your sense of adventure stirred by what you’ve read, we have exciting news for you. You have the opportunity to explore this enchanting region yourself during The Grand Escape Italy/Slovenia, scheduled for June 21, 2025. This meticulously planned adventure will take you through the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia, allowing you to experience firsthand the magic we’ve described and so much more. Mark your calendars and set a reminder, because registrations for this once-in-a-lifetime journey open on January 13th. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary adventure!
