Autumn in Friuli Venezia Giulia is full of surprises: forests painted in shades of red and gold, untouched valleys, and mountain landscapes that take your breath away. From alpine lakes to the Friulian Dolomites, this region offers the perfect backdrop for a fall weekend of hiking and nature.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are 10 stunning places to experience the foliage in Friuli Venezia Giulia, with hiking routes suggested by MIA, the AI-powered chat assistant from Mountain Maps.
With MIA, you can also get personalized trail recommendations based on the area you’d like to explore.
The 10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Friuli Venezia Giulia
1. Lake Fusine (Tarvisio)
One of the iconic spots in Friuli, the Fusine Lakes are nestled in the Julian Alps. In autumn, the surrounding forests reflect countless shades of color.
MIA’s recommended hike is a loop around both lakes, with panoramic views of Mount Mangart.
Click here to view the GPS track.
2. Val Resia
An unspoiled valley, famous for its traditions and pristine nature. In autumn, the beech and larch forests turn spectacular.
A must-do hike in this area is a 15 km loop around Cima Berto Pacifico.
Click here to view the GPS track.
3. Lake Sauris
Amid the Carnic Alps, the artificial Lake Sauris turns into a palette of colors in October. Its shores and the nearby villages create a truly unique atmosphere.
Here you’ll find a trail that connects Sauris di Sotto to Sauris di Sopra, with a stop along the lakeshore.
See the trail here.
4. Carnic Alps
The Carnic Alps are a mosaic of authentic landscapes, with wild valleys and views that blaze with color in autumn. Less known than the Dolomites, yet equally fascinating and rich in history.
The hike from Passo di Monte Croce Carnico up to Rifugio Marinelli offers spectacular views of the border ridges.
Find MIA’s recommended route here.
5.Valcellina and Lake Barcis
Valcellina is a wild valley, made famous by its canyon and Lake Barcis. In autumn, the contrast between the turquoise water and the golden foliage is unforgettable.
Recommended hike: walk along Lake Barcis.
See the trail here.
6. Friulan Dolomites– Forni di Sopra
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this corner of the Friulian Dolomites is simply stunning. In October, the forests glow in shades of red and yellow beneath the Dolomite spires.
MIA recommends a hike from Forni di Sopra to Rifugio Giaf, surrounded by larches and dramatic peaks.
Check out the trail here.
7. Lake Cornino
A small glacial lake known for its emerald-green waters and its griffon vulture reserve. In autumn, the foliage creates a truly magical atmosphere.
One of the most beautiful routes here is the nature trail inside the Cornino Lake Nature Reserve.
If you’d like to explore it, check out the GPS track here.
8. Mount Zoncolan
Famous in the cycling world, Mount Zoncolan transforms in autumn, offering authentic landscapes, alpine pastures, and forests painted in vibrant colors.
The loop hike connecting Mount Arvenis and Zoncolan, with sweeping views over Carnia, is an experience not to be missed.
Find MIA’s recommended route here.
9. Val Tramontina and Lake Redona
A little-visited valley that, in autumn, surprises with its colors and peaceful atmosphere. Lake Tramonti reflects the surrounding forests, creating unique scenery.
The suggested route is a loop trail around Lake Tramonti.
Here you’ll find the trail recommended by MIA.
10. Mount Lussari (Tarvisio)
A fairytale village perched on the summit, reachable by cable car or on foot. In autumn, the forests around Mount Lussari turn into a breathtaking display of colors.
Recommended hike: from Camporosso up to Rifugio Monte Lussari.
Find the trail here.
Fall foliage in Friuli Venezia Giulia is an experience that combines authentic nature and mountain traditions. From alpine lakes to the Friulian Dolomites, each destination offers unique emotions and unforgettable views. With these 10 itineraries, you can enjoy autumn through colorful forests and scenic hikes.
Pack your backpack and let MIA guide you to the trails in the area you’d like to explore. The magic of autumn in Friuli Venezia Giulia is waiting for you!
Credits: naturanomade.it, italia.it, turismofvg.it, flickr.it, fornidisopra.it, turistaaduepassidacasa.it, friulioggi.it, cicloweb.net, italiantraditions.it
