The Alpe Adria walking and cycling trail links Austria in the north at Salzburg and Villach and winds through the heart of Friuli Venezia Julia to the Adriatic coast at Grado. This mountains to the sea route, on well-constructed paths, has opened up the territory once colonised by the Romans, more recently ruled by the Austro-Hungarian empire and now returned to Italy and Slovenia so walkers and cyclists can explore the wealth of history and culture while enjoying the beautiful landscapes.

Bunkers, tunnels and gun placements from World War l are a striking contrast to the charming medieval towns and villages along the way. There are great wines to be tasted in the Collio region before you arrive at the Adriatic Sea and the classic city of Trieste, a jewel of Roman, Medieval and Venetian architecture.

Your Journey

Day 1

Arrive Udine, capital of the Friuli Venezia Julia region.

Day 2 Udine – Cividale

Take time to explore Udine’s medieval city centre with its castle and backdrop of mountains. Take the train or bike to Cividale, a treasure trove of art and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 Cividale – Breg Golo Brdo (13 km)

Walk in the harmonious countryside of Brdo where figs, grapes and lemons can be seen everywhere. Enjoy a wine-tasting at a typical farm.

Day 4 Breg Golo Brdo – Smartno - Cormons

Option to take a longer hilly route (26 or 15.7 km) which can be shortened by taking out an initial hill climb, or transfer to Smartno and walk an easy trail through the Collio vineyards. Smartno is a highlight with its five fortress towers still in-tact.

Day 5 Cormons – Gradisca d’Isonzo (19.5 km)

From the highest hills of this charming landscape catch sight of the summits of the Julian Alps and in the distance the Dolomites. Pass picturesque wine villages enroute to medieval Cormons.

Day 6 Gradisca d’Isonzo - Doberdo – Trieste (15 km)

With the Adriatic in view walk a Karst landscape to Doberdo village. Transfer to lively Trieste.

Day 7 Trieste (10 km)

Morning promenade walk to the magnificent 19th century castle of Miramare built on a promontory on the sea. Afternoon walking tour of Trieste with highlights Plaza Unita and San Justo.

Day 8

Arrangements end.