Winter parks: excursions in the Friulian Dolomites and the Julian Prealps

The Friulian Dolomites, protected by a park of the same name covering approximately 37,000 hectares, are considered the most unspoilt part of the entire Dolomite range due to the high degree of wilderness they still retain. This makes them a paradise for hikers and mountaineers, Nordic walking enthusiasts and free climbers. Their peaks, which resemble church spires and bell towers, reflect the colours of the sunset and are a popular subject for photographers. There are no settlements or paved roads within the park, and it is off-limits to vehicles. 

The Julian Prealps Park, on the other hand, is more populated, and one of its defining features is the balance between people and nature that has evolved over the centuries. The park is of considerable geological, environmental and scenic interest. Within a short distance of each other, characteristic fluvial landscapes are juxtaposed with typical glacial formations, and while perfectly preserved ancient glacial arches are clearly visible in the upper parts of the valleys, numerous gorges and waterfalls in the valley bottoms create spectacular rapids and cascades. However, the most distinctive feature of the area is the convergence of three different biogeographical regions – Mediterranean, Illyrian and Alpine – which together contribute to an extraordinary biodiversity that is reflected in a particularly rich and varied flora and fauna. 

The two parks organise a number of excursions during the winter season, allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent natural landscapes and discover their unique characteristics. Walking with "ciaspe", traditional snowshoes, is the best way to get around on snow-covered trails in the tranquil winter woods. These excursions are suitable for everyone, including families, and are always very varied: scenic snowshoe walks to admire the spectacle of the mountains, nature walks to observe the winter flora and fauna, walks at dusk to enjoy the magical colours or in the stillness of the night by moonlight with the help of torches. 

The parks also offer more challenging activities for the physically fit. These include ski mountaineering, which offers a unique experience for those who want to connect with nature and enjoy it with zero impact on the environment: no ski lifts are needed to practise this sport, and Friuli Venezia Giulia offers a wide range of routes.