Ride in the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia

You probably heard of Tarvisio — a small Italian town situated on the tri-border of Austria, Italy and Slovenia. It lies under the Predil Pass, right next to the famous Mangart Saddle, offering one of the most picturesque cycling routes in this part of the Julian Alps.

The route might remind you of the Stelvio Pass, but with a slightly shorter climb. Go ahead, and add it to your list of must-visit destinations.

We start our trip in Tarvisio where the road takes us around the local golf course and then through many small, almost abandoned villages. The start isn't as innocent as it looks at first sight and you will feel a slight climb from the very beginning and for the next 20km.

After the beginning stage we chose to take a gentler route that passes the lake Lago del Predil. There is much less traffic than on the road leading to the Predil Pass. Part of the road has been fixed and while cycling on the smooth tarmac you will start to see beautiful scenes of the mountain ranges cradling the glacial lake.

About half way into the route you will find that the road takes two amazing S-shaped curves, which will offer an adrenalin fix when you're cornering those turns on the way back. Reaching the 1000m altitude, we can definitely feel the fresh air. The sun is shining, but the curve of the road often takes us from the sun into the shade.

We soon catch a glimpse of the mighty Mount Kanin with its defining cube-like shape. It's early morning and while the road is still wrapped in shade, the peaks of Mount Kanin are already bathing in sunshine.

Just below Kanin lays a small abandoned village called Sella Nevea, which springs back to life in the winter once the ski lifts start running again. During other parts of the year, however, you will find a unique sense of calm here.

We decide to finish the stage on the Jôf di Montasio plateau, which can only be conquered after an excruciating 6km climb. In 2013 this was one of the final stages of the famous Giro d'Italia. Soon after taking the turn you will find a steep climb with short and sharp turns that will reach up to an 20% incline. This is a real treat for those who want a challenge and like to feel their legs burn.

Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a truly magnificent view of the Jôf di Montasio plateau. This is one of the most spectacular views of the Slovenian part of the Julian Alps. But don't take our word for it. We will let the photos do the talking.

At the top you will also find a cheese monger with a wide selection of cheese, as well as freshly prepared food, drinks and even home-made beer. You won't regret it.

Even if you prefer to have lunch at home, don't miss an opportunity to enjoy a proper Italian cappuccino at a café near the Lago del Predil while taking in the scenery and basking in the glory of today's route. The road back to Tarvisio is less spectacular, but offers a constant decline next to the river into the valley.

Article: Matic Ramuš, Life2Follow
Photos: Life2Follow