Definitely an intense stage, although without technical difficulties. It is characterized by important mileage and significant height difference, both uphill and downhill, to overcome two passes: Sella delle Cave and Sella Prasnig.
The effort is generously rewarded by the beautiful view of the majestic Jof Fuart (2,666 m), one of the symbols of the Julian Alps.
The length of the stage must not be underestimated: the less trained ones can break it by staying overnight at the Rifugio Pellarini, reachable in about 45 minutes from Sella Prasnig, continuing transversally southwards.
Risk of ticks.
The only water point available is in Cave del Predil.
After a long stretch on an asphalted road slightly uphill, we skirt Lago del Predil on the western side, passing close to Forte Lago Predil (which houses the Tarvisian Civic Museums). Shortly after, we arrive at the village of Cave del Predil where you can visit the Mines Museum. Here we take the uphill path (approx. 400 m height difference ) towards Sella delle Cave, from where a steep descent leads us to the plain of Rio Freddo.
After passing the river, a second longer ascent (about 500 m height difference) takes us towards Cima delle Rondini, which goes around on a path in a traverse. Once you reach the second pass (Prasnig), anyone wishing to stop can turn southward without losing altitude, and cross until they reach Rifugio Luigi Pellarini. Otherwise, we quickly descend towards Val Saisera dominated by the imposing mass of Jof Fuart (2,666 m).
Upon reaching the valley floor, we meet the interesting "Abschnitt-Saisera" Theme Park dedicated to the Great War. Finally, traveling northward through the valley we soon arrive at the village of Valbruna.
Julius Kugy often stayed in Valbruna. He was an eclectic mountaineer of the early 20th century, champion of the Julian Alps, very much in love with the area: he opened more than 50 new climbing routes.
Particularly memorable is his first ascent to the feared north face of Jôf di Montasio (2.754 m). He was among the last interpreters of a pure and romantic mountaineering, a kind of exploration mountaineering, between the 19th and 20th centuries.
His great passion for the mountains coexisted with his passion for writing, music and ... botany: in many of his explorations he went in search of the Scabiosa Trenta, a mythical plant that turned out to be just a myth.
The Forest Sound Track is a path that leads you through the resonant spruce trees of Val Saisera, the trees of the "sounding wood": this raw material is used by luthiers from all over the world to create musical instruments of the highest quality, in particular violins.
During the period of June the forest is filled with music, thanks to the Festival delle Risonanze (Resonance Festival): not to be missed, if you are nearby.
The Montasio cheese was created in the nearby homonymous plateau; there are evidences of its production as early as 1200, at the Abbey of Moggio Udinese.
The Bruna Alpina, Rossa Friulana and Italian Frisona cattle have been climbing for centuries on these highlands, places of shepherds, herdsmen and cheesemakers.
Montasio cheese is available in various ripening stages: fresh, medium and old. The latter is strong, but not pungent: a cheese to taste.
Rifugio Casa Alpina Julius Kugy, in Valbruna. Tel. +39 0428 871860
In Valbruna there are several hotels.
Va' Sentiero is a grassroot project, thanks to the spontaneous contribution oft housands of people.
Even the most complicated dream, a 7,000km uphill dream,
can be achieved... together.
Grazie!
