Monte Lussari is amazing. This little village on top of a mountain is worth the trip. When I first heard about it, I, probably like most people, thought it was just another ski resort. The truth is, it is much more than that. People flock from all over Europe to visit this Hidden Gem, and all for differing reasons. In this Guide to Monte Lussari, I will try to cover them all.
Except Skiing, of course. This IS a Summer guide to Monte Lussari, after all.
Table of Contents
- Where is Monte Lussari?
- History of Monte Lussari
- How to get to Monte Lussari
- What to expect
- Where to stay
- Summary
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Where is Monte Lussari?
First up in this Guide to Monte Lussari we will cover where exactly it is located.
Monte Lussari is high in the mountains (1789m), located above the town of Tarvisio, in the most North Eastern reaches of Italy. It makes its home in the Province of Udine, in the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Even though the mountain is in Italy, it is also very close with the borders to both Slovenia and Austria.
History of Monte Lussari
The major history around Monte Lussari dates back to its origins in the 1300’s. Legend has it that a shepherd was tending his flock on the site. While searching for them, he located a number of them kneeling around a bush.
Upon inspection of the bush, he found a statue of the Madonna and child. He took the statue to a Priest in Camporosso and reported what had happened. The very next morning though, they found the statue, once again, at the exact same location with the sheep kneeling beside it. This repeated THREE times, before they decided to make a report of the findings to the Patriarch of Aquileia.
He immediately ordered a chapel to be built at the location.
Now, a church stands on the same site. It was built during the 1500’s to 1600’s. There is no trace of the original chapel, and no idea where it is now located.
The location has been a major pilgrimage destination for believers from all over the world ever since. In particular Italian, Slavic and German believers.
How to get to Monte Lussari
The best way to reach Monte Lussari is by car to Tarvisio, and then catch the cable car up the mountain to the tiny village. Major roads come into the area from all directions. For example, you can drive from Venice and it will only take around 2.5 hours. From the Bled area in Slovenia, it takes just over an hour. You can also drive from Villach in Austria, which only takes about half an hour.
There is the option to catch a train up to the nearby towns. This takes about 4.5 hours from Venice, which is also the nearest international airport.
What to expect
Once you arrive at Tarvisio, you will have to make the decision HOW you will want to get up the mountain to Monte Lussari. Many visitors are on a pilgrimage, and will opt to take the Pilgrim’s Trail. This is a 10km and rather arduous hike up the side of the mountain. It IS very scenic, however, and worth it if you are geared up for hiking.
The other option is to take the cable car. It will transport you from the town all the way to the very top (1789m). It takes 15 minutes, and costs 14 Euros. The views are AMAZING, so this is definitely the recommended option!
On top of the mountain you will find the Church and small village. If you are on a pilgrimage, then the Church is your final destination. If not, then it is certainly recommended to check it out anyway. There is some great history and a wonderful story surrounding it. (see above).
Otherwise, the village is all about the incredible views and relaxing in the cool mountain air. There are restaurants, cafes, a couple of stores and hotels at the top. The food is very good, and being so close to several borders, features cuisine from several different cultures.
In the Summer months you can even try paragliding from Monte Lussari. With the amazing views, it HAS to be one of the best locations in Europe to try it!
One thing that I love when in places like this, is to just find a nice, quiet place to sit and relax. At Monte Lussari you are in the perfect spot to do just that! Behind the church you will find a small trail that leads up to the very peak of the mountain. It is only a few minutes walk, but offers the very best views of the entire valley. It is the best place to sit, and just enjoy the absolute serenity that you can only find on top of a mountain.
If you bring your own picnic, it is probably the best place in Italy to enjoy it!
Where to stay
The closest town to Monte Lussari is Tarvisio. It is at the foot of the cable car, and is the best place to stay, particularly if you are wanting to get an early start for the hike to the top. Click the button below to see what is available in Tarvisio.
If you would like to narrow it down a little more, here are some top choices for places to stay in Tarvisio.
Hotel Haberl – A nice mountain style hotel right in the town center. It has a bus stop out front, and a restaurant/pizzeria.
Hotel Raibl Apartamenti – also located near the center and very highly rated.
Hotel Edelhof – Great location and highest ratings and best reviews in the area!
If you would like to stay on the peak of Monte Lussari, then check out the following links.
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Summary
I hope you have enjoyed my guide to Monte Lussari.
Monte Lussari is not just a Ski Resort. It is SO much more. (Although the ski run is pretty good!). This is a major Pilgrimage destination, and a hikers paradise. If you love mountains, and great views, then you cannot go wrong visiting Monte Lussari. It is worth the trip if you are nearby, and trust me, you DON’T want to miss out!
If you would like to see some more of my Guides and Itineraries, then click the button below for a quick peek!
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