Julian Prealps Nature Park: record-breaking biodiversity

In the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia lies one of Italy's most precious treasures of biodiversity. The Julian Prealps Natural Park is located in the province of Udine and covers over 10,000 hectares, including the municipalities of Lusevera, Moggi Udinese, Resia, Resiutta, Chiusaforte, and Venzone.

Here, the Alps meet the Mediterranean climate, creating an unprecedented mosaic of habitats for animal and plant populations. In fact, the park is famous for its natural wealth, with over 1,000 species of plants and fauna including deer, roe deer, and chamois. The area is recognized as a site of Community importance and a special protection area.

The geographical position of these mountains is probably the most distinctive feature that sets them apart. It is located at the meeting point between the Eastern Alps and the Balkans, along an ecological corridor where many animals walk and where many plant species from different areas grow. This is what explains its exceptional biodiversity, and it is considered a natural laboratory of evolution and lactation.

The most picturesque routes, leading to spectacular views of the Prealps peaks, are those that cross Val Resia, which is also famous for its unique language and culture. In addition to this, there are also trails leading to the high altitudes of Monte Canin and Monte Plauris, which are natural terraces overlooking the entire Friuli region and beyond.

The park is therefore also a land of traditions, as well as unspoiled nature. It preserves traditions, folk songs, and authentic cuisine. Visiting the Julian Prealps does not only mean immersing yourself in nature, but also immersing yourself in a different world, a world apart, which we are all ready to discover. It is a corner of Europe that is still intact, ready to be discovered by anyone who visits the Julian Prealps.

Photo credits: Joadl - Licensed by CC 4.0