The valley floor trails in Arta Terme are perfect for discovering Carnia between nature, history and thermal relaxation:
In brief
Where: Arta Terme (UD), in the Carnic Alps, valley of the But stream.
Trail network: 16 loop trails (approx. 40 km in total), with low altitude differences (400-660 m above sea level), ideal for families and walkers.
Themes: Roman history (Julia Augusta), lush nature, Alpine traditions.
Unmissable routes
Tròi di Davosàs
Length: 3 km (easy).
Focus: Oak woods and views of the But stream.
Tròi di Gjatòns
Length: 4 km (medium difficulty).
Focus: Historical mule tracks and legends about ‘wild cats’ (symbol of the thorny vegetation).
Tròi di Neàries
Length: 2.5 km (easy).
Focus: Walnut groves and panoramic viewpoints towards the surrounding peaks.
What to see
Roman remains: Traces of the ancient Julia Augusta, a commercial and military route.
Nature: Mixed woods, spring blooms (St John's lily, orchids), fauna such as deer and eagles.
Art and culture: Plaques with quotations by Giosuè Carducci, who loved these places.
Practical advice
When to go: May-June for the flowers, September-October for the autumn colours.
With whom: Local guides organise themed tours (botany, history, mushroom picking).
After the walk: Relax at the Arta Terme spa (sulphurous waters and therapeutic mud).
Maps and resources
Paper: Ask the Arta Terme Tourist Office for a free map.
Digital: Outdooractive for GPS tracks.
Carnia Welcome app with info on events and trails.
Gastronomy along the route
Stop at refuges to taste
Frico (crispy cheese and potatoes).
Cjarsons (sweet or savoury ravioli).
Craft beer from the local malgas.
Curiosity: In Arta Terme, every path is a window on Carnic culture, among dialects, ancient place names and shepherds' stories. A slow experience, far from mass tourism!
For further details: Pro Loco Arta Terme (tel. +39 0433 929290) or visit carnia.it.