Carinthia - Heart of the Alps - Adriatic region
Carinthia is the sunniest and southernmost province of Austria and the land of mountains and lakes. With its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea it is known as the heart of the Alps - Adriatic region. It borders the scenic green Slovenia and live wired Bella Italia. Carinthian peopel are strongly influenced by Mediterranean lifestyle and spirit. The Alps-Adriatic cuisine carefully combines local dishes with lots of Mediterranean flavors.
Alps-Adriatic Trail
Along a route of 700 kilometers the new Alps-Adriatic Trail leads from Austria's highest mountain Grossglockner through the center of Carinthia to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It crosses the Mölltal and leads over the gentle hills of the Nockberge. It goes past magnificent lakes to the Karavanke mountains and continues to the Slovenian Triglav National Park. Finally the trail leads through Italy and Friulian wine regions to Muggia near Trieste.
Proud Trieste
The proud city of Trieste is only a 2 hours' drive from Velden. Enjoy the fantastic scenery of the historic Trieste' harbor, the magnificent Piazza Unità with buildings from the imperial period and a breathtaking coastal road - one of the most beautiful routes in the Mediterranean area! Enjoy fresh fish, creamy "gelato" or an "aperitivo" at the canal cafes or the fancy Terrazza!
Charming Udine
The elegant and charming capital of Friuli warmly welcomes you with a fantastic historical center, appealing town squares like the Piazza della Libertà, mouthwatering food in typical Osterias, elegant boutiques, as well as the real masterpieces by the famous painter Tiepolo. Or take a bird-eye-view from the top of the Udine' castle.
Rustic Kanaltal
Just after a 30 minutes drive from Velden you will enter the quaint Friulian "Val Canale". Discover a valley with towering mountains, the deep blue Fusine lakes and charming villages like Venzone.
Enjoy the authentic cuisine of northern Italy and an amazing scenic view from Monte Lussari.
Scenic Bled
It will only take a 45min. drive to reach this Slovenian paradise!
The enchanting, deep blue Lake Bled is situated in the midst of emerald green forests. The traditional "Pletna-Boats" will take you to the small island in the middle of the lake where centuries ago an impressive church was built. Nearby the canyon of Vintgar and the St. Catherine's church are another worthwhile destination.
Hip Ljubljana
Within a 1.5 hour's drive - perhaps with the Alpe Adria Line - you reach the hip capital of Slovenia.
Ljubljana welcomes you as young, dynamic metropolis with crazy fashion and refined cuisine. Discover the picturesque historic center with its contemporary architecture and the famous Three Bridges.