Stop at Maniago, known as the ‘city of knives’ because the waters of the Colvera stream together with the local craftsmanship have given life to numerous forges since the Middle Ages, and then to industries that are still flourishing today. Take some time to visit the Museum of Blacksmiths’ Art and Cutlery, a modern exhibition and workshop area that welcomes and guides visitors through the town’s artisan heritage. Then stroll through the town centre and visit the Duomo, a harmonious piece of Romanesque architecture.

Now you can leave the town behind you and climb up the path to enter a different dimension: the Val Colvera. This valley, especially in late spring and early autumn, seems like a fairytale place, with woods, small villages and ancient tales of spirits of the forest, such as the agane, female beings associated with water, found in many cultures.

A slow, winding climb leads to Poffabro, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, from where you can look out over the valley. Wandering through the narrow streets and old houses, you will be amazed by the care and attention to detail in the flowerbeds, façades, balconies and in general the harmony that pervades the village.

From here you can reach Frisanco, another hidden gem of Val Colvera, similar but different to the previous village, with narrow streets and stone houses that suddenly open onto meadows and mountains. Continue through Valdistali, surrounded by woods and silence, until you reach another small hamlet, Preplans, once abandoned and now being re-discovered for its tranquillity and beauty. From here, after crossing the Meduna stream, you will soon reach Meduno, the end of this perhaps challenging but undeniably fascinating stage.