Living close to the Italian border in Slovenia is ideal for day trips into Italy. I love Italy for it’s vibe, food and people. The rural, mountainous town of Tarvisio in the province of Udine lies in the most north-eastern part of the country. It is beautiful, especially in spring and summer. The wild meadows are blooming and the winter ski pistes have turned into lush green hills and it’s only a 45 minute drive from where we live in the Soča Valley.

Just 4km from Tarvisio is one of seven ski resorts in Friuli Venezia Giulia region. It opens for summer on 1st June and the cable car takes tourists up the mountain to visit the sanctuary of Mount Lussari. It is one of the oldest and highest pilgrimage destinations as well as being one of the most popular hiking and skiing spots.

As well as a lovely church, there is also a quaint hamlet with a few cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops. We had a light lunch at Rifugio Alpino where I had local cheese stuffed ravioli with an Aperol spritz. Very Italian! Despite the service being a bit slow, it didn’t really matter as the views of the Cacciatore mountains from the restaurant balcony were breathtaking.

You can descend the mountain via cable car or by walking. Many people hike up too on various hiking trails, we took the 613 Lussari – Camporosso trail down. It was quite steep but a nice path that winds through the Tarvisio forest down into the valley.

Mount Lussari is an ideal place to visit for anyone looking for a chilled day trip from Slovenia or Austria. It is easily accessible with a huge free car park and a return cable car ticket priced at €14. Discounts are available for one way rides, children, locals and seniors.

There are superb views of the Julian Alps that can only be appreciated from being up high. The spiritual feel of the place also leaves you feeling relaxed and refreshed.