Sauris
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Latest page update: 25 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Sauris
Sauris has a small but appealing selection of established hotels, in keeping with its setting in the Carnic Alps and its focus on slow tourism, food traditions and mountain activities. Accommodation here tends to emphasise alpine character, wellness facilities and scenic surroundings, with properties that cater to both winter and summer visitors looking for comfort in a quiet, high-altitude setting.
Among the best-reviewed options, Hotel Schneehaus offers an inviting alpine style with comfortable rooms, a wellness area and positive guest feedback for its warm atmosphere and setting (€€). Albergo Diffuso Sauris – reception in Sauris di Sopra provides hotel-standard accommodation spread across restored traditional buildings, appreciated for its character, space and quality of facilities (€€€). For a higher-end stay, Boutique Hotel Rikhelan combines modern alpine design with attention to detail, well-appointed rooms and strong reviews for comfort and service (€€€).
Among the best-reviewed options, Hotel Schneehaus offers an inviting alpine style with comfortable rooms, a wellness area and positive guest feedback for its warm atmosphere and setting (€€). Albergo Diffuso Sauris – reception in Sauris di Sopra provides hotel-standard accommodation spread across restored traditional buildings, appreciated for its character, space and quality of facilities (€€€). For a higher-end stay, Boutique Hotel Rikhelan combines modern alpine design with attention to detail, well-appointed rooms and strong reviews for comfort and service (€€€).
Where is
Where is Sauris?
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The town referred to here as Sauris is actually two towns next to each other: Sauris di Sotto (Lower Sauris) and Sauris di Sopra (Upper Sauris).
Sauris stands at an elevation of 1,212 metres above sea level and next to the lake of the same name. The town was once under the former Udine Province but now part of UTI della Carnia. |
Comune di Sauris
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Territory: UTI della Carnia
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 392 (in 2024 - source) Size: 41 km² Close by: Sappada, Tolmezzo, Venzone, San Daniele del Friuli Recommended stay: Albergo Diffuso Sauris in Sauris di Sopra |
What People Ask About Sauris, Friuli Venezia Giulia
Is Sauris worth visiting?
Yes, Sauris is worth visiting for its alpine charm, wooden houses, and cultural heritage. It is one of the highest villages in Friuli Venezia Giulia and is well known for its smoked ham, traditional festivals, and mountain scenery.
How do I get to Sauris?
Sauris can be reached by car via mountain roads, around 2 hours from Udine and 1 hour 20 minutes from Tolmezzo. The nearest train station is in Carnia, from where you can continue by bus or car. The journey includes scenic but winding routes through the Carnic Alps.
What are the main attractions in Sauris?
Main attractions include the traditional alpine architecture, the Church of Sant’Osvaldo, and Lake Sauris with its turquoise waters. The village is also famous for Prosciutto di Sauris and local craft traditions, as well as hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.
When is the best time to visit Sauris?
Summer is ideal for hiking, lake activities, and food festivals such as the Prosciutto di Sauris celebration in July. Winter attracts visitors for skiing and snowshoeing, while spring and autumn are quieter but still scenic.
How long should I stay in Sauris?
A one to two-day stay is recommended to explore the village, enjoy the lake, and sample local food. Longer stays are ideal if you want to hike the surrounding mountains or take part in seasonal events.
Related links
Discover
Discover Sauris
Sauris is a high-altitude village in Friuli Venezia Giulia, set in the Carnic Alps above the Lumiei Valley. Surrounded by forests and alpine meadows, it is one of the most elevated settlements in the region, with wooden chalets and stone houses forming its traditional centre. The location, isolated for much of its history, has helped preserve a unique cultural identity within the wider Carnia area.
The village is known for its Germanic linguistic heritage, reflected in the local dialect, as well as for its production of cured meats, particularly Prosciutto di Sauris. Landmarks include the Church of Sant’Osvaldo, with its baroque interior and painted wooden altars, and the nearby Lake Sauris, an artificial reservoir framed by mountains. Road access connects Sauris with Ampezzo and Tolmezzo, while the surrounding peaks and trails make it a destination for hiking and mountain activities.
The village is known for its Germanic linguistic heritage, reflected in the local dialect, as well as for its production of cured meats, particularly Prosciutto di Sauris. Landmarks include the Church of Sant’Osvaldo, with its baroque interior and painted wooden altars, and the nearby Lake Sauris, an artificial reservoir framed by mountains. Road access connects Sauris with Ampezzo and Tolmezzo, while the surrounding peaks and trails make it a destination for hiking and mountain activities.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Sauris
- Centro Storico di Sauris is a charming mountain village with wooden houses built in traditional blockbau style, featuring carved balconies and shingled roofs. Narrow lanes wind between the buildings, creating a cosy atmosphere. The village retains its Germanic cultural heritage, reflected in local architecture and language. It sits high in the Carnic Alps, surrounded by forests and peaks.
- Chiesa di San Osvaldo stands in Sauris di Sopra, with a modest exterior and a beautifully decorated interior. Inside are baroque altars, painted ceilings, and wooden sculptures crafted by local artisans. The church remains central to religious life and festivals. Its position offers lovely views over the surrounding mountains.
- Lago di Sauris lies below the village, a striking turquoise reservoir nestled among forested slopes. The lake is popular for gentle walks along its shore and photography. Its vivid colour contrasts with the green landscape and rocky peaks. Several spots around the lake offer quiet places to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Sentieri escursionistici di Sauris lead through alpine meadows, forests, and high ridges. Trails vary from easy paths suitable for families to challenging hikes offering panoramic views. Wildflowers and mountain herbs add colour in summer. Walking here provides both natural beauty and tranquillity.
- Prosciutto tastings and culinary experiences in Sauris introduce visitors to the village’s famous smoked ham, celebrated for its delicate flavour. Local producers offer tours and tastings, explaining traditional smoking techniques. The experiences often include other regional specialities and wines. It’s a delicious way to explore Sauris’s unique culinary heritage.
Tours and Activities
Sauris Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Sauris Photo Gallery
Friuli-Venezia Giulia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Sauris
By Rail: Sauris does not have a railway station. The nearest station is in Carnia, about 55 kilometres away, on the Udine–Tarvisio line. From Carnia, regional trains connect to Udine in around 40 minutes and to Tarvisio in about 50 minutes. Onward travel from Carnia to Sauris is possible by car, taxi, or limited bus services.
By Road: The village is set high in the Carnic Alps, reached by winding mountain roads. From Tolmezzo, the distance is about 40 kilometres, with a driving time of roughly 1 hour. From Udine, the journey is approximately 95 kilometres, taking around 1 hour and 50 minutes via the SS52 and local roads. Parking is available near the village centre and accommodation areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: The village is set high in the Carnic Alps, reached by winding mountain roads. From Tolmezzo, the distance is about 40 kilometres, with a driving time of roughly 1 hour. From Udine, the journey is approximately 95 kilometres, taking around 1 hour and 50 minutes via the SS52 and local roads. Parking is available near the village centre and accommodation areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport: Located about 120 kilometres from Sauris, with a driving time of around 2 hours. It provides domestic flights and several European connections.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport: Approximately 180 kilometres away, the drive takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. It is a major hub offering extensive European and intercontinental services.
- Treviso Antonio Canova Airport: Roughly 170 kilometres from Sauris, with a driving time of about 2 hours and 40 minutes. It mainly serves low-cost airlines operating European routes.
Private Transfers
Sauris Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a reliable way to reach Sauris, a remote alpine village in Friuli Venezia Giulia, or to continue your journey to other destinations in the region. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven directly to your destination by a professional driver, without the need to organise public transport or navigate winding mountain roads yourself.
From Sauris, transfers can connect you with Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport, with longer journeys also available to Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport. They are equally practical for shorter trips to nearby towns such as Ampezzo, Forni di Sopra, and Tolmezzo, or for travelling further afield into the Dolomites and neighbouring Austria.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Sauris, transfers can connect you with Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport, with longer journeys also available to Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport. They are equally practical for shorter trips to nearby towns such as Ampezzo, Forni di Sopra, and Tolmezzo, or for travelling further afield into the Dolomites and neighbouring Austria.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

