August in Friuli Venezia Giulia: 5 activities not to be missed!

August in Friuli Venezia Giulia is a month of continuous discovery, where natural beauty is intertwined with cultural events and local festivities. A boating holiday in this region offers an endless mix of adventure, relaxation and attractions, perfect for those who want a different experience every day. See 5 must-see attractions along our itineraries!

Lignano Sabbiadoro: Lignano Sunset Festival

Lignano Sabbiadoro is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Friuli Venezia Giulia, known for its golden beaches and lively nightlife. Throughout August, Lignano hosts the Lignano Sunset Festival, an event that transforms summer evenings into an explosion of music and entertainment. The festival welcomes internationally and nationally renowned artists, offering performances ranging from pop and rock concerts to theatre and cabaret shows. The evenings of the Lignano Sunset Festival are the perfect opportunity to enjoy the summer nightlife, dancing under the stars and immersing oneself in a festive and engaging atmosphere.

Besides performances, the festival offers a wide range of side activities, including craft markets, street food and workshops for all ages. Families can participate in creative workshops, while young people can enjoy sports activities and games on the beach. The Lignano Sunset Festival is therefore an unmissable event that makes the summer nights even more magical and unforgettable.

Marano Lagunare: Fasolari in Festa

A few kilometres by boat from Lignano Sabbiadoro is Marano Lagunare, an enchanting fishing village immersed in the nature of the lagoon. In August, Marano Lagunare hosts the Fasolari in Festa, a food and wine event dedicated to fasolari, delicious molluscs typical of the lagoon. This event celebrates the local culinary tradition through ten days of tastings, live music and cultural activities.

Visitors can enjoy typical dishes based on fasolari, prepared according to traditional recipes, and discover the secrets of Marano cuisine by participating in cooking shows and cooking demonstrations. The festival is also an opportunity to learn more about the culture and traditions of Marano Lagunare, thanks to guided tours of the village and the lagoon, art exhibitions and folklore shows. Fasolari in Festa is an event that combines gastronomy, culture and entertainment, offering an authentic and engaging experience.

<h2>Aquileia: Journey through History with Us</h2>

Aquileia, an ancient Roman city and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another jewel of Friuli Venezia Giulia not to be missed. During the month of August, Aquileia offers multilingual guided tours with the programme Viaggia con Noi nella Storia, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the secrets and splendours of the city at the time of the Roman Empire.

These tours take participants through the main archaeological sites of Aquileia, including the Roman forum, the patriarchal basilica with its floor mosaics, and the river port.

During the tour, expert guides tell anecdotes and curiosities about daily life in ancient Rome, revealing Aquileia's strategic importance as a commercial and cultural centre. Visitors can admire unique artefacts and discover how the city has evolved over the centuries while keeping its historical heritage intact. Taking one of these tours is a fascinating way to travel back in time and better understand Aquileia's rich history.

<h2>The Island of Shells</h2>

Sailing towards the Marano Lagoon, one encounters the Isola delle Conchiglie, a strip of land about 7 kilometres long separating the Adriatic Sea from the lagoon. This island represents a unique opportunity to explore an unspoilt natural environment, far from mass tourism. Its sand dunes and lush vegetation offer shelter to numerous species of birds and plants, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Isola delle Conchiglie is particularly popular with kitesurfers, who gather on windy days to perform spectacular acrobatics on the waves. But the island is also ideal for those who prefer quieter activities, such as SUP or canoe trips, which allow them to explore its crystal-clear waters and hidden channels.

Spending a day on Isola delle Conchiglie means immersing yourself completely in nature, enjoying the peace and beauty of a place that is still wild and unspoilt.

<h2>Bicycle Excursions: River Stella and River Tagliamento</h2>

For those who love adventure on two wheels, a cycling trip along the banks of the Stella and Tagliamento Rivers is an activity not to be missed. These rivers offer routes surrounded by nature, fresh water and breathtaking scenery, ideal for a day of exploration and relaxation. The cycling routes along the Stella and Tagliamento Rivers are suitable for all levels of experience and offer the opportunity to observe the local fauna and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding greenery.

Along the way, cyclists can stop for a picnic on the banks of the river, visit small picturesque villages and admire the river landscapes. These excursions are a perfect opportunity to break away from the daily routine and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Friuli Venezia Giulia. For further details on cycling itineraries, please consult this article.

The Secret Lagoon of Grado and the 'Moon in the Well' Festival in Caorle

In Grado, every Friday in August, there is the opportunity to explore some of the lesser-known channels of the Grado Lagoon. During this journey to a secret destination, you can admire the beautiful lagoon landscape and the surrounding nature. The destination is Marina de Macia, where hidden ancient casoni and a Roman road can be found. This excursion culminates in a pleasant picnic surrounded by nature, in an enchanted little Eden in the Grado Lagoon.

Caorle hosts the International Street Theatre Festival 'La Luna nel Pozzo'. This free, open-air event sees the participation of artists and theatre groups from all over the world. The calli and campielli of Caorle become the ideal stage for this festival, where the artists perform in close contact with the public, providing emotions that remain in the heart.

In conclusion, August in Friuli Venezia Giulia offers an infinite variety of experiences. Whether you are looking for the vibrancy of a festival, the tranquillity of a nature reserve or a historical adventure, this region has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to explore this wonderful part of Italy on board a houseboat, where every day is a new adventure.