Stage K-C 5

San Pietro al Natisone/Špiètar‒Matajur

Demanding

The fifth and the last but one stage of the circular trail Kobarid‒Cividale del Friuli/Čedad‒Kobarid is dedicated to the places and events of World War I in this area, especially those of October 1917. A nice trail will take you to the heart of the Valli del Natisone/Nadiške doline valleys and to their symbol, Mt. Matajur.
With its 1,642 metres above sea level it is the highest mountain of the Valli del Natisone valleys and the reference point for the entire surroundings. During World War I, Mt. Matajur played a strategic role. It was conquered by the young German First Lieutenant Erwin Rommel on 26 October 1917, which gave a considerable advantage to the joint Austro-Hungarian and German Army.
This stage of the trail is interesting mainly in view of nature, while there are but few historical features. This is surely one of the most demanding sections of this circular trail (15.8 km; 1,500 metres of ascent), so consider beforehand whether you are physically fit enough. You can also use public transport or rent an electric bicycle.
You start the route at the SMO, cross the SS54 and continue on the sidewalk to the Church of St. Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro), whereby you walk the last few metres of the previous stage. There, turn left onto Via dei Klancic Street (passing the church on your right) and continue on the road until you reach the first hairpin bend where you turn left onto CAI 749 trail that leads you all the way to the top of Mt. Matajur.
The easily ascending footpath will take you to the heart of the Valli del Natisone valleys, where a beautiful view opens over the forest areas scattered by typical minor villages where you can get a snack or enrich your knowledge of culture by visiting minor ethnographic museums associated with the SMO, or votive churches typical of the area.
After Mezzana/Mečana, the CAI 749 makes some turns and then turns left towards Monte San Giorgio, and then towards the Glevizza/Hlevišča pass. Here starts the real ascent along an almost barren slope to the top of Mt. Matajur. Keep to the CAI 749. You will have to pass quite a few forks before you reach the Dom na Matajure cottage. From there, you can soon reach the top of Mt. Matajur, where a small church stands; from that point, an exceptional panoramic view of 360 degrees opens. After a well-deserved rest, descend along the CAI 736 and in less than half an hour you reach the Rifugio Pelizzo refuge.

Photos: (1–4, 7) Schirra/Giraldi, PromoTurismoFVG; (5) Ezio Gosgnach; (6) PromoTurismoFVG

Guided Tour Programme:

Mt. Matajur – The Symbol of Natisone Valleys (Valli del Natisone)