A small corner of paradise

Sauris (in the local, Germanic dialect, “Zahre”) is the highest village in the Carnia mountains, situated at 1000-1400 m above sea level. For this reason this small community has remained isolated for many centuries, a situation that has favoured the preservation and thriving of its original culture.
The view is breathtaking, the beauty of the lake in the valley, reflecting the surrounding mountains, remains unchanged throughout all seasons of the year.
According to legends, the community of Sauris was established by two German soldiers who, tired of the wars, took refuge in this isolated valley. There is some truth in this story, because the first inhabitants did indeed come from the valleys of Carinthia in Tyrol, sometime around the mid thirteenth century, and we like to think that this town is founded on a desire for peace, the same peace that one can still appreciate today.
A new language, culture, cuisine and even religious traditions: these people are believed to have brought with them relics of St. Oswald, king of Northumbria, in northern England, who lived in the VII century and according to tradition, could protect from the plague and other epidemics.
Miraculous healings were ascribed to the shrine, and at the time of the Republic of Venice, the sanctuary in Sauris became one of the most famous and prestigious centres of devotion.
Nowadays in Sauris one can easily rediscover and venerate the wonders of nature and the warmth of its hospitable people. Here the tourist finds peace of body and soul, a miracle in our chaotic world.

Sauris (in the local, Germanic dialect, “Zahre”) is the highest village in the Carnia mountains, situated at 1000-1400 m above sea level. For this reason this small community has remained isolated for many centuries, a situation that has favoured the preservation and thriving of its original culture.

The view is breathtaking, the beauty of the lake in the valley, reflecting the surrounding mountains, remains unchanged throughout all seasons of the year.

According to legends, the community of Sauris was established by two German soldiers who, tired of the wars, took refuge in this isolated valley. There is some truth in this story, because the first inhabitants did indeed come from the valleys of Carinthia in Tyrol, sometime around the mid thirteenth century, and we like to think that this town is founded on a desire for peace, the same peace that one can still appreciate today.

A new language, culture, cuisine and even religious traditions: these people are believed to have brought with them relics of St. Oswald, king of Northumbria, in northern England, who lived in the VII century and according to tradition, could protect from the plague and other epidemics.

Miraculous healings were ascribed to the shrine, and at the time of the Republic of Venice, the sanctuary in Sauris became one of the most famous and prestigious centres of devotion.

Nowadays in Sauris one can easily rediscover and venerate the wonders of nature and the warmth of its hospitable people. Here the tourist finds peace of body and soul, a miracle in our chaotic world.

The cuisine

In Sauris you will discover a unique and original gastronomic culture. There are many specialities that can only be found here: prosciutto and speck, wholemeal beer, a vast array of cheeses, ricotta and butter. A truly unparalleled experience. And for all those who love nature: don’t miss the opportunity of taking part in the herb-gathering tours. The mountains are always generous with their gifts.