CAVE DE PREDIL, ITALY: On our last day in Slovenia we drove over the pass back to Italy and to Cave de Predil. Surprisingly there was a mine to visit which was also open that day. Until the nineties lead and zinc was mined there, but today the mine is closed and can be visited. On the way back we passed some fortress buildings. Some of them were visibly over 100 -200 years old and were hardly accessible.
In this video, I take a trip to Cave del Predil (Raibl), a small village high in the Julian Alps of northeastern Italy, near the border with Slovenia and Austria. This hidden corner of Friuli Venezia Giulia is surrounded by dramatic mountains, alpine lakes, and layers of history. Once a mining settlement, Cave del Predil is today a quiet destination that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
The village lies in a narrow valley, framed by steep peaks and forests that give the area a remote and atmospheric feeling. The setting alone makes it worth visiting, but Cave del Predil is also known for its rich mining history. For centuries, the community here extracted lead and zinc from the mountains, and the mines shaped daily life until they were closed in the 20th century. Today, the Mining Museum of Cave del Predil preserves this story, offering a glimpse into the hard work, traditions, and resilience of the miners who lived here. Exploring the museum and the old mine tunnels is like stepping back in time, connecting with the industrial past of a now peaceful alpine valley.
Not far from the village lies one of the jewels of the region: Lago del Predil (Raibler See). This alpine lake is surrounded by mountains that reflect in its clear waters, creating a picture-perfect scene in every season. In summer, the lake is popular for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on its shores. In autumn, the surrounding forests glow in shades of gold and red, while in winter, snow turns the landscape into a quiet wonderland. Walking along the lakeshore or hiking into the hills above offers stunning views of both the water and the alpine peaks.
The area around Cave del Predil is also filled with remnants of military history. Because of its strategic location near three borders, the valley was heavily fortified during the 19th and 20th centuries. Old fortifications, bunkers, and tunnels remain scattered through the forests and mountainsides, silent reminders of conflicts that once passed through these high passes. Hiking here often reveals these forgotten places, adding a layer of discovery to the natural beauty.
Another highlight is the proximity to the Tarvisio area, one of the most scenic corners of the Julian Alps. From Cave del Predil, trails lead deeper into the mountains, crossing ridges and valleys that connect Italy with Slovenia and Austria. The sense of being at a crossroads of cultures is strong here—Italian, Germanic, and Slavic influences all meet in the traditions, architecture, and cuisine of the region.
Walking through Cave del Predil itself, you notice the contrast between historic mining buildings, abandoned structures, and the surrounding natural splendour. This mix of history and wilderness gives the village a unique character. It is not a polished tourist destination but rather a place where the past and present meet, making it especially interesting for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path travel.
This video captures the impression of a trip to Cave del Predil: the mining heritage, the quiet alpine village atmosphere, the beauty of Lago del Predil, and the dramatic mountain landscapes all around. It is not a detailed travel guide but an overview of the atmosphere and significance of this remote corner of Italy.
For travelers, Cave del Predil is a rewarding stop in the Julian Alps. Whether you are interested in history, hiking, or simply enjoying alpine scenery, the area offers plenty to explore. The combination of industrial heritage, natural beauty, and borderland culture makes it a destination unlike any other in Italy.