Friuli Venezia Giulia is the northeasternmost region of Italy bordering Slovenia and Austria and where I lived for ten years. It has a diverse landscape that stretches from the rugged Dolomite mountains to the Adriatic sea and is stuffed with vineyards and artisans in between.
With its vicinity to Venice, a few options include: visiting overlooked Venetian islands and quaint Friulano villages; taking a hands-on cooking class; touring a world-renowned mosaic school or a 10th century abbey; sampling wines from rediscovered Roman grapes; learning how famous San Daniele prosciutto is made; or wandering through wineries in the Italian countryside.