Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Adieu, Urbino!

As our 15-day Italian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible memories we’ve made in Urbino. Today was a day of contrasts, blending the natural beauty of the Marche region with a dive into its rich history. It’s hard to believe our time here is already up, but we’re determined to make the most of every last moment.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fagiolo Pizza. It's become a tradition for us to start our mornings here, enjoying their delicious pizzas. After breakfast, we set off for the Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi. The drive itself was stunning, with rolling hills and picturesque countryside views. As we approached the park, the landscape transformed into dramatic gorges and lush forests.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and fascinating geological wonders of Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi in Italy.
The Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi is the largest protected area in the Marche region. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. We decided to take one of the well-marked trails, choosing a path that was suitable for Lin. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the sounds of nature. We spotted various birds and Lin was thrilled to see a few small animals scurrying through the underbrush.

The park is a haven for numerous species of wildlife, offering visitors the chance to observe animals in their natural habitat. Hiking through the Gola della Rossa was an immersive experience. The towering cliffs and dense forests created a sense of being completely enveloped by nature. I paused frequently to take photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scenery. Lin, ever the curious explorer, peppered me with questions about the different plants and animals we encountered. Even Mei-Ling, who usually prefers cityscapes, was captivated by the park's serene beauty.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

After a satisfying morning of hiking, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria in Urbino. The restaurant is known for blending tradition and innovation to create irresistible menus. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some of their innovative pizzas and local specialties. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria in Urbino – where every dish tells a story.
Amici Miei Ristorante Pizzeria offers innovative and seasonal menus, with dishes made from the best local ingredients. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and excellent cuisine, with innovative and high-quality dishes.

With our appetites sated, we set our sights on our next destination: Castello di Gradara. As we approached Gradara, the castle loomed majestically on the horizon. Its imposing walls and towers transported us back in time. The castle dates back to the period between the 11th and 15th centuries. Its history is intertwined with the feuds between the Malatesta and Montefeltro families.


Explore the breathtaking Castello di Gradara, a medieval castle steeped in history, stunning architecture, and enchanting views of the Italian landscape.
The Castello di Gradara is a medieval fortress located in the town of Gradara, in the Marche region of Italy. Legend says that the castle was the setting for the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalized by Dante in his Divine Comedy.

We explored the castle's interior, wandering through its ancient halls and courtyards. Lin was fascinated by the suits of armor and the displays of medieval weaponry. Mei-Ling was captivated by the views from the castle walls, which offered panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. I found myself drawn to the history of the place, imagining the lives of the people who had once lived within those walls.

The castle stands 142 meters above sea level and offers extraordinary urban and architectural views. The construction of the castle began in the 12th century. The castle played a crucial role in regional power dynamics and represents medieval fortress architecture.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Urbino. For dinner, we decided to try Belin Che Buono. This restaurant is near the Chiesa di Santo Spirito. It's known for its delicious pizza al pesto, focaccia, and pizza al taglio. We enjoyed a variety of their offerings, savoring the flavors of the region one last time. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect ending to our day.


Discover authentic Italian pizza at Belin Che Buono in Urbino – where every slice tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Belin Che Buono offers a memorable dining experience. The restaurant is known for its delicious pizza, focaccia, and other local specialties. Ettore Ferrara made Belin Che Buono magical, and the staff is very friendly and accommodating.

After dinner, we decided to take a final stroll through the streets of Urbino. The city was quiet and peaceful, bathed in the soft glow of the streetlights. We stopped by the Urbino Jazz Club, drawn in by the smooth sounds of jazz music. Although we didn't stay long, it was a pleasant way to cap off our evening. I made a mental note to return someday and fully experience the Urbino Jazz Club.


Discover the soul of jazz in Urbino at the Urbino Jazz Club, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Back at Hotel Raffaello, I sat down to write, reflecting on our incredible journey. Urbino had exceeded all of our expectations, offering a perfect blend of art, history, and culture. It was a place where we could immerse ourselves in the Renaissance spirit while also enjoying the simple pleasures of Italian life. I'm grateful for the memories we've made here, and I know that Urbino will always hold a special place in our hearts.


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.
Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Kelowna. While I'm looking forward to returning to our orchard and the familiar comforts of home, I know that I'll miss the beauty and charm of Urbino. This trip has been an incredible experience for our family, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure. Until then, arrivederci, Urbino!

The Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi and the Castello di Gradara provided a fitting end to our Urbino adventure, blending natural beauty with historical depth.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my travel experiences with you, hoping to inspire others to explore the world and appreciate different cultures.