Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Embracing the Natural and Culinary Gems of Urbino

Today was a day of exploration and indulgence, perfectly blending the natural beauty surrounding Urbino with the delightful culinary experiences the city has to offer. Mei-Ling, Lin, and I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to discover more of what this region holds. It’s amazing how each day here reveals a new layer of charm, making our family trip even more memorable.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at MYSTIC PIZZA di Pasini Maurizio. The aroma of freshly baked pizza and strong Italian coffee filled the air, instantly waking us up. I opted for a simple yet satisfying margherita, while Mei-Ling enjoyed a Rossini pizza, a local favorite with egg and mayonnaise. Lin, of course, chose her beloved pepperoni. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a perfect start to our day. It's funny, back in Kelowna, I never thought I'd develop such a fondness for pizza at breakfast, but here in Italy, it just feels right. With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Portici Ercolani.


Explore the enchanting Portici Ercolani in Senigallia, where history, culture, and Italian charm come together in a vibrant tourist destination.

After our satisfying breakfast, we took a leisurely stroll towards the bus station, eager to experience the scenic route to Senigallia. The anticipation of seeing the Portici Ercolani, with its elegant arches lining the river, filled us with excitement. The bus ride itself was a pleasant experience, offering glimpses of the rolling hills and picturesque countryside that define this part of Italy. As we approached Senigallia, the atmosphere shifted, becoming more vibrant and coastal. The air was filled with the refreshing scent of the sea, a welcome change from the inland aromas of Urbino. It was a smooth and scenic journey, enhancing our anticipation for the architectural beauty that awaited us.. As we strolled along the river, the elegant arches of the Portici Ercolani created a stunning visual rhythm, perfectly framing the tranquil waters. The soft morning light filtered through the arches, casting gentle shadows that danced on the pavement. Lin was particularly fascinated, running her hands along the smooth stone columns and peering out at the ducks gliding by on the water. Mei-Ling and I took our time, admiring the architectural details and soaking in the serene atmosphere. It was a perfect spot for a family photo, capturing a moment of shared appreciation for the beauty around us.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are found in the simplest of places, shared with the people we love most.

After spending a refreshing morning at the Portici Ercolani, we embarked on our journey to the Furlo Pass.


Experience the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Furlo Pass, a premier destination for hiking and outdoor adventures in Italy.

a natural wonder that promised breathtaking views and a taste of Italy's rugged beauty. The drive to the pass was an adventure in itself, with winding roads that snaked through verdant hills and offered glimpses of the stunning landscape. As we approached the pass, the towering cliffs and deep gorge came into view, creating a sense of awe and anticipation. We parked the car and took a moment to simply take in the grandeur of the scene, the fresh mountain air filling our lungs. It was clear that this was a place where nature reigned supreme, a stark contrast to the refined elegance of Urbino's Renaissance architecture. We opted for a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, eager to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the Furlo Pass. The trail led us through a landscape of rocky cliffs, dense forests, and the emerald-green waters of the Candigliano River far below. The air was filled with the sounds of nature – birdsong, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle murmur of the river. Lin was thrilled to spot a variety of wildflowers along the path, each one a tiny burst of color against the green backdrop. I made sure to capture the scenery with my camera, wanting to preserve the memory of this incredible place. The highlight of our hike was the Galleria Romana, a tunnel built by the Romans in 76 AD. Walking through this ancient passage, I couldn't help but marvel at the engineering prowess of the Romans and the enduring legacy they left behind. It was a tangible connection to the past, a reminder of the rich history that permeates every corner of Italy. By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite, so we headed to Atabulus Enoteca con cucina.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Atabulus Enoteca con Cucina in beautiful Urbino.

for a delightful meal. This charming restaurant, recommended by several locals, exuded a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. We started with a tagliere of local salumi and cheeses, accompanied by crescia, a traditional flatbread from the region. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of Le Marche. For our main courses, Mei-Ling chose the ravioli with ricotta and spinach, while I opted for the risotto with porcini mushrooms. Lin, always a fan of pasta, devoured her plate of tagliatelle with ragu. The service was friendly and attentive, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxed family lunch. We lingered over our meal, savoring each bite and enjoying the simple pleasure of being together in such a beautiful setting. After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Streetweed_urbino.


Explore the unique offerings of Streetweed Urbino, a smart shop that showcases Italian craftsmanship in the heart of a Renaissance gem.

While I'm not typically one for shopping, I was intrigued by the unique offerings of this particular store. It turned out to be a delightful experience. The store was filled with an eclectic mix of locally made crafts, artisanal products, and quirky souvenirs. Mei-Ling found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, while Lin picked out a colorful bracelet. I ended up purchasing a bottle of local olive oil and a small jar of truffle paste, eager to bring a taste of Urbino back home to Kelowna. It was a fun and unexpected detour, adding another layer to our exploration of the city. As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone in Urbino—where every meal tells a delicious story.

for dinner. This restaurant, known for its traditional cuisine and warm atmosphere, was the perfect place to end our day. We started with a complimentary antipasto of bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and fried bread, a delightful welcome. For our main courses, Mei-Ling chose the passatelli with porcini mushrooms and truffle oil, while I opted for the tagliata with rosemary and sea salt. Lin, of course, stuck with her favorite pizza. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. We lingered over our meal, sharing stories and laughter, feeling grateful for the wonderful day we had experienced together. Tomorrow marks the final day of our Urbino adventure. We plan to visit Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi and Castello di Gradara, hoping to soak in even more of the region's natural and historical beauty. We'll also treat ourselves to a final Italian dinner at Belin Che Buono, savoring the last moments of our culinary journey before heading back to Kelowna. It's been an incredible trip, filled with unforgettable memories, and I can't wait to share more of our experiences with you all.

As I reflect on our time in Urbino, I'm struck by the way this city has managed to capture our hearts. It's a place where history, art, and nature come together in perfect harmony, creating an experience that is both enriching and deeply satisfying. I hope our journey has inspired you to explore this hidden gem of Italy and discover its many treasures for yourself.