Exploring the Hidden Gems of Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Friulian Fairytale: Dolomites, Dishes, and Discoveries

Today was a whirlwind of breathtaking landscapes and historical intrigue. From the rugged peaks of the Dolomiti Friulane to the ancient walls of Castello di San Giusto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia has truly captured my heart. It's amazing how much beauty and history can be packed into a single day, and I can't wait to share all the details with you.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Al Castello in Trieste. The charming restaurant, perched with stunning views, offered a delightful start to our explorations. I savored the fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee, while Hans enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. It was the perfect way to prepare for a day of adventure. From our breakfast spot, we could see the Castello di San Giusto looming in the distance, a tantalizing glimpse of our next destination.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Al Castello in Cividale del Friuli – a delightful escape into Italy's culinary traditions.
After breakfast, we set off for the Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane. The drive itself was a scenic masterpiece, with rolling hills giving way to towering peaks. As we approached the park, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. I couldn't resist rolling down the windows to fully immerse myself in the sensory experience. The park is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and I could understand why. The dramatic rock formations, carved by glaciers and time, were simply awe-inspiring.


Discover the stunning beauty of Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane, a natural paradise filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
We spent several hours hiking along the marked trails, marveling at the panoramic views. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and we encountered hikers, climbers, and nature lovers of all ages. Hans, ever the enthusiastic photographer, was in his element, capturing the stunning scenery from every possible angle. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak it all in, feeling a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. We even spotted some local wildlife – a family of deer grazing in a meadow, and a soaring eagle circling overhead. It was a truly magical experience.

The journey of a lifetime isn't about the destination, but about the unforgettable experiences created along the way.

After our invigorating hike, we drove back towards Trieste, eager to explore the Castello di San Giusto. The castle, perched atop San Giusto Hill, offers panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. As we approached the castle, I couldn't help but feel a sense of history and grandeur. The castle has witnessed centuries of battles, alliances, and cultural exchanges, and its walls seemed to whisper tales of the past.


Explore the rich history and stunning views of Castello di San Giusto, a majestic fortress and museum in the heart of Trieste, Italy.
We spent the afternoon exploring the castle's various chambers, ramparts, and museums. The Civic Museum, housed within the castle walls, showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, including ancient Roman mosaics, medieval weaponry, and Renaissance paintings. I was particularly captivated by the collection of historical costumes, which offered a glimpse into the lives of Trieste's elite throughout the centuries. Hans, meanwhile, was fascinated by the castle's architecture, pointing out the various influences of Venetian, Austrian, and Italian styles.

One of the highlights of our visit was climbing to the top of the main tower, where we were rewarded with breathtaking views of Trieste and the surrounding coastline. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of red-tiled roofs, elegant squares, and bustling harbors. The Adriatic Sea sparkled in the distance, dotted with sailboats and ferries. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our day of adventures and appreciate the beauty of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at the Palmanova Outlet Village. It’s always fun to check out the local shops and see what treasures we can find. I was on the lookout for a special souvenir to remind me of our trip, while Hans was hoping to find a new pair of hiking boots. The outlet village offered a wide variety of shops, from high-end fashion boutiques to sporting goods stores. I ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate, while Hans found a great deal on a pair of comfortable walking shoes.


Discover unbeatable fashion deals and delicious dining at Palmanova Outlet Village, your ultimate shopping destination in Italy.
By the time we finished shopping, we were both feeling quite peckish. Luckily, our itinerary included a dinner reservation at Vitello d'Oro in Pordenone, a restaurant known for its traditional Friulian cuisine. The drive to Pordenone was a pleasant one, with the sun setting over the countryside, casting a golden glow on the fields and vineyards. We arrived at Vitello d'Oro just as the sky was turning a deep shade of purple.


Discover Vitello d'Oro in Udine for exquisite Italian seafood cuisine that combines tradition with modern flair.
The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and soft lighting. We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to our table, which was adorned with a crisp white tablecloth and flickering candles. The menu featured a tempting array of regional specialties, and we struggled to make a decision. After much deliberation, I opted for the frico, a traditional dish made with melted cheese and potatoes, while Hans chose the gnocchi with duck ragout. We also ordered a bottle of local red wine to complement our meal.

The food was simply divine. My frico was crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, with a rich, savory flavor that melted in my mouth. Hans's gnocchi were light and fluffy, and the duck ragout was bursting with flavor. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the culinary delights of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

As we enjoyed our meal, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We'll be exploring the Riserva Naturale Regionale del Lago di Cornino and the Crosis waterfall, eager to discover more of Friuli's natural wonders. I'm also looking forward to visiting Liberty 1894, a bar that sounds like the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing. Before we left, the staff recommended a visit to the nearby restaurant, L'Argine a Vencò, which they described as a hidden gem. We made a mental note to check it out if we had the time.

Before dinner, though, we had lunch in San Daniele del Friuli at Osteria Al Portonat. It was a delightful experience. The Osteria is known for its traditional Friulian cuisine and warm atmosphere. I had the opportunity to taste the region's famous San Daniele prosciutto, which was absolutely divine. The staff was incredibly friendly and made us feel right at home. It's definitely a place I'd recommend to anyone visiting the area. It was the perfect midday treat after a morning full of adventures.


Discover Osteria Al Portonat: An authentic Italian dining experience in San Daniele del Friuli with fresh local ingredients.
As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of nature, history, culture, and cuisine. Friuli-Venezia Giulia had exceeded all of my expectations, and I was already looking forward to another day of exploration. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of towering mountains, ancient castles, and plates piled high with delicious Friulian food. I am so grateful that I get to experience all of this with Hans. Sharing these moments with him makes everything even more special.

Goodnight from Friuli!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention – I was so focused on packing my camera and travel journal that I completely forgot to bring an umbrella and a portable phone charger. Luckily, Hans had a spare charger, but we may need to invest in an umbrella tomorrow, as the forecast is calling for rain.