Exploring the Hidden Gems of Friuli-Venezia Giulia

A Fond Farewell to Friuli-Venezia Giulia

As our final day in Friuli-Venezia Giulia draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve had. This region, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, has revealed itself to be a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and, of course, mouthwatering cuisine. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring local wines, every moment has been a delightful discovery. I am excited to share with you the highlights of our last day and the lasting impressions this beautiful corner of Italy has left on us.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at l'Osteria in Trieste. The charming atmosphere and delicious pastries were the perfect start to a day filled with exploration and reflection. Sipping on a cappuccino, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared in Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

Our first stop was the Trieste War Memorial, a solemn and powerful monument dedicated to the fallen soldiers. The monument, with its imposing figures, stands as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made during the wars. As we stood there, Hans and I took a moment to reflect on the importance of peace and remembrance. The views from the memorial were breathtaking, overlooking the city and the Adriatic Sea. It was a poignant experience that left a lasting impression on us.


Explore the Trieste War Memorial, a historic monument set in a beautiful park, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere for reflection.

From the solemnity of the war memorial, we journeyed to the natural beauty of Pozze Smeraldine. These emerald pools, nestled in the heart of the Friulian Dolomites, are a sight to behold. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush greenery, created a serene and magical atmosphere. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.


Explore Pozze Smeraldine: Italy's Hidden Natural Oasis with Crystal-Clear Emerald Waters and Lush Surroundings.

Upon arrival, we embarked on a short hike to reach the pools. The trail was easy enough, even for someone like me who occasionally trips over air, and soon we were rewarded with the sight of the stunning turquoise waters. We spent a couple of hours simply relaxing by the pools, soaking in the beauty of nature. Some brave souls were even swimming, but I decided to stick to dipping my toes in – the water was a bit too chilly for my Californian blood!

For lunch, we had a unique experience at a Home Restaurant in Villa. This intimate dining experience allowed us to savor authentic Friulian cuisine in a cozy and welcoming setting. Our hosts were incredibly gracious, sharing stories about their family history and the local culinary traditions. We feasted on homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and locally sourced vegetables, all paired with exquisite regional wines. It was a truly memorable meal that captured the essence of Friulian hospitality.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Home Restaurant in Villa, where every dish is crafted with passion and locally sourced ingredients.

After lunch, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at sapone artigianale friuli venezia giulia/I Profumi del Bosco, a charming shop specializing in handmade soaps. I've always had a weakness for artisanal products, and these soaps were simply irresistible. Made with natural ingredients and infused with local scents, they were the perfect souvenir to bring back home to Berlin. I picked up a few bars for myself and some as gifts for friends and family. The shop owner was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the process of soap making and the benefits of each ingredient. It was a delightful experience that added a touch of local flavor to our trip.


Discover artisanal soaps and unique crafts at I Profumi del Bosco in Venzone, a must-visit gem for tourists in Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new cultures, connecting with people, and creating lasting memories.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to L'osteria di Tancredi for our farewell dinner. This charming osteria, known for its traditional Friulian cuisine, was the perfect setting for our final meal in the region. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with locals and tourists alike gathered to savor the delicious food and wine. We ordered a selection of regional specialties, including San Daniele prosciutto, frico (a crispy cheese and potato dish), and cjarsons (sweet and savory dumplings). Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the unique flavors of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Of course, we couldn't resist pairing our meal with a bottle of local wine – a crisp and refreshing Friulano that perfectly complemented the food.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at L'Osteria Di Tancredi in San Daniele del Friuli - where tradition meets taste.

During dinner, Hans and I reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. From exploring the historic city of Trieste to hiking in the stunning Dolomites, every day had been filled with adventure and discovery. We talked about the delicious food we had eaten, the friendly people we had met, and the breathtaking landscapes we had seen. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing that our time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia was coming to an end, but also feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared.

As we savor our last glasses of wine, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. We had successfully navigated a new region, embraced a new culture, and created memories that would last a lifetime. I am so grateful to have shared this experience with my husband, Hans, whose adventurous spirit and unwavering support made the trip even more special. Traveling with him always brings an extra layer of joy to my adventures.

Reflecting on our time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, I am struck by the region's unique blend of cultures and influences. From its Roman roots to its Austro-Hungarian heritage, this corner of Italy has a rich and complex history that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The people of Friuli-Venezia Giulia are warm and welcoming, eager to share their culture and way of life with visitors. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to preserving their local traditions and supporting local businesses. It's a refreshing contrast to the mass-produced, homogenized experiences that are becoming increasingly common in the travel industry.

As we prepare to leave Friuli-Venezia Giulia, I know that this is not a goodbye, but rather a see you later. This region has captured our hearts, and we are already planning our return trip. Next time, I want to explore the region's many hiking trails, visit some of the smaller towns and villages, and, of course, indulge in even more of the local cuisine. I also want to learn more about the region's history and culture, perhaps by taking a cooking class or a language course.

As I write this final blog post from our hotel room, I can hear the sounds of the city outside – the gentle hum of traffic, the laughter of locals, and the distant echo of church bells. It's a comforting sound, a reminder that life goes on, even as we embark on new adventures. I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have had in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and I am excited to see what the future holds.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Berlin, filled with memories of our Italian adventure. While I am looking forward to returning to our cozy apartment and familiar routines, I will always cherish the time we spent in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. This region has shown me the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things in life, and embracing new experiences with an open mind and a grateful heart.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Friuli-Venezia Giulia. I hope that my blog posts have inspired you to explore this hidden gem of Italy and discover its many treasures for yourself. Until next time, arrivederci!

And who knows, maybe our next adventure will be in your neck of the woods! Feel free to leave a comment with suggestions for our next travel destination. Until then, happy travels!

Trip End

Our Italian adventure has come to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged mountains of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy has captivated us with its beauty, charm, and delicious cuisine. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have explored this incredible country with my husband, Hans, and I am already looking forward to our next adventure together.

As we prepare to return to Berlin, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have had and the people we have met along the way. Travel has a way of opening your mind, broadening your perspective, and reminding you of the beauty and diversity of our world. I encourage you to embrace the spirit of adventure and explore new places, cultures, and experiences. You never know what you might discover!

Thank you for following along on our Italian journey. I hope that my blog posts have inspired you to plan your own adventure and discover the magic of travel. Until next time, auf wiedersehen!

And don't forget to pack your camera, your travel journal, and a sense of adventure. The world is waiting to be explored!

Safe travels, everyone!

With love,
Jessica & Hans