Exploring the Hidden Gems of Friuli-Venezia Giulia

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today was a day of embracing nature's raw beauty here in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Hans and I set out to explore the region around Forgaria nel Friuli, and what we found was nothing short of breathtaking. From observing majestic griffons soaring above a glacial lake to hiking to a hidden waterfall, it was a day filled with awe and wonder. It was a reminder of why we love to travel – to witness the untouched corners of the world and to feel connected to something larger than ourselves.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hostaria Alla Tavernetta. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air. I opted for a simple yet satisfying meal of local cheese and prosciutto, while Hans enjoyed a traditional frittata. Fuelled up, we were ready to start our adventure.

Our first destination was the Riserva Naturale Regionale del Lago di Cornino. I had read about this place before our trip, particularly about the griffons that call it home. These magnificent birds, with their impressive wingspans, were reintroduced to the area as part of a conservation project, and seeing them soar against the backdrop of the turquoise lake was an unforgettable sight.


Explore the breathtaking Riserva Naturale Regionale del Lago di Cornino, a serene nature preserve with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife in Italy's Udine Province.
As we approached the reserve, the air grew cooler, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The landscape opened up to reveal the stunning Lago di Cornino, its waters a mesmerizing shade of blue-green. The lake itself is a glacial marvel, formed thousands of years ago. We parked the car and walked towards the Centro Visite, eager to learn more about the griffons and the reserve's ecosystem.

Inside, we found an informative display about the griffon conservation project. It was fascinating to learn about the efforts to reintroduce these birds to the region and the positive impact they've had on the local environment. We then stepped outside to the observation area, where we were greeted by the sight of griffons circling overhead. Their massive wings caught the sunlight as they effortlessly glided through the air. I felt a surge of excitement as I raised my camera, trying to capture the perfect shot of these majestic creatures.

We spent a good hour simply watching the griffons, marveling at their grace and power. Hans, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about their behavior and habitat. It's moments like these, sharing in the wonder of nature, that make our travels so special. I remember back in Berlin, reading about these griffons and now here we are, witnessing their beauty firsthand.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After our time with the griffons, we decided to explore the walking trails around the lake. The path led us through a lush forest, the sunlight filtering through the leaves creating dappled patterns on the ground. The air was filled with the sounds of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. We walked hand in hand, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. I made a mental note to bring an umbrella next time, remembering I forgot it back in Berlin.

As we rounded a bend in the trail, we came across a hidden gem – a small beach area along the lake's edge. The water was crystal clear, and we could see tiny fish darting among the rocks. We sat down on a fallen log, dangling our feet in the cool water. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the lake.

After leaving Lago di Cornino, our next adventure led us to the Crosis Waterfall. The drive itself was picturesque, winding through charming villages and rolling hills. As we got closer, we could hear the faint roar of the waterfall in the distance, building anticipation for what was to come.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Crosis Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in the Province of Udine, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
We parked the car near the village of Crosis and followed a well-marked trail towards the falls. The path led us through a dense forest, the air thick with the scent of moss and damp earth. The trail was a bit steep in places, but the promise of the waterfall kept us motivated. Along the way, we passed several small streams, their waters gurgling over smooth stones. I couldn't help but think how much our niece would love this place. She's always been fascinated by waterfalls and nature.

Finally, after a short but invigorating hike, we reached the Crosis Waterfall. And what a sight it was! The water cascaded down a rocky cliff face, creating a thunderous roar that echoed through the forest. The base of the falls was shrouded in mist, adding to the magical atmosphere.

The Cascate di Crosis are not entirely natural, I later learned. They were formed following the construction of a dam for hydroelectric purposes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, this doesn't detract from their beauty. The water plunges down about 38 meters, and the surrounding landscape is incredibly lush.

We spent a long time at the waterfall, simply admiring its power and beauty. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. Hans, meanwhile, found a spot on a nearby rock and sat in quiet contemplation, listening to the roar of the water. He later told me that he felt a sense of peace and tranquility in this place, a feeling of being connected to something ancient and powerful.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we reluctantly made our way back to the car. We were both tired but exhilarated by the day's adventures. Before heading back, we stopped at Liberty 1894, a charming bar in Forgaria nel Friuli. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we enjoyed a couple of glasses of local wine while chatting about our day.


Discover Liberty 1894, Udine's vibrant cocktail bar renowned for its live music, inclusive atmosphere, and creative cocktails that promise unforgettable nights.
For dinner, we had a reservation at L'Argine a Vencò, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and use of local ingredients. The restaurant is located in a beautifully restored farmhouse, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere.


Discover culinary artistry at L'Argine a Vencò, where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an unforgettable fine dining experience.
The meal was an experience in itself. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Chef Antonia Klugmann's passion for local ingredients and her commitment to sustainability were evident in every bite. From the delicate risotto with wild herbs to the succulent lamb with smoked ricotta, each course was a culinary masterpiece. The restaurant is known for highlighting the seasons and using ingredients from their own garden, a true farm-to-table experience.

Vittoria Klugmann, Antonia's sister, manages the dining room with grace and passion, adding to the overall experience. Her knowledge of the food and wine pairings elevated the meal to another level. I was particularly impressed by the wine selection, which showcased the best of the Collio region.

As we savored each course, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the majestic griffons of Lago di Cornino to the thundering waters of Crosis Waterfall, we had witnessed the raw beauty of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. And now, we were capping off the day with a culinary journey that celebrated the region's rich flavors and traditions.

As we walked back to our car, under a sky full of stars, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this experience. It was a reminder of the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate, and the importance of taking the time to appreciate the simple things in life.

Tomorrow, we're off to explore the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and the Tagliamento River. I'm also hoping to do a little shopping at Città Fiera. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of today and look forward to more adventures in this beautiful region.

I must say, this trip to Friuli-Venezia Giulia has been nothing short of spectacular. It's a region that truly has it all – stunning landscapes, rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm, welcoming people. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it all with Hans by my side. And as we continue our journey, I know that there are still so many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered.