Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of Nature

Today was a beautiful blend of history and nature as we ventured further into the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It’s incredible how much this region has to offer, from imposing historical sites to tranquil natural escapes. With David and Emily by my side, I knew it would be a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Alla Frasca in Osoppo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the cozy ristorante, setting the perfect tone for the adventures that lay ahead. After breakfast, we set off to explore the Forte di Osoppo, a site steeped in history.


Explore the majestic Forte di Osoppo, a historic fortress in the Province of Udine, blending rich history with breathtaking natural beauty.

Forte di Osoppo: A Journey Through Time

The Forte di Osoppo, or Fuart di Osôf in Friulian, stands as a powerful reminder of the region's strategic importance throughout history. As we approached the fortress, I was immediately struck by its commanding presence, perched high on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape. The crisp December air added a certain gravitas to the experience, making the ancient stones feel even more venerable.

The history of Osoppo Fort dates back to the end of the Middle Ages. It has been a site of conflict and defense for centuries. The fort was involved in the clashes between the Republic of Venice and the Habsburg Empire. It also played a role during the Risorgimento revolutionary movements in March 1848, when locals drove out Austrian garrisons. The fort successfully resisted Austrian counter-attacks for almost seven months.

Exploring the fortress with David and Emily, I couldn't help but imagine the soldiers who once stood guard here, defending their land. The complex is a network of defensive works, tunnels and entrenchments. We walked along the access path made by Napoleon’s soldiers in the early 19th century, which leads to the top. From the vantage point on the east side, we enjoyed a beautiful view over the town of Gemona del Friuli.

Emily, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the various tunnels and chambers within the fort. David, with his background as a history teacher, provided insightful commentary about the fort's role in various historical periods. I enjoyed capturing the panoramic views with my camera, trying to encapsulate the essence of this historical landmark.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

The chill in the air prompted us to keep moving, but the historical significance of the site lingered in our minds. Declared a national monument in 1923, the fort was demilitarized in 1951 and is now a site for cultural events.

A Culinary Pause at L'osteria Di Tancredi

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

After immersing ourselves in history, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We drove to San Daniele del Friuli and found ourselves at L'osteria Di Tancredi. This charming osteria, run by a mother and daughter, is known for its traditional Friulian cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of authentic flavors were too inviting to resist.

As we stepped inside, the aroma of local dishes filled the air. The restaurant was small and intimate. The friendly staff welcomed us warmly. We settled into a cozy corner and perused the menu, which featured a variety of regional specialties.

David opted for the *brovada e muset*, a traditional dish of turnips in marc and *cotechino* sausage, while Emily, always eager to try new things, chose the *cjarsons*, a type of sweet and savory ravioli typical of the Carnia region. I decided on the *gnocchi di susine*, plum gnocchi, a dish I had heard so much about. Each dish was a testament to the region's culinary heritage, prepared with love and attention to detail.

The meal was not just about the food; it was about the experience. We savored each bite, appreciating the flavors and textures that told a story of Friuli-Venezia Giulia's rich culinary traditions. The warm and inviting atmosphere of L'osteria Di Tancredi made it a perfect interlude in our day of exploration.

Val Rosandra Nature Reserve: A Breath of Fresh Air

Discover the serene landscapes and rich biodiversity of Val Rosandra Nature Reserve, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Trieste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we journeyed to our next destination: the Val Rosandra Nature Reserve. Located near Trieste, this reserve is a hidden gem where the alpine terrain meets the sea. As we drove closer, the landscape transformed, revealing dramatic limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls.

The Val Rosandra Nature Reserve, established in 1996, spans approximately 746 hectares in the municipality of San Dorligo della Valle. The Rosandra stream carves through the valley, creating a unique ecosystem where Central European and Mediterranean species coexist.

We parked the car and began our hike along one of the many trails. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. The reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna.

As we walked, we came across the ruins of a Roman aqueduct, a testament to the area's rich history. The path led us to a stunning 36-meter waterfall, where the water cascaded down the rocks with a soothing sound. Emily was particularly thrilled by the waterfall, and we spent a good while taking photos and enjoying the view.

The reserve offers a variety of activities, including trekking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The trails cater to different fitness levels, making it accessible for families like ours. We opted for a moderate hike, enjoying the panoramic views of Trieste and the Adriatic Sea. The sunny northeast slope has a warm temperate climate, while the southwest slope has a colder climate. The Bora wind blows through the valley, creating a varied microclimate.

The landscape was breathtaking. The combination of the alpine terrain and the sea views made it a truly unique experience. We explored caves with ancient inscriptions and ruins of castles. The former railway line, now a cycling path, added another layer of interest to the reserve.

An Evening Toast at Enoteca Osteria Ai Barnabiti

Explore the authentic flavors of Friulian cuisine at Enoteca Osteria Ai Barnabiti – a perfect blend of local dishes and exquisite wines in Udine.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to stop for a drink at Enoteca Osteria Ai Barnabiti in Udine. This charming spot is known for its selection of local wines and its cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

The Enoteca Osteria Ai Barnabiti is located in the historic center of Udine. The interior has a rustic design, with wooden tables and antique cabinets. Proverbs in Friulian adorn the walls. We settled at a table and ordered a round of local wines. David chose a robust red, while Emily and I opted for a crisp white. We also ordered a selection of *cicchetti*, small snacks, to accompany our drinks.

As we sipped our wine, we reminisced about the day's highlights. From the historical depths of Forte di Osoppo to the natural beauty of Val Rosandra, it had been a day of diverse and enriching experiences. We laughed, shared stories, and felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region together.

Tomorrow, we’re off to Udine Castle and Monte Stella. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us in this enchanting region.

For now, *a dopo* from Friuli-Venezia Giulia!