Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

Underground Wonders and Medieval Majesty

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the depths of the earth to the heights of history. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to surprise and delight with its diverse offerings. David and Emily were especially excited about today's itinerary, and I was eager to experience these new adventures with them.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Al Tirassegno. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We enjoyed a traditional Friulian breakfast, fueling up for our subterranean adventure. It's amazing how different the culinary experiences are here compared to what I'm used to making at home in Stratford; perhaps I'll try my hand at some of these dishes when we return. I must remember to buy a cookbook before we leave. This morning, I made sure not to forget my camera, determined to capture the wonders that awaited us.

First on the agenda was the Grotta Gigante, a cave that lives up to its name. As we approached, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The entrance was unassuming, but I knew that a vast, awe-inspiring world lay beneath. We met our guide, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local who clearly loved sharing the cave's secrets. The descent began, a seemingly endless series of steps leading into the earth's embrace.

The Grotta Gigante truly is gigante! The sheer scale of the main cavern is breathtaking; it's hard to believe such a vast space exists hidden beneath the surface. Stalactites hung like chandeliers from the ceiling, and stalagmites rose from the floor like ancient monuments. Our guide explained the geological processes that formed these incredible formations over millions of years. Emily was fascinated, peppering the guide with questions about the cave's history and the creatures that once called it home. It was easy to lose track of time in the cool, damp air, surrounded by the silent grandeur of nature's artistry. The temperature inside the cave was a constant 11°C, a welcome respite from the chilly December air outside.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Grotta Gigante, one of the largest caves in the world, located near Trieste, Italy. A must-visit natural attraction!

The earth has music for those who listen.

Emerging from the Grotta Gigante, blinking in the sunlight, we felt like we'd stepped out of another world. After such an awe-inspiring morning, we were all ravenous. We drove to Gorizia, eager to sample the local cuisine at Ristorante San Michele. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the aroma of traditional dishes filled the air. I opted for a hearty plate of gnocchi with a rich, savory sauce, while David chose a seafood dish featuring the freshest catch of the day. Emily, ever adventurous, tried a local specialty she'd never had before. Lunch was a delightful experience, a true taste of Friulian flavors.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore Gorizia Castle. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the castle has a rich and storied past. Its construction dates back to the 11th century, and it has been modified and expanded over the centuries. As we walked through the castle's ancient walls, I imagined the countless historical events that had unfolded within them.

The views from the castle ramparts were simply stunning. We could see the entire city of Gorizia spread out below us, with the rolling hills of Friuli stretching into the distance. The crisp December air added a touch of magic to the scene, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. David, ever the history buff, regaled us with tales of the castle's past, its sieges and battles, its moments of glory and despair. It was fascinating to learn about the castle's role in shaping the region's history. I learned that the castle was used as a prison and barracks in the 17th century. It suffered damage during World War I and was later restored.


Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Gorizia Castle, a stunning medieval fortress overlooking the picturesque landscapes of Gorizia, Italy.

After soaking in the history and the views, we decided to unwind with a drink at Bar Zanzibar. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly locals while sipping on Aperol spritzes. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Ai Celti, drawn in by its reputation for traditional Friulian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic ambiance. We savored every bite of our meal, enjoying the rich flavors and the company of my family. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the depths of the Grotta Gigante to the heights of Gorizia Castle, Friuli-Venezia Giulia has captivated us with its beauty and its history. Tomorrow, we're off to Duino Castle and the Sanctuary of Monte Lussari. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Sanctuary of Monte Lussari, as I've heard the views from there are simply breathtaking. We also plan to do some shopping at Torri D'Europa. I’m hoping to find some unique souvenirs to remind us of our time here. I think I will buy a power adapter for Italian outlets, as I forgot to pack one.

It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, connecting us to new places, new cultures, and new experiences. I'm so glad I decided to share these adventures with David and Emily; their presence makes every experience even more special. As I drift off to sleep tonight, I'll be dreaming of caves and castles, and all the wonders that tomorrow may bring.