Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

A Day of Remembrance and Renewal

Today was a day of stark contrasts, a poignant reminder of history's weight and nature's enduring beauty. We started with a visit to the Military Memorial Redipuglia, a place of somber reflection, and ended amidst the breathtaking Pozze Smeraldine, a true gem of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It was a day that stirred deep emotions and left me feeling both humbled and invigorated.


Explore the Military Memorial Redipuglia, a poignant tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I, surrounded by serene landscapes and rich history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Primula. David and Emily both enjoyed the buffet, while I opted for a simple pastry and cappuccino. It's funny how even the simplest things, like a good cup of coffee, can set the tone for the day. After breakfast, we set out for the Military Memorial Redipuglia.

The sheer scale of the Military Memorial Redipuglia is difficult to comprehend until you stand before it. Row upon row of names, etched in stone, a testament to the countless lives lost during World War I. As we walked along the Via Eroica, the stone-paved road leading to the tombs, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of sadness and respect. The cold December air seemed to carry the whispers of the past, a chilling reminder of the sacrifices made on these very grounds.

We paused at the tombs of the generals, including Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Aosta, a somber reminder of the high cost of war. The weight of history pressed down on us as we climbed the 22 steps, each representing a fallen soldier. The word Presente inscribed on each step was a haunting echo of lives cut short.

Visiting the small chapel and the museum rooms offered a glimpse into the lives of those who fought and perished. The photographs, documents, and war relics painted a vivid picture of the past, a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict. It was an emotional experience, one that left us all in quiet contemplation.

Visiting Redipuglia is a stark reminder of the past, urging us to remember the sacrifices made for peace and to strive for a future free from conflict.

After a morning of solemn reflection, we sought solace in nature's embrace. Our next destination was the Pozze Smeraldine, a place I had eagerly anticipated visiting. The drive itself was a treat, winding through picturesque valleys and quaint villages. As we approached Tramonti di Sopra, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of mountains and forests.


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

The hike to the Pozze Smeraldine was a welcome change of pace, a chance to stretch our legs and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The trail was easy enough for all of us, even with the slight chill in the air. As we rounded a bend, the emerald pools came into view, shimmering like jewels amidst the rugged terrain.

The Pozze Smeraldine are a true natural wonder, a series of crystal-clear pools cascading down the mountainside. The water's unique color, a mesmerizing blend of green and blue, is due to the way the sunlight reflects off the minerals in the water. Despite the December chill, the beauty of the landscape was undeniable. I could only imagine how inviting these pools would be during the summer months.

Emily, ever the adventurous one, couldn't resist dipping her toes into the icy water. David and I watched, amused, as she shrieked with laughter at the initial shock. It was a moment of pure joy, a reminder that even amidst the solemnity of our trip, there's always room for lighthearted fun.

After our invigorating hike, it was time for a well-deserved lunch. We headed to Trattoria Alla Vedova, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Venetian cuisine. Though technically in Venice, it was worth the short detour for a taste of authentic flavors.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Alla Vedova in Udine, where traditional recipes meet exceptional hospitality.

The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. We managed to snag a cozy table and ordered a selection of local specialties. I opted for the sardine in saor, a classic Venetian dish of sardines, onions, and raisins. David chose the octopus stewed in tomato sauce, while Emily, ever adventurous, went for the spaghetti alla busera, a spicy shrimp scampi.

The food was simply divine, bursting with fresh flavors and cooked to perfection. The sardine in saor was a revelation, the sweetness of the raisins complementing the savory sardines. David raved about his octopus stew, while Emily declared her spaghetti alla busera the best she'd ever had. The meal was a true culinary delight, a perfect way to end our afternoon.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We made a stop at Centro Commerciale Terminal Nord, a large shopping mall in Udine. It was a welcome change of pace, a chance to browse the shops and pick up a few souvenirs.


Discover Centro Commerciale Terminal Nord in Udine: A vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores and delightful dining options for every visitor.

The mall was bustling with activity, shoppers eager to find the perfect gifts for the upcoming holidays. Emily made a beeline for the clothing stores, while David browsed the sporting goods section. I found myself drawn to a small shop selling local handicrafts, where I purchased a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl. It will be a lovely reminder of our time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, I thought.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to L'Argine a Vencò for dinner, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and connection to the region. The restaurant is located in a beautifully restored old mill, just a few miles from the Slovenian border. The setting was idyllic, a peaceful oasis amidst the rolling countryside.


Discover culinary artistry at L'Argine a Vencò, where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an unforgettable fine dining experience.

Antonia Klugmann, the chef and owner, has created a truly special dining experience. Her cuisine is both sophisticated and innovative, showcasing the freshest local ingredients. We opted for the Life in Motion tasting menu, a ten-course culinary journey that reflected the season and the available produce.

Each dish was a work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures that delighted the senses. From the beef carpaccio with bone marrow and cavolo nero to the baccalá with Jerusalem artichokes and smoked herring, every bite was an explosion of taste. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through each course with grace and enthusiasm.

The wine list was equally impressive, featuring a wide selection of local wines. The sommelier, Romano, expertly paired each dish with a complementary wine, enhancing the overall dining experience. It was a truly unforgettable meal, a fitting end to a day of remembrance and rejuvenation.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the solemnity of the Military Memorial Redipuglia to the natural beauty of the Pozze Smeraldine and the culinary delights of Trattoria Alla Vedova and L'Argine a Vencò, it had been a day of stark contrasts, a reminder of the complexities of life.

Tomorrow marks the end of our journey through Friuli-Venezia Giulia. We plan to visit the Castello Savorgnan di Artegna and the Trieste War Memorial, and perhaps enjoy a drink at Urban's Bar before heading home. It's been an incredible adventure, one that I will cherish for years to come. I am so grateful that I was able to share it with David and Emily.