Family Adventures in Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Trieste's Heights and Hidden Depths

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of historical exploration and natural wonders. We started our morning in Trieste, soaking in the city's rich past, and ended it chasing waterfalls tucked away in the serene Friulian countryside. It's amazing how much beauty and history this region holds, and I'm so excited to share our experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at L'osteria del Borgo. It was a delightful start, fueling us up for a day of exploration. The osteria had a lovely, rustic charm, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. Elena especially loved the fresh pastries, and Maximilian enjoyed a strong Italian coffee to kickstart his day.

With our stomachs full, we headed towards the Castello di San Giusto. The castle sits atop a hill overlooking Trieste, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. As we walked up, I couldn't help but imagine all the historical events that had unfolded on this very spot. The climb was a bit steep, but Elena was excited and skipped ahead, eager to explore the ancient fortress.


Explore the rich history and stunning views of Castello di San Giusto, a majestic fortress and museum in the heart of Trieste, Italy.

The Castello di San Giusto is more than just a castle; it's a symbol of Trieste's complex history. Built by the Habsburgs in the 15th century, it stands on the site of a Roman settlement, Tergeste. As we wandered through the castle grounds, we discovered remnants of the Roman basilica, a testament to the city's ancient roots. The castle museum housed a fascinating collection of artifacts, from medieval weapons to Venetian art. Maximilian, with his love for history, was in his element, reading every inscription and examining each artifact with keen interest. Elena, on the other hand, was captivated by the suits of armor, imagining herself as a brave knight.

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

Exploring the castle took us a few hours, and by lunchtime, we were ready for a break. We drove to Gemona del Friuli, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Julian Alps, for lunch at Ristorante Ai Celti. The restaurant was a delightful surprise, serving traditional Friulian cuisine with a modern twist. I opted for the fish, while Maximilian chose the pasta. Elena, always a fan of simple flavors, enjoyed a plate of spaghetti carbonara. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.

After lunch, we set off in search of the Crosis waterfall, a hidden waterfall near Tarcento. The drive was scenic, winding through lush green valleys and picturesque villages. As we got closer, the road narrowed, and we had to park the car and walk the rest of the way. The trail to the waterfall was short but enchanting, leading us through a dense forest filled with the sounds of birds and the gentle rush of water.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Crosis Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in the Province of Udine, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The Cascate di Crosis were a true hidden gem. The waterfall is not entirely natural; it was created in the early 1900s with the construction of a small dam. However, the result is stunning. The water cascades down a 15-meter drop into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by lush vegetation. It felt like stepping into a secret paradise.

Elena was ecstatic. She immediately wanted to dip her toes in the water, and soon, she was splashing around with glee. Maximilian and I sat on a nearby rock, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the rushing water and the occasional bird call. It was a perfect moment of peace and connection with nature.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head back to Udine. But first, a little retail therapy was in order. We stopped at Città Fiera, a large shopping center just outside Udine. It's massive, with over 200 shops, and a wide range of restaurants and entertainment options. Elena was thrilled to visit the Disney store, while Maximilian and I browsed through some of the local boutiques. It was a fun way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.


Discover Città Fiera: A vibrant shopping mall in Martignacco with a mix of trendy stores and delicious dining options for the perfect day out.

For dinner, we chose Hostaria Alla Tavernetta in Udine, a restaurant known for its traditional Friulian cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. Maximilian and I decided to try some local specialties, while Elena opted for a familiar favorite. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria Alla Tavernetta in Udine - where tradition meets taste for an unforgettable dining experience.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Riserva Naturale Regionale del Lago di Cornino and the Tagliamento River. I've heard that the lake is a haven for birdwatchers, and I'm excited to see if we can spot some rare species. We'll also be having dinner at Ristorante Farroni San Daniele, which I am really looking forward to. And maybe, just maybe, we'll find a cozy little bar like Bar Al Got to wind down the evening.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. From the historical heights of Trieste to the hidden depths of the Crosis waterfall, today was a day filled with unforgettable moments. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” It was true both literally and figuratively today as we scaled the hill to Castello di San Giusto and discovered the hidden beauty of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

Good night from Italy!