Family Adventures in Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Hidden Gems and Sparkling Waters: Our Last Day in Friuli

As our family adventure in Friuli-Venezia Giulia draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve shared. From the rolling vineyards to the charming villages, this region has captured our hearts. Today, our final day, was no exception, filled with historical discoveries and natural beauty that left us in awe. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that tomorrow we’ll be heading back to Bielefeld, but the memories we’ve made here will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante La Pergola in Muggia. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, instantly waking us up and preparing us for the day’s adventures. Elena, as always, was excited about the prospect of exploring new places, and Maximilian and I were equally eager to soak in the last moments of our Italian getaway.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the Muggia Vecchia Archaeological Park. The park is located on a hill, and the views overlooking the Adriatic Sea were simply breathtaking. As we walked through the ancient ruins, I couldn’t help but imagine what life must have been like centuries ago. The remnants of Roman and medieval settlements were fascinating to explore, and Elena was particularly intrigued by the mosaics and old stone walls.

The Muggia Vecchia Archaeological Park was once an ancient hamlet inhabited until the end of the 15th century. Now transformed into an archaeological park, it offers visitors educational itineraries with detailed information panels to learn about Roman and Late Antique artifacts. We explored remains of buildings, mosaics, tombs, and the ancient city walls. The only surviving building of the ancient settlement is the basilica, now the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, showcasing medieval architecture and art.


Explore the Muggia Vecchia Archaeological Park, a captivating historical site showcasing ancient ruins and stunning coastal views near Trieste, Italy.

Traveling is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new cultures and creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

I found myself particularly drawn to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful basilica that stands as the only surviving structure from the ancient settlement. Inside, we admired the medieval frescoes and the remnants of Roman architecture, a testament to the rich history of this area. Elena, with her boundless curiosity, peppered us with questions about the people who once lived here, making the experience even more engaging. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, shared interesting facts and anecdotes, bringing the past to life for both Elena and me. It was a wonderful moment of connection, bridging the gap between generations and cultures.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to head to the Pozze Smeraldine, natural emerald pools nestled in the mountains. The drive was scenic, with winding roads offering stunning views of the Friulian landscape. As we approached the pools, the vibrant turquoise color of the water was simply mesmerizing. Despite the slightly cooler temperature, we couldn’t resist taking a dip. The water was refreshing and invigorating, and Elena squealed with delight as she splashed around, completely carefree.


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

Pozze Smeraldine are a series of natural emerald pools, offering a serene escape into nature. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. We hiked along the trails, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing memorable photos.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the area, hiking along the trails and taking in the breathtaking views. The peace and tranquility of the Pozze Smeraldine were a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our journey. As we sat by the water's edge, Elena skipped stones, and Maximilian and I simply enjoyed the serenity of the moment, grateful for the opportunity to share such a special experience with our daughter.

Before heading back to Muggia, we stopped at a local shop, “I Profumi del Bosco”, which translates to “Scents of the Forest,” and bought some handmade soaps. The shop was filled with the most amazing fragrances, all derived from natural ingredients found in the surrounding forests. I picked up a lavender soap for myself and a honey soap for Elena, hoping to bring a little piece of Friuli back home with us. The shop was a treasure trove of natural products, each one handcrafted with love and care. It was a delightful sensory experience, and I appreciated the opportunity to support local artisans and bring home a piece of Friuli's natural beauty.


Discover artisanal soaps and unique crafts at I Profumi del Bosco in Venzone, a must-visit gem for tourists in Friuli Venezia Giulia.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Trattoria Al Teatro in Muggia. This charming restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local specialties. We savored traditional Friulian dishes, accompanied by a glass of regional wine. Elena enjoyed a simple pasta dish, while Maximilian and I indulged in a seafood risotto that was bursting with flavor. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Savor authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Al Teatro in San Daniele del Friuli - a culinary experience not to be missed!

In the evening, we had our farewell dinner at Al Tirassegno, a restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning views of the sea. As we savored our meal, we watched the sunset over the Adriatic, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to our Friulian adventure. We raised our glasses in a toast to the memories we had created, the friendships we had forged, and the experiences that had enriched our lives. It was a poignant moment, filled with gratitude and a touch of melancholy, knowing that our time in this beautiful region was coming to an end.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Al Tirassegno in San Daniele del Friuli—where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Bielefeld, filled with cherished memories of our time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been an opportunity to connect with each other, discover new cultures, and create lasting memories. As we prepare to leave, I know that a part of us will always remain in this beautiful corner of Italy, and I hope that one day, we’ll have the chance to return and explore even more of its hidden treasures.

As I reflect on our time here, I’m reminded of how important it is to embrace new experiences and step outside of our comfort zones. Traveling allows us to see the world through different eyes, to appreciate the beauty that exists in every corner of the globe, and to connect with people from all walks of life. It’s an investment in ourselves, in our families, and in our understanding of the world. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Final Thoughts

As our journey ends, I can’t help but feel grateful for the time we spent in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. From its historical sites to its natural wonders, this region has offered us a unique and unforgettable experience. Until next time, arrivederci!