Family Adventures in Friuli-Venezia Giulia

A Day of Wonders in Friuli's Embrace

Today was a day of pure, unadulterated joy, a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of nature's grandeur and delicate beauty. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to surprise and enchant, revealing layers of charm that beckon to be explored. It was a day where time seemed to slow, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the wonders around us.

Our adventure began with a hearty breakfast at Alla Frasca. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to fuel our day. Elena, of course, made a beeline for the pastries, her eyes wide with delight. Maximilian and I enjoyed some local cheese and cured meats, savoring the regional flavors. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery.

With our appetites sated, we set off towards Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane. The drive itself was breathtaking, winding through verdant valleys and alongside towering peaks. The anticipation grew with every turn, and as we finally arrived, the sheer scale of the Dolomites took our breath away. The crisp mountain air invigorated us as we prepared for our hike.

I was excited to finally see Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane! I had always dreamed of hiking in the Dolomites, and this park, a hidden gem away from the crowded tourist trails, was the perfect place to start. We chose a moderate trail, mindful of Elena's little legs, but eager to soak in as much of the landscape as possible. The path led us through lush meadows dotted with wildflowers, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the grey, imposing rock faces above. Elena was in her element, chasing butterflies and collecting interesting stones, her laughter echoing through the valley. Maximilian, ever the photographer, captured the stunning scenery, determined to preserve these memories forever.


Discover the stunning beauty of Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane, a natural paradise filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet whispers of nature.

As we ascended, the views became even more spectacular. The rugged peaks of the Dolomites pierced the sky, their jagged edges softened by the gentle haze of the afternoon sun. I felt a sense of awe and humility in the face of such natural grandeur. It was a moment of pure connection with the earth, a reminder of the power and beauty of the world around us. We paused to catch our breath, drinking in the panoramic vista. Elena, perched on a rock, declared it the most beautiful place she had ever seen. It was hard to disagree.

After our hike, we were ready for a delicious lunch. We drove to San Daniele del Friuli and found L'osteria Di Tancredi, a charming little osteria. The reviews I had read mentioned their San Daniele ham, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that immediately made us feel at home. We were greeted warmly by the owner, who guided us through the menu with obvious pride. We started with a platter of the famous San Daniele ham, its delicate flavor melting in our mouths. Elena enjoyed some tagliolini with San Daniele raw ham. Maximilian and I also shared some frico, a traditional Friulian dish made of cheese and potatoes, a hearty and satisfying treat. The meal was a delightful culinary journey, a true taste of Friuli.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our journey to the House of Bordano Butterfly. Elena was especially thrilled about this, as she has always been fascinated by butterflies. As we approached Bordano, we could already see the colorful murals adorning the buildings, a testament to the town's dedication to these delicate creatures. The butterfly house itself was a magical place, a tropical oasis teeming with life. Hundreds of butterflies fluttered around us, their wings painted with intricate patterns and vibrant hues. Elena squealed with delight as a butterfly landed on her hand, its delicate touch sending shivers of joy down her spine. We wandered through the lush gardens, marveling at the diversity of species. It was an educational and enchanting experience, a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation.


Discover the mesmerizing beauty of butterflies at the House of Bordano Butterfly, a unique attraction in the heart of Italy's scenic landscapes.
The House of Bordano Butterfly was such a treat! It was fascinating to see butterflies from all over the world in one place. Elena was especially captivated by the Atlas moth, the largest moth in the world, its wingspan truly impressive. The staff was knowledgeable and passionate, sharing interesting facts about the butterflies and their habitats. I learned that Bordano is known as the Town of Butterflies, and the locals take great pride in their winged residents. It's wonderful to see a community so dedicated to preserving and celebrating nature.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Udine, ready for dinner. Before dinner, though, we stopped at Gran Caffè Friuli for an aperitivo. The bar was buzzing with locals, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. Maximilian and I enjoyed a glass of Aperol spritz, while Elena sipped on a fruit juice. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day, soaking in the vibrant energy of the city.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Gran Caffè Friuli, where exquisite coffee and local wines create a perfect blend of culture and taste.
Finally, we headed to Ristorante Al Castello for dinner. The restaurant was located in a beautiful setting, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The ambiance was elegant and refined, a perfect setting for a special meal. We started with some local appetizers, savoring the regional flavors. For the main course, Maximilian and I enjoyed some seafood dishes, while Elena opted for a simple pasta. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Al Castello in Cividale del Friuli – a delightful escape into Italy's culinary traditions.
Dinner at Ristorante Al Castello was a culinary masterpiece! The restaurant is known for its traditional Italian specialties, using ingredients sourced from the estate or nearby. The view from the terrace was breathtaking, the setting sun painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a celebration of Friulian cuisine and hospitality.

As we drove back to our accommodation, Elena fell asleep in the backseat, her face flushed with happiness. Maximilian and I exchanged a knowing glance, grateful for the memories we had created together. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life: the beauty of nature, the pleasure of good food, and the love of family. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to enchant us, revealing its hidden treasures one day at a time.

Tomorrow, we're off to Trieste, where we plan to visit the Castello di San Giusto and Crosis waterfall. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Città Fiera. I am looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful region!

Before I close, I have to mention something funny that happened today. As I was packing our bags this morning, I realized I had forgotten Elena's favorite stuffed animal! She was surprisingly understanding, but I made a mental note to buy her a new one as a souvenir. Also, I realized that I forgot an adapter for Italian power outlets, but thankfully Maximilian had packed one.

Until tomorrow,
Sofia