Family Adventures in Friuli-Venezia Giulia

A Day of Discovery in Friuli’s Embrace

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region that continues to surprise and enchant us at every turn. From serene natural oases teeming with life to breathtaking mountain vistas, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments. It’s these kinds of days that remind me why I started this blog – to share the magic of discovering places that often get overlooked.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Trattoria Al Collio Trieste. Maximilian and Elena were particularly excited about starting the day with some proper Italian coffee. The restaurant had a lovely, traditional feel, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I opted for a simple cappuccino and a pastry, while Maximilian enjoyed an espresso and Elena had some juice with a brioche. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our adventures.


Savor authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Al Collio in Trieste, where fresh seafood meets traditional recipes in a charming atmosphere.

After breakfast, we set off for the Nature Oasis of Quadris. This protected natural area is a part of the European Natura 2000 network, and it's easy to see why. As we drove closer, the landscape transformed into a lush, green haven. The oasis is located near Fagagna, and it’s a mosaic of different natural environments, from submerged plants to hydrophilic woods.


Explore the breathtaking Nature Oasis of Quadris, a serene nature preserve in Fagagna, offering tranquility and rich biodiversity for all nature lovers.

Elena was particularly excited about the storks. The oasis is home to a reintroduction program for white storks and also hosts a colony of hermit ibis. We learned that the hermit ibis was one of the first animals to become a protected species. It was fascinating to see these birds thriving in a protected environment. Maximilian, ever the curious one, was engrossed in reading about the conservation efforts and the unique ecosystem of the oasis.

We spent a couple of hours wandering through the oasis, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Elena loved spotting the Konik horses, which are direct ancestors of the Eurasian wild horses. There are picnic areas available, and it was indeed a great experience for adults, but even more so for children because they have the opportunity to enjoy a carefree experience in contact with Nature, learning to respect and love animals and the environment.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Leaving the serene oasis, we drove towards Monte Cuar. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Friulian plains. As we ascended, the air became crisper, and the landscape transformed into a more rugged terrain. Monte Cuar is located in the Carnic Pre-Alps, and the hike to the top promised breathtaking views.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Monte Cuar, a stunning nature preserve in Udine, perfect for hiking and experiencing the tranquility of the outdoors.

The hike was challenging but rewarding. The trail was well-marked, and we took our time, stopping frequently to catch our breath and admire the scenery. Elena, surprisingly, was quite the trooper, though Maximilian ended up carrying her for a portion of the climb. As we neared the summit, the views opened up, revealing the entire Friulian plain stretching out before us. On a clear day, they say you can even see the sea, but today, the haze obscured the distant horizon.

Reaching the summit of Monte Cuar was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views were simply stunning. To the east, we could see Gemona, with Monte Chiapon and Monte Cuarnan in the distance. The vastness of the landscape made me feel incredibly small yet connected to something much larger than myself.

After soaking in the views, we began our descent. The way down was a bit easier on the lungs, but tougher on the knees. We took a slightly different path, which led us through a charming alpine meadow. It was a perfect spot for a quick snack break. I had packed some local cheese and bread, which we enjoyed while sitting on a large rock, surrounded by wildflowers.

By the time we reached the bottom, we were all quite tired, but the sense of accomplishment and the memories we had made were well worth the effort. It's these moments of shared experience that strengthen our bond as a family, and I cherish them deeply.

Our next stop was Ristorante Centopassi in San Daniele del Friuli for lunch. This restaurant is fairly new, having opened in February 2023, and it’s making waves for its innovative seafood cuisine. Chef Stefano Comello is passionate about using fresh, high-quality ingredients and creating unique flavor combinations that highlight the region's culinary heritage. It's innovative because it is located in an area known for its Prosciutto Crudo San Daniele, and Centopassi is trying to break the myth that good seafood can only be eaten at the seaside.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Centopassi in San Daniele del Friuli, where every dish tells a story.

We started with an appetizer of raw fish, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For the main course, Maximilian and I both opted for the seafood pasta, while Elena chose a simple grilled fish dish. Everything was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented our day of exploration.

As the day wound down, we decided to stop by Di Palo in Frasca for a relaxing drink. This charming bar in San Daniele del Friuli is known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent selection of local wines and beers. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our day.


Experience authentic Italian hospitality and savor the flavors of Friuli at Di Palo in Frasca, a charming bar in San Daniele del Friuli.

We sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air and sipping on some local Friulian wine. Elena, of course, had a juice box. The atmosphere was lively, with locals chatting and laughing, and it felt like we were truly immersed in the local culture. The owner was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the region and offering recommendations for our upcoming adventures.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Rilke trail and Gorizia Castle. I’ve heard that the Rilke trail offers stunning coastal views, and I’m excited to capture some beautiful photos. We’ll also be stopping at the Centro Commerciale Terminal Nord for a bit of shopping.

Finally, for dinner, we have a reservation at L'Argine a Vencò, which I am particularly excited about, as I've heard wonderful things about their innovative and locally-sourced cuisine. I am also keen to try some wines from their wine list.

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel – discovering new places, connecting with nature, and sharing unforgettable moments with loved ones. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to captivate us with its beauty and charm, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It's been an incredible journey so far, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to share it with you all. Until tomorrow, ciao!