Family Adventure in Assisi

Whispers of Saints and Stone

Today in Assisi felt like stepping back in time, a journey filled with echoes of faith and history. It's hard to believe this is only day two of our family adventure; each moment here is so rich and full. After a restful night at Hotel Porta Nuova, we were eager to explore more of what this beautiful town has to offer.


Discover Hotel Porta Nuova in Assisi: A family-friendly haven with modern amenities, close to historic attractions and vibrant local culture.
Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Trattoria Degli Umbri. The aroma of fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting a perfect tone for the day. Nang and Ananda were particularly charmed by the cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff. Fuelled up, we set off to visit the Basilica di Santa Chiara, a place dedicated to Saint Clare, one of Saint Francis's earliest followers. The basilica is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and its presence dominates the Piazza Santa Chiara. The exterior was beautiful, but the interior was even more breathtaking. The soft light filtering through the stained-glass windows created a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection. We spent a good hour wandering through the basilica, admiring the intricate details of the artwork and the peaceful ambiance. Ananda, surprisingly, was captivated by the story of Saint Clare, a young woman who chose a life of poverty and devotion. It reminded me a bit of the Buddhist principles we try to live by back home, finding peace in simplicity.


Explore the Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, a captivating blend of Gothic architecture and spiritual history, home to St. Clare's legacy.

The things that we love tell us who we are.

Next on our list was the Rocca Maggiore, the imposing fortress that looms over Assisi. The climb up to the fortress was quite a workout, but the panoramic views from the top were worth every step. From up there, we could see the entire town of Assisi spread out before us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops and green hillsides. The expansive views reminded me of the mountain temples back in Lampang. I could almost feel the cool air of the Thai highlands. Nang enjoyed taking photos, capturing the breathtaking scenery from every angle. Ananda, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the fortress's history, imagining the battles and sieges that had taken place within its walls. We learned that Dardust will be performing at the Rocca Maggiore later this month. It would be quite the show to see a modern concert in such a historic setting!


Explore Rocca Maggiore, Assisi's historic fortress, for breathtaking views and a glimpse into Italy's medieval past.
For lunch, we chose Ristorante degli Orti, a charming spot known for its traditional Umbrian cuisine. We sat at an outdoor table, enjoying the warm sunshine and the lively atmosphere. The restaurant is near the Basilica di Santa Chiara, and the food was simply amazing. We started with some bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, followed by homemade pasta with truffle sauce. Nang opted for the grilled chicken, while Ananda went for a hearty lasagna. Everything was delicious, and we savored every bite. The restaurant had many vegetarian options, which was perfect for me. It reminded me of the importance of fresh ingredients, something I always emphasize at my restaurant in Montreal.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Ristorante degli Orti in Assisi – where every meal is a celebration.
After lunch, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the Bosco di San Francesco, a peaceful woodland area located just outside the town walls. The Bosco is a sanctuary of tranquility, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the town and reconnect with nature. We wandered along winding paths, listening to the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. The air was fresh and clean, and the shade of the trees provided welcome relief from the midday sun. We discovered that the FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) often hosts special visits with the director to delve deeper into the history of the Bosco di San Francesco. That is something I would have loved to experience. Ananda was particularly interested in the local flora and fauna, pointing out various plants and insects along the way. It was a reminder of the simple joys of life, something we often forget in our busy modern world.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Bosco di San Francesco in Assisi, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Before dinner, we did a little shopping at Assisi Souvenir. Nang wanted to find a few mementos to take back home, and Ananda was on the lookout for a unique gift for his girlfriend. The shop was filled with all sorts of interesting items, from religious artifacts to local crafts. We ended up buying a small ceramic statue of Saint Francis and a hand-painted plate depicting the Assisi skyline. I picked up a little something for myself as well – a small wooden cross to hang in my restaurant, a reminder of the peace and serenity I found in Assisi.


Explore Assisi Souvenir for unique Italian crafts, clothing, and local delicacies that capture the spirit of Italy.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Ristorante Medioevo Assisi for dinner. The restaurant is located in the heart of Assisi, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The building dates back centuries, and the interior is decorated with medieval-themed artifacts. We ordered a variety of dishes, including roasted lamb, wild boar stew, and homemade ravioli. The food was hearty and flavorful, and we enjoyed every bite. The tiramisu was the perfect end to the meal. The owner, Eleonora, is the chef, and she is very good at what she does. The restaurant is family-run, which created a warm and inviting atmosphere.


Discover the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine at Ristorante Medioevo Assisi, where history meets exceptional dining experiences.
As we walked back to our hotel, the streets of Assisi were quiet and peaceful. The only sounds were the gentle breeze and the distant chiming of church bells. I felt a sense of contentment, a feeling that I was exactly where I was supposed to be. Spending the day exploring the spiritual and natural beauty of Assisi with my family was an experience I will never forget.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Eremo delle Carceri and Mount Subasio. I'm particularly excited about the Eremo, as it's said to be a place where Saint Francis often retreated for prayer and contemplation. Mount Subasio should also offer some spectacular views. Before that, we will grab breakfast at Ristorante Bar San Francesco. And in the evening, perhaps we'll unwind with a drink at Le Delizie del Subasio. It's hard to believe we're already on day two of our trip; time really does fly when you're having fun! I'm looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all soon. Until then, ciao!