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We recently spent about an hour wandering through the Alpine Botanical Garden  on the Cansiglio Plateau . While it’s not necessarily a place to go out of your way, it’s a lovely spot to explore if you’re already in the area. Nestled between the provinces of Belluno, Treviso, and Pordenone, this garden offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The garden spans around 25,000 square meters and is home to nearly 1,000 species of plants. You'll appreciate the variety here if you’re into botany or enjoy quiet nature walks. From alpine environments to wetlands and beech forests, the different habitats greatly showcase the regional flora. The blooms we saw were beautiful, and we were surrounded by towering trees. If you're lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife. One of the cool things about this place is that it’s not just about admiring plants—there’s an educational side, too. The garden has panels that give you insight into the different plant species and environments, adding more depth to the visit. It was designed in 1972 by Professor Giovanni Lorenzoni, and it’s clear that the emphasis was placed on conservation and education. It’s not a giant tourist hotspot, so it was quiet there. But if you’re already exploring the Cansiglio Forest or the surrounding areas, it’s worth popping in for a short visit. Something is refreshing about just walking through and seeing how the garden mirrors the diversity of the larger landscape. Overall, while it may not be a destination in itself, the Alpine Botanical Garden  is a peaceful, educational stop to add to your itinerary if you're nearby and have some time to spare.

After hearing about Parco Grotte del Caglieron , we decided to spend a morning exploring this hidden gem, and it did not disappoint. Just an hour drive from Vittorio Veneto, it felt like stepping into another world—cool caves, cascading waterfalls, and a peaceful vibe that’s perfect for a nature escape. The park is known for its unique mix of natural and artificial caves. As you start on the trail, you first notice the sound of water everywhere. The waterfalls and streams running through the park make it feel like a fairy tale. The path takes you across wooden walkways and bridges, leading you deeper into the gorge, with views of the lush forest and the cave system. It’s an easy walk for the most part, but do watch out for the slippery spots near the water. What makes the Grotte del Caglieron stand out are the caves themselves. Some are natural, but many were carved out by hand centuries ago when sandstone, known locally as Dolza , was quarried here. You can still see the angled stone columns inside the caves, which were cut to support the ceilings during the extraction process. It’s fascinating to walk through and realize that this place was once both a natural wonder and a workplace for the locals. There’s also a lot of history tied to the caves. The Cave di S. Lucio uses some natural caves to age a local cheese, which you can buy at the info point if you want to taste the area. And towards the end of the trail, there’s a bit of a climb. It’s nothing too strenuous, but by the time you reach the top, you feel like you’ve earned the fantastic views of the green valley below. One of the best parts about this visit is how quiet it was. The park isn’t overly crowded, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery without bumping into too many other people. The entrance fee is super reasonable—just €4 for adults—and kids under 12 get in free. It’s open year-round, so you can visit whenever you’re in the area. Whether you’re into caves, waterfalls, or just looking for a peaceful place to explore for a couple of hours, Parco Grotte del Caglieron is worth the stop.

After a morning spent wandering through Venice, we decided to hop on a water bus and head to Murano for the afternoon. The ride itself was a relaxing break —just sitting back and watching the lagoon stretch out as we cruised towards the island. It’s only about a 15-minute ride, but it feels like a world away from the busyness of Venice. You can see in the photo how peaceful it looked as we approached, with colorful buildings lined up along the shore. Once we got off the boat, it didn’t take long to understand why Murano is so famous for its glass. There are shops and galleries filled with stunning glass creations everywhere you look. We walked down the main street, stopping in different galleries to admire the artistry. It’s not just touristy stuff either—some pieces are true works of art, with intricate designs and vibrant colors. We saw everything from delicate glass animals to bold, modern sculptures, each shop more impressive than the last. It’s easy to lose track of time just browsing and appreciating the craftsmanship. One of the best parts of the afternoon was soaking in the island’s slower pace. Murano has a laid-back vibe compared to Venice. After wandering through the galleries, we found a quiet spot for coffee and, of course, some gelato. There’s nothing quite like sitting by the canal, watching boats drift by while you sip your espresso. Though we didn’t dive deep into any of the glassmaking workshops this time, seeing the results of the craft all around us was more than enough to get a sense of the island’s history. The beauty of Murano is that you don’t need a long time to enjoy it—just walking along the water, popping into galleries, and taking in the view is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. By the time we caught the water bus back to Venice, the sun was starting to set, and the light over the lagoon made the trip feel like the perfect end to a day filled with art, beauty, and a little adventure.

We had just a morning to explore Venice, so we skipped the museums and grand tours and focused on what the city does best—its streets, canals, and everyday beauty. No rigid plan, just a few hours to get lost in the maze that is Venice. It was more than enough to fall in love with the place. The first thing we did was dive into the narrow streets, walking alongside the canals. Gondolas were everywhere—those sleek black boats gliding through the water with a certain grace. We didn’t take a ride ourselves (not in the mood for the tourist splurge), but they were definitely a classic Venice moment to witness. A couple of the gondola parking spots along the waterfront made for great photo ops. From there, we ended up in a couple of piazzas, each more charming than the last. The big highlight of the morning was Piazza San Marco — even if you’ve heard a million things about it, seeing it in person is something else. The Basilica di San Marco towers over everything with its domes and detailed mosaics. The square was buzzing with people, but it didn’t feel overwhelming. It’s the heart of Venice, and you can feel the city’s pulse right there. As we wandered away from the main sights, the city got quieter. This is where Venice really shines—down side streets and over little stone bridges, where it’s just you and the sound of the water lapping at the buildings. We crossed the Rialto Bridge at some point and passed by the Rialto Market, which was full of vibrant fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth checking out just for the vibe. We also stopped in a few quirky shops along the way. Venice is full of these little places packed with personality, from intricate masks to unique glass pieces. It’s easy to find something unexpected around every corner. By the time our morning in Venice wrapped up, we found ourselves by the Grand Canal again, watching the waterbuses and gondolas go by. Even with just a few hours, Venice left its mark. And then, it was time to head off to Murano. But that’s a story for another post…

Seeking a break from the rising heat, we decided to explore the Scuola Grande di San Rocco early in the morning. The air conditioning was modest, with only the top floor offering significant relief, but the cool, serene atmosphere inside was refreshing. The highlight of our visit was the second floor, where we admired Tintoretto's magnificent Old Testament paintings that adorned the ceiling. To make the visit engaging for our teens, I turned it into a game, challenging them to identify the biblical scenes. They quickly recognized familiar stories like Noah's Ark, the Sacrifice of Isaac, and the Parting of the Red Sea. This interactive experience brought the art to life and made our visit not just an escape from the heat but also a meaningful connection with our heritage. Despite the less-than-ideal air conditioning, the beauty and historical significance of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco made it a memorable and enriching stop on our Venetian journey.

Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, the High Rope Adventure Park in S. Maddalena/St. Magdalena—Funes/Villnöss offers an exhilarating experience that quite literally elevates your vacation to new heights. Our family stumbled upon this gem by happy accident, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. An Unexpected Adventure We had just finished breakfast at a charming restaurant in St. Magdalena when our original plans fell through. As we pondered alternatives, we realized we were sitting right next to an aerial adventure park. Our teenagers, usually wary of such attractions, surprisingly expressed interest in giving it a try. Safety First Before embarking on our treetop journey, we were thoroughly briefed on safety procedures. The park takes safety seriously, providing helmets and safety harnesses (included in the entrance fee) and requiring all participants to complete a mandatory training course. This attention to safety helped put our minds at ease, especially as parents. Conquering Fears, One Obstacle at a Time The park boasts 12 aerial obstacle courses of varying difficulties, with about 120 individual elements. From wobbly suspension bridges to balance beams and exhilarating zip lines, each challenge offered a unique thrill. What struck us most was how quickly our teens, initially apprehensive, took to the courses. As my young daughter aptly put it, "This place helps to conquer fear by making it fun!" And she was absolutely right. The combination of stunning views of the Geisler/Odle Peaks and the rush of accomplishment at each completed obstacle created an atmosphere of excitement and joy. Perfect for Families The park caters to all ages, with courses suitable for young children to adults. Family pricing options make it an affordable outing for groups. It's worth noting that children under 140 cm must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring safety and providing a great bonding experience. Practical Information Location : Just 50m from the Ranui parking lot in the Villnöß valley Opening Times : Daily from 9 AM to 6 PM (mid-June to mid-September). Other times by appointment only, so call ahead! Prices : Range from €11 for young children to €23 for adults, with family packages available What to Wear : Casual clothing and sneakers or light trekking shoes

Nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, Bolzano serves as the perfect starting point for an enchanting trip to the fascinating Earth Pyramids of Renon. Our journey began in the charming main square of Bolzano, where we savored a delightful lunch before embarking on our adventure. The Scenic Cable Car Ride Our ascent began with a breathtaking cable car ride from Bolzano to Soprabolzano/Oberbozen. As we glided above the terrain, the panoramic views were simply mesmerizing. The city of Bolzano grew smaller below us, while the majestic Dolomites came into full view. The 12-minute ride provided ample time to appreciate the rolling vineyards and lush greenery that blanket the region. A Nostalgic Railway Experience At Soprabolzano, we boarded the charming Rittenbahn, a narrow-gauge railway that has been in operation since 1907. The quaint wooden carriages transported us through alpine meadows and past picturesque villages, offering a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage. This delightful journey took us to Collalbo/Klobenstein. Along the way, we encountered several Italian families enjoying their vacations, taking in the beautiful scenery just as we were. The Final Stretch to the Earth Pyramids From the train station in Klobenstein, we caught bus 165 for a short ride that brought us closer to our destination. The Earth Pyramids: Nature's Masterpiece After a gentle 15-minute walk from the bus stop, we finally reached the Earth Pyramids. These natural wonders, formed over 25,000 years, are a testament to the extraordinary forces of nature. Standing before these terracotta-colored pinnacles, each delicately balanced with a boulder atop, one can't help but marvel at their improbable existence. The Earth Pyramids of Renon are considered among the most beautiful and tallest in Europe. Created by a perfect combination of moraine clay and erosion, these formations continue to evolve, with each rainfall subtly reshaping their appearance. A Moment of Reflection Following our exploration, we discovered a charming café nearby. It provided the perfect setting to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, and reflect on the natural wonders we had witnessed. The Return Journey For our return, we chose to walk the scenic 40-minute path back to the Rittenbahn station in Klobenstein. This leisurely stroll allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area. We then boarded the narrow-gauge railway once again, drinking in the scenery from a different perspective as we traveled back to Soprabolzano. Our day concluded with another spectacular cable car ride back to Bolzano, providing a final opportunity to admire the breathtaking views of South Tyrol. Conclusion This day trip from Bolzano to the Earth Pyramids of Renon offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, historical charm, and serene landscapes. The journey itself, with its combination of modern cable cars, nostalgic trains, and a short bus ride, adds to the adventure. It's an ideal way to experience the beauty of South Tyrol and create lasting memories.

Our journey began in the enchanting town of Sirmione. We wandered through the quaint streets and browsed the charming shops, counting numerous gelaterias along the way. The town, which juts out into Lake Garda like a peninsula, boasts beautiful beaches and scenic views. One of the highlights was a boat tour around Sirmione, offering a unique perspective of its stunning coastline. Apart from the boat tours, Sirmione is home to the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of a Roman villa, and the Scaliger Castle, a 13th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the lake. Next, we headed to Salò for a delightful beachfront lunch. Salò's promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, provides the perfect setting for a relaxing meal by the water. While there, you can explore the historic center and visit the MuSa (Museo di Salò) to learn about the town's history. The weekly market is also a great place to find local products and souvenirs. From there, we traveled to Limone sul Garda, a picturesque village known for its lemon groves. We strolled through the beautiful alleys, captivated by the lemon-themed decorations and the vibrant atmosphere. Limone is a gem with its colorful houses, lush gardens, and historic charm. Don't miss visiting the Limonaia del Castel, a historic lemon house, and taking a hike along the Sentiero del Sole, a scenic trail with breathtaking views of the lake. We ended our day in Riva del Garda, where we enjoyed a delicious pizza dinner. The town, nestled at the northern tip of Lake Garda, offers a lively evening scene with its numerous restaurants and bars. Riva del Garda is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as windsurfing and sailing. You can visit the MAG (Museo Alto Garda) to explore local art and history or hike up to the Bastione, a fortress with stunning views of the lake and town. It was a marvelous day exploring the impressive towns surrounding Lake Garda. Each town has its unique charm and character, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. Lake Garda's surrounding towns offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

If you're looking for a unique and exhilarating experience in nature, Parco Grotta Cascata Varone is the perfect destination. This beautiful park offers an incredible adventure featuring stunning landscapes and an exciting wet experience that you won't forget. From the moment you step into the park, the beauty of the surrounding nature captivates you. The highlight, of course, is the magnificent waterfall cascading through the grotto. As you make your way through the park, you'll find yourself immersed in the soothing sounds of the rushing water and the refreshing mist that fills the air. One tip for visitors: make sure to buy raincoats at the entrance unless you don't mind getting soaked! The mist from the waterfall is quite intense, and you'll definitely feel the spray as you walk through the grotto. But that's all part of the fun! Parco Grotta Cascata Varone is a perfect spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you're into urban exploring, light hikes, or simply enjoying the stunning landscape views, this park has something for everyone. And don't forget to take some time to relax at the charming cafes nearby after your adventure. Overall, our visit to Parco Grotta Cascata Varone was unforgettable. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling fun.

Gardaland is the place to be if you're looking for a thrilling and diverse family adventure in Italy. Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Garda, this expansive amusement park offers a delightful blend of rides, attractions, and entertainment for all age groups. A Park for Everyone Gardaland is vast, with something for everyone. There's no shortage of fun, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to gentle rides for younger children. The park's meticulous theming and immersive experiences make it a captivating destination for all visitors. Legoland Water Park: A Refreshing Oasis Within the amusement park, you'll find Legoland Water Park (additional fee required), a charming and refreshing escape, especially on hot summer days. This area is perfect for a family day out. Although it doesn't boast many attractions, the ones it does have are delightful. Thrill-seekers will love the tall slides where you ride down on inflatable rafts, while the standard water slides offer classic water fun. The lazy river was a favorite of ours. It's a gentle, relaxing ride on rafts, and the floating Lego pieces add a whimsical touch. You'll find impressive Lego models throughout the water park that provide a colorful and imaginative backdrop to the aquatic fun. Our Personal Experience We visited Gardaland with two teenagers, aged 13 and 17. Given the scorching heat, we gravitated towards the water park. Despite the few attractions, we enjoyed every moment, especially the lazy river with its serene pace and playful Lego pieces drifting alongside us. We planned to stay until the cooler evening hours and explore more of the amusement park. However, the exhaustion from a sleepless night due to our flight took its toll, and we decided to call it a day earlier than planned. Nevertheless, our time at the water park was fantastic, providing a much-needed respite from the heat and a fun-filled day. Final Thoughts Gardaland is a top-notch amusement park that promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Gardaland has it all, whether you're seeking a thrill on roller coasters, a cool down in the water park, or a family fun day. We highly recommend visiting, and if you're like us and encounter a particularly hot day, the water park is a refreshing haven you won't want to miss.

In September 2023, we joined a two-day group tour from Eilat to Jordan. We left early in the morning, crossed the border on foot, and were met by our local guide and tour bus on the Jordanian side. Our first stop was Aqaba — a small port city in southern Jordan, located directly across from Eilat. The city tour lasted about two hours and included a short drive around town with stops at several key sites: A viewpoint overlooking the large flag of the Arab Revolt, near the coastline. A short walk through the city center and the local market area. A light meal at a local women's community center. A stop along the waterfront and at the fishing port. Aqaba doesn't feel like a highly developed tourist destination. Still, it does offer a glimpse into everyday life in a typical Jordanian city, with a functioning market, relatively calm streets, and residents going about their business mostly unrelated to tourism. The guide provided general background on the city's history and more recent developments, especially regarding its port and trade ties with neighboring countries. At the women's center, we were served a small meal of traditional Arabic dishes and had the chance to browse a small gift shop operated by the community's women. Although our tour didn't include it, it's worth noting that southern Aqaba features a more tourist-oriented area, with beachfront hotels, both public and private beaches, diving centers, and resort complexes developed mainly over the past two decades. From Aqaba, our journey continued toward Wadi Rum.

After our visit to Aqaba, we continued the tour toward Wadi Rum — a vast desert area in southern Jordan, known for its red sand, towering rock formations, and cinematic landscapes. Several well-known films have been shot here, including scenes meant to portray Mars or distant planets — and it’s easy to understand why. The main part of the visit was a jeep tour through the desert. We drove between massive rock cliffs and through wide, open sand dunes. The colors here are striking — deep red earth, brown cliffs, and a sharp blue sky that made the whole place feel surreal and remote. There were several stops along the way — some for short walks or tea breaks, others where vendors set up stands with souvenirs. At one point, we saw ancient rock carvings estimated to date back to the 5th century BCE. The guide explained their meaning briefly, though the stop itself was short. One part of the visit left a very different impression. We saw camels tied and waiting for tourists. According to our guide, they are intentionally underfed to keep them weak, so they won’t try to run when people ride them. It's hard to hear, and harder to see. If you're planning to visit, we strongly suggest not supporting animal rides. What’s being done to these animals amounts to cruelty, and it’s avoidable. The natural beauty of Wadi Rum is real, not polished or packaged. The scale of the place is hard to convey in photos. The silence, the dry air, and the size of the rock formations give a sense of smallness, but also wonder.