Grado: A New Kind of Spa Experience
Grado, Italy is a municipality located in the Friuli-Venezia Guilia region of the country, bordering the Adriatic Sea. Grado is also known as L’Isola del Sole, or “The Sunny Island,” as its pure waters flow from the Marano Lagoon, making it a popular spa town. Trieste Airport in Gorizia is only 40 minutes away from Grado.
Best Time to Visit
November is a good time to visit Grado, Italy to avoid the crowds. The period between April to October is a good time to catch some fair weather. The months from June to August are especially warm months and are the best time for those looking for a summer vacation. Around July, locals celebrate the Madonna del Carmelo a Nocelle in a yearly local celebration.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The Sanctuary of Barbana is a sacred place of worship on a small island secluded from the rest of Grado that is accessed by boat. This Gothic structure venerates the Virgin of Barbana who was said to have saved the city from the plague in the 13th century. Another place of worship is the Basilica of Sant’Eufemia. This basilica has architectural features that have been preserved from as far back as the fourth century, along with statues and frescoes in its interior. For recreation, visitors can play golf at the Grado Golf Club, a large course by the coast. Among the Grado hotels are the Holiday Grado, located near the beach and with rooms that have their own kitchen facilities, and the Old Harbor House, amidst ancient architecture and local pubs. Alternative well booked hotels located within a mile radius from the city center include the Laguna Palace Hotel and the Hotel Fonzari.