What to See and Do in the Umbra Forest on the Gargano | Guide to Puglia

Good morning! I’m Elisabetta, your personal concierge at BeBari Apartments. Today, I invite you to discover one of Puglia’s most precious natural jewels, the Umbra Forest, located in the heart of the Gargano National Park. This ancient forest is a sanctuary for biodiversity and offers a myriad of activities for all nature lovers. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of enchanting landscapes, outdoor adventures, and educational discoveries.

1. What to See in the Umbra Forest

The Umbra Forest is renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking natural landscapes, offering much more than just a simple walk in the woods: Lago di Umbra: This small and idyllic lake is surrounded by dense vegetation, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. It’s the perfect place to birdwatch, have a picnic, or simply relax to the sounds of nature. Museo Naturalistico della Foresta Umbra: Located near the visitor center, this museum provides a detailed overview of the park’s flora and fauna, as well as the geological history of the Gargano area. It’s a great stop to better understand the local ecosystem before exploring the forest. Eremo di San Michele: This ancient church carved into the rock is accessible via a trail that winds through the forest. It’s a place rich in history and spirituality, perfect for quiet reflection in the forest’s calm.

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2. Interesting Facts About the Umbra Forest

Origin of the Name: The name “Umbra Forest” derives from the Latin “umbra,” meaning “shady,” referring to the density of its thick canopy that filters the sunlight. Cool Climate: Thanks to its altitude and the density of the trees, the temperature inside the forest can be significantly lower than the surrounding areas, especially during the summer, making it a perfect oasis of coolness.

3. Flora and Fauna

The Umbra Forest, located in the heart of the Gargano National Park, is one of Europe’s last primary forests and a true sanctuary of biodiversity. Its rich flora and fauna make this area a point of reference for nature and biology enthusiasts. Here is an in-depth look at the flora and fauna that characterize this beautiful forest:

Flora of the Umbra Forest

1. Beeches (Fagus sylvatica)
   • Dominant in the cooler, more humid areas, beeches form dense and shady forests, creating a cool and damp environment that supports a wide range of other plant and animal species.
2. Turkey Oaks (Quercus cerris)
   • Turkey oaks are common in the lower and drier areas of the forest. These robust trees are essential for biodiversity, providing food and shelter for many animal species.
3. Heldreich’s Pine (Pinus heldreichii)
   • These pines are typical of southern Italy’s mountainous areas and grow in the higher and rockier regions of the Umbra Forest, where the climate and rugged terrain limit the growth of other tree species.
4. Wild Orchids
   • The Umbra Forest is famous for its abundance of wild orchids, with dozens of different species, some of which are endemic to the region. Spring is the best time to see them in bloom, with a myriad of colors and shapes.

Fauna of the Umbra Forest

1. Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
   • Red deer are perhaps the most emblematic animals of the Umbra Forest. These majestic mammals can be seen grazing in the clearings or among the trees, especially at dawn and dusk.
2. Foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
   • Foxes are quite common in the forest and adapt well to different environments. They are elusive creatures and primarily nocturnal.
3. Badgers (Meles meles)
   • Badgers are present in the forest, where their dens are often found in more sheltered slopes. They are sturdy animals and can be seen during the twilight hours.
4. Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major)
   • This woodpecker is easily recognizable by its vibrant plumage and the behavior of pecking at tree trunks in search of insects.
5. Bonelli’s Eagle (Aquila fasciata)
   • Though rarer, Bonelli’s eagle is an exciting sighting for birdwatching enthusiasts. This raptor prefers rocky and forested areas, such as those in the Umbra Forest, for nesting.

Visiting the Umbra Forest offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and relatively untouched ecosystem, where nature continues to follow its millennia-long course. At BeBari Apartments, we’re happy to provide all the information you need to explore this incredible natural heritage in the most respectful and conscious way possible.

4. What to Eat in the Umbra Forest on the Gargano

1. Pane di Monte Sant’Angelo: Similar to Pane di Altamura but with its own characteristics, Pane di Monte Sant’Angelo is made using traditional techniques and local ingredients, giving it a unique flavor that reflects the Gargano terroir.
2. Lampascioni sott’olio: Lampascioni, wild bulbs similar to small onions, are a typical side dish or appetizer in the Gargano region. They are preserved in oil and have a slightly bitter taste, much appreciated on local tables.
3. Olive alla garganica: Olives harvested from the numerous olive groves in the Gargano region are prepared in brine with local herbs and chili peppers, a preservation method that enhances the unique flavor of the local olives.
4. Calzone di cipolla: This calzone is filled with onions, anchovies, and olives, a rustic dish that combines strong and distinctive flavors typical of the Gargano region. It’s particularly popular during festivals and local fairs.
5. Paposcia: Paposcia is a type of bread-pizza that’s very popular in the Gargano region, baked in a wood-fired oven and often stuffed with typical ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella, or fresh tomatoes.

These dishes not only delight the palate but also represent a deep connection with the culture and traditions of the Gargano region. During your stay at BeBari Apartments, don’t miss the chance to explore the diverse gastronomic offerings of this wonderful area, where each bite tells the story of the land and the people who inhabit it.

5. Hiking and Biking Trails

The Umbra Forest, with its varied landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers a range of hiking and biking trails that cater to both beginners and experts. Here’s a detailed list of the trails, with information on their distance and difficulty level:

Hiking Trails

1. Orchid Trail
   • Distance: 5 km
   • Difficulty Level: Easy
   • Description: This trail is perfect for families and beginners, offering a pleasant walk through areas rich in wild orchids and other floral species, especially lush in spring.
2. Wolf Trail
   • Distance: 12 km
   • Difficulty Level: Difficult
   • Description: Suitable for those looking for a more challenging adventure, this trail ventures into the wilder areas of the forest, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer and foxes.
3. Charcoal Burner Trail
   • Distance: 8 km
   • Difficulty Level: Moderate
   • Description: This trail is named after the ancient charcoal production practices that took place in this area. The path, set among old beech and oak forests, is ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the natural history of the area.

Biking Trails

1. Monte Sacro Circuit
   • Distance: 20 km
   • Difficulty Level: Moderate
   • Description: This circular route offers breathtaking views of the Gargano region and crosses various types of vegetation, making it perfect for cyclists with a moderate level of experience.
2. Hermitage Tour
   • Distance: 15 km
   • Difficulty Level: Moderate-Difficult
   • Description: Starting from the visitor center, this trail passes by the Hermitage of San Michele and offers technical challenges for experienced cyclists, with some sections requiring good maneuvering skills and endurance.
3. Forest Crossing
   • Distance: 25 km
   • Difficulty Level: Difficult
   • Description: The longest and most challenging biking route in the Umbra Forest, ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking an extreme adventure through various types of terrain.

Each trail provides a unique experience, allowing you to explore the beauty and variety of the Umbra Forest. Remember to prepare adequately for each trail, bringing plenty of water, wearing suitable shoes, and, if necessary, using trekking or cycling equipment. At BeBari Apartments, we’re always available to provide you with more information and assistance to plan your adventure in the nature of the Gargano region. Make the most of your visit to the Umbra Forest with these excursions designed to immerse you completely in the splendid nature of Puglia!

From BeBari to the Umbra Forest: Begin Your Discovery!

The Umbra Forest is a place where nature expresses itself in all its splendor, offering a unique and rejuvenating experience for both body and soul. At BeBari Apartments, we’re ready to provide you with all the necessary information to plan your adventure in this enchanting corner of Puglia, ensuring you have a comfortable and discovery-rich stay. The Umbra Forest awaits to show you the wonders of the Gargano region!