Foresta Umbra
In the middle of the Gargano Promontory is the majestic Foresta Umbra (Shady Forest), a dense growth of beech, maple, pine, and oak generally found in more northerly climates, thriving here because of the altitude, which reaches 3,200 feet above sea level. Between the trees in this national park are occasional dramatic vistas opening out over the Golfo di Manfredonia. There are nature trails and picnic areas easily reached from Vieste, Peschici, and Mattinata. A seasonal lakeside visitor center (bike hire and guide hikes available) and Museo Naturalistico della Foresta Umbra, offers information, a small natural history exhibition and family-friendly deer-feeding area.
