The Sea and Nature

In this territory nature still reigns supreme. Sea, mountains and forests offer splendid panoramas, and suggestive views. The roads and the suburbs appear to have been designed by nature itself and the area has been protected and nurtured by man as a demonstration of the respect felt for the peace and the sacredness of these places. The National Park of Gargano dominates over this area that covers 120.000 hectares and welcomes innumerable habitats. It is home to all the species found in the Mediterranean basin. Many activities are organized by the visitor centres, and the various community organizations that provide education and guided tours which testify to the beautiful and rich of history of the art and culture of the Mediterranean. There are also itineraries and excursions in which one can engage his favourite interests: sporting, naturalistic, eno-gastronomic, historical, artistic and religious. Inside the Park there is the Reserve Marina of the Tremiti Islands. The archipelago is composed of three islands (St. Domino, St. Nicola and Capraia), and a small island (Cretaccio) with rock-cliffs. The jagged and rich coast of caves offers unforgettable sceneries. For the one who seeks the quiet peace of meditation, there is the Regional Natural Park called Wood of the Crowned Madonna.
It is situated along the Cervaro stream and it covers an area of 320 hectares and a type of wood similar to the white poplar, elm and ash. In this area legend says that the Crowned Madonna appeared here, it is for this reason that the Sanctuary of the Crowned Madonna was built precisely where she is said to have visited the faithful. In front of the "Sacred Oak Tree" many saints and pilgrims have come to pray including St. Francis of Assissi, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Vincent Ferreri and St. Gerald. In 1916, Padre Pio of Pietrelcina visited here and more recently Pope John Paul II. For those who relish walks in the woods, this area is a paradise. Trails take you through the mountains and valleys of the Subappennino Dauno. There is also the Lake of Varano, with a perimeter of around 37 kilometres and a surface of 60,5 Kms; it is the largest in southern Italy. For birdwatching the Lake of Lesina, is a haven characterized by free expanses of water and typical formations of brackish lagoons. It is an important environment for the sea crow, garzetta, little egrits, paddlefish, swamp hawks, stilt plover, avocet, rosy gull, tern, zampenere, pelicans and anglers.
For the lovers of the sea it is impossible not to fall in love with the beaches and coves found among the rocky coastline of Gargano. The most important bathing centre is Vieste, that can be found among the three thermal centers of the region, Mattinata, Peschici, and Rodi Garganico. In each of these small towns it is possible to find long beaches and bathing establishments that offer services of every kind for every type of clientele.

- The Province in Foggia
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