The Umbra Forest is the green heart of the Gargano National Park. Spanning over 10,000 hectares, it is characterized by an impressive flora such that in many places, even during the day, the sun does not shine through (hence the name Umbra). The Umbra Forest is composed, at lower altitudes, of pine woods which become forests dominated by Turkey oak, Downy oak, and Holm oak. At higher altitudes, pure or mixed beech forests extend. On the side towards Monte Sant’Angelo, yew forests can be found. The logistical base of the Umbra Forest is located at the Visitor Center; here you will find the Natural History Museum, the reconstruction of the ancient woodcutter’s house, and the animal enclosures for fallow deer and mouflon. The Umbra Forest is crossed by 14 trails created by the State Forestry Corps. Walking some of these trails, it is “relatively” easy to observe the wild animals inhabiting the forest (from roe deer to wild boars, including badgers, fallow deer, and martens), especially near the Sfilzi springs and the Cutini (small ponds) of water. Additionally, beautiful flints are found throughout the Umbra Forest.
Information about the Natural History Museum of the Umbra Forest
Loc. Umbra Forest,
71018 Monte Sant’Angelo (Foggia)
0884.562062
info@ecogargano.it
https://www.ecogargano.it
Source: MIBACT
