BOSCO DIFESA SAN MATTEO: this is a woods area of great naturalistic interest, because it is marked by a varied arboreal vegetation, mainly made by Beeches, Turkey oaks, Maples, black and white Hornbeams.

It is possible to observe here calcareous formations, typical of the Gargano promontory as deep valleys, karstic sinkholes, rifted fields, “ice-stock areas” (natural depressions where it was stocked the snow that turned to be useful during the summertime) and pools (natural depressions which serve to store rainwater, used to water the Podolica cows, whose milk is used to produce the “Caciocavallo Podolico”). In some spots the trees seem to create a sort of “tunnel”, like a kind of protection for the wayfarers.

During the spring, the wood is colored of thousand chromatic shades, together with those of the wild Orchids, which creates a magical atmosphere thanks to their colors and scent.

MEETING PLACE: SQUARE OF “CONVENTO SAN MATTEO” (San Marco in Lamis)

ITINEARARY START: SQUARE OF “CONVENTO SAN MATTEO” / ITINEARARY END: SAME PLACE

PATH LENGHT: 6 km

JOURNEY TIME: 3 hours (Planned stop have been foreseen in order to favor the full body efficiency)

DIFFICULTY: T = Touristic (it consists of itineraries on small routes, mule tracks and easy, visible paths,  that  do not present uncertainties, difficulties or orientation problems. Those kind of itineraries are also suitable for hikers on their first experience).