Gargano National Park is one of the most fascinating and wild corners of Italy. Officially established with the framework law on the protection of protected areas in 1991, it extends over 118.000 hectares in the province of Foggia, embracing an incredible variety of landscapes: from dense forests to karst plateaus, from rugged coastlines to the suggestive Tremiti Islands. This area, also known as the “Spur of Italy”, offers a unique mix of biodiversity, culture and traditions, making it an unmissable destination for nature and history lovers.
The Gargano Park Authority and Its Constitution
After the establishment of the protected area, the Gargano National Park Authority was established in 1995, with headquarters in Monte Sant'Angelo. This body has the task of protecting and enhancing the natural heritage and cultural of the Gargano, promoting sustainable and responsible development. The park is one of the largest in Italy and includes an incredible variety of environments, each with unique characteristics.
The Territory and Municipalities of the Gargano Park

Map of the municipalities of the Gargano National Park, from https://www.mase.gov.it/
The Gargano National Park involves 18 municipalities in the province of Foggia, including Vieste, Monte Sant'Angelo, Peschici and Vico del Gargano. This vast territory includes very different environments: from the lagoons of Lesina and Varano to the peaks of the Umbra Forest, up to the spectacular coasts and Tremiti Islands. The geographical diversity of the Park is one of the elements that make it such a fascinating place, able to offer different experiences depending on the area visited.
Biodiversity: Flora and Fauna of Gargano National Park
Flora

Ophrys sphegodes subsp. passionis, formerly also known as Ophrys garganica
The biodiversity of the Gargano National Park is extraordinary and stands out for the variety of ecosystems and endemic species. The vegetation is particularly rich and varied, thanks to the combination of mountain, coastal and humid environments.
In the internal areas the dominant Umbra Forest, one of the largest and best preserved beech forests in Europe, where you can admire majestic beech, yew, Turkey oak and holm oak trees. In some areas there are also mixed forests with ash, maples, holly and chestnut trees.
Along the coast the prevailing Aleppo pine forests, which alternate with Mediterranean scrub, composed of mastic, myrtle, strawberry tree, phillyrea and heather. In the driest and sunniest areas, typical plants of the Mediterranean steppe grow, such as prickly pears, asphodels and ferula.
Particularly important is the presence of over 80 species of wild orchids, some of which are endemic to the Gargano, such as the Ophrys promontory , Ophrys sipontensis. This makes the Park a true paradise for botany enthusiasts.
Fauna
The variety of environments present in the Gargano Park has favored the presence of an extremely rich fauna. Over 170 bird species, making this area one of the most important for birdwatching in Italy. Among the birds of prey you can observe the Peregrine Falcon, white-winged, meadow and, more rarely, the lannerWetlands are home to species such as thegray heron, night heron and, during migrations, also the pink flamingos.
Among the mammals, the most notable are the Italian roe deer, Besides boars, fallow deer, volpi e wild cats. In recent years the presence of the Apennine wolf, a sign of an environment in excellent health.
What to See in Gargano National Park
Umbra Forest
An authentic green lung of the Park, the Umbra Forest It is home to one of the largest beech forests in Europe, protected by UNESCO.
This green lung extends for about 10.000 hectares and offers an enchanting landscape, where centuries-old trees rise majestically and the undergrowth is populated by rare species of flora and fauna.
The paths that cross the forest are perfect for hiking or mountain biking, and offer the possibility of meeting roe deer, foxes and numerous species of birds. An immersive experience in the most authentic nature.
Lakes of Lesina and Varano
I Lesina lakes e Monitor are two brackish lagoons that characterize the northern landscape of Gargano. These two bodies of water, located along the northern coast of the promontory, represent the largest coastal lagoons in southern Italy and constitute an ecosystem of great environmental and landscape value.
The Coast and the Tremiti Islands
The Gargano coast is famous for its white cliffs overlooking the sea, its hidden coves and its sea caves of Vieste, sculpted by the wind and the waves.
A visit to the Tremiti Islands, a heavenly archipelago famous for its crystalline seabeds. A true paradise for lovers of the sea and diving.
The Villages: Vieste, Monte Sant'Angelo, Peschici and Vico del Gargano
The villages that dot the Gargano are authentic jewels to be discovered. Vieste, with its Old Town and the symbolic Pizzomunno, Monte Sant'Angelo with the sanctuary of San Michele, Peschici perched on the sea and Vico del Gargano, the “country of love”. Each village tells stories of ancient traditions, art and culture.
Why visit Gargano National Park
Gargano National Park is an unmissable destination for those who want to live an immersive experience between nature, history and tradition. Its scenic wonders, the richness of flora and fauna and the beauty of its villages make it an ideal destination for every type of traveler. Whether it is an excursion through the woods of the Umbra Forest, a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Tremiti Islands or a walk in the historic villages, Gargano will conquer the hearts of those who visit it.