The Gargano is an imposing promontory located in the province of Foggia. It essentially corresponds to a mountain massif known as the "spur of Italy," stretching 70 km into the Adriatic Sea and giving rise to the Gulf of Manfredonia. To the east, it extends to the so-called "Head of the Gargano," while to the west, it connects with the Tavoliere delle Puglie, covering a total area of about 2,000 square kilometers.

The Gargano is home to the Gargano National Park. This is the only mountain range entirely in Puglia, which was originally an island, later connected to the mainland by a progressive accumulation of alluvial deposits. The northern coastal strip, low and sandy, hosts the coastal lakes of Varano and the adjacent Lesina Lake.

The geographical axis runs from west to east, with peaks that exceed a thousand meters, such as Monte Calvo (1,056 m), Monte Nero (1,011 m), and Monte Signo (1,010 m). The two lakes of Lesina and Varano are separated by the spur of Monte d'Elio (252 m). Observing the nature of the land in the Gargano, it’s clear that the region is predominantly made of limestone. The prevalence of limestone gives the entire region a distinctly karstic appearance, with numerous sinkholes, caves, caverns, large enclosed basins, underground waterways, steep slopes, and sheer cliffs. In various areas of the promontory, there are many caves and horizontal cavities, particularly along the coast, which were partly formed by marine abrasion. These formations create a spectacular display of beauty, with various structures and a wide array of colors and reflections created by special molds.

The flora of the Gargano has evolved separately from the rest of the peninsula. The sea, with its high salinity, on one side, and the plains, which hinder the exchange of species, on the other, have contributed to a partial isolation of the promontory, thus fostering the growth and reproduction of endemic plant and animal species. Among these, we find over 60 species of orchids, beech trees, trembling poplars, holm oaks, carob trees, oaks, prickly pear cacti with yellow flowers and reddish fruits, sweet figs, and the dwarf fig that grows and clings to the rocks, becoming one with them, resembling a magnificent bonsai. There are also lilies, rosemary, thyme, juniper, oregano, and the intensely fragrant helichrysum, while broom plants fill entire valleys with color and scent. The forest is abundant with prized mushrooms to pick and enjoy.

In the flatlands, there are lush vineyards and extraordinary olive groves with deep historical roots, which, along with tourism, are now a reliable and concrete source of income. You will stop in awe before centuries-old olive trees grown from a single stump or olive trees along the coast, shaped by the continuous wind into "L" shapes that seem to flee from the sea. Between Lesina and Poggio Imperiale, large fields of tomatoes and beets strongly mark the vast land with their striking burnt-red color. In the distance, the gray and pink quarries of Apricena scratch the sky. Fortunately, today, tree cutting is done with care, and reforestation is constant. The establishment of the Gargano National Park is a clear sign of environmental awareness and, for the future, it will be a sound investment, not only in terms of health but also economically.

The inland area of the region, covered by dense forests, including the Umbra Forest, is sparsely populated. The inhabitants tend to gather in coastal towns or at the foot of the mountains, partly due to the development of seaside tourism, which has been added to the traditional fishing and farming activities. A panoramic road runs along almost the entire perimeter of the Gargano, touching many of the main towns, such as San Nicandro Garganico, Carpino, Rodi Garganico, Peschici, Vieste, Mattinata, and Manfredonia. Among the inland locations are Monte Sant'Angelo, San Giovanni Rotondo, and San Marco in Lamis—towns with famous sanctuaries that have made the Gargano a place of great religious fervor since medieval times.

While wandering through the region, be cautious when driving along narrow rural roads that may lack proper maintenance; keep in mind that these roads were originally designed for agriculture and forestry. In any case, you will be richly rewarded by visiting an environment that will transport you to distant times.

Stop at the rudimentary workshops along the roads, where many woodcarvers work. Their craft is a patient art that has been passed down through the ages. The people of Gargano are not as reserved or suspicious as they may seem. They are quiet, yet attentive and willing to listen and talk. You may even hear old legends or incredible stories. If, out of necessity or curiosity, you need to cross private land, approach the owner without fear; they will readily grant you permission and often offer you water, wine, or fruits from their cherished land. Many mobile fences are used to corral animals: open them, but remember to close them afterward. Visiting the Gargano means rediscovering true silence, hearing forgotten sounds, and letting the long wind carry intense scents that will make your experience magical.