Highlight • Natural Monument
Holm oak
Hiking
4.9
(33)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Riserva Naturale Regionale Orientata "Bosco delle Pianelle"
Tips
May 26, 2023
Hiking
•
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Holm oak
4.5
(29)
57
hikers
11.2km
02:58
110m
110m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Hornbeam Trail, a 7.0-mile (11.2 km) loop that takes about 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete, with an elevation gain of 347 feet (106 metres). You will wander through dense holm oak forests and Mediterranean scrub, often under the thick canopy of hornbeam trees that create a natural 'hut' of leaves. The varied terrain includes natural paths, some unpaved sections, and distinctive karst formations. As you hike, you'll discover a notable point offering panoramic views of the Taranto Plain, stretching towards the Gulf of Metaponto and even a glimpse of the distant Pollino mountain range. In spring, the reserve bursts with color as numerous wild orchids bloom, adding to the vibrant green environment.
To begin your adventure, the trail conveniently starts from the Bosco delle Pianelle Visitor Center. The route is well-marked, ensuring an easy navigation experience through the reserve. While the paths are generally well-maintained, be aware that some sections can be unpaved, and during winter, the ground may be wet, so trekking shoes are advisable. This loop offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, providing ample shade from the evergreen oak trees.
The Bosco delle Pianelle is a significant natural reserve, making this trail notable for its rich biodiversity, including unique hornbeam trees and rare orchids. You will also encounter intriguing remnants of past human activity, such as ancient cisterns called 'fogge', charcoal ovens known as 'carbonaie', and lime kilns or 'calcinaie'. The trail also showcases unique geological features, including the Grave della N'Zirra, a 30-meter-deep fossil sinkhole where you can observe impressive stalactites from a safe distance.
4.4
(17)
43
hikers
14.8km
04:00
200m
190m
Hike the moderate 9.2-mile (14.8 km) Captain's Tree and Hornbeam trail loop in Pianelle Forest, gaining 640 feet (195 metres) in 4 hours.
4.7
(12)
32
hikers
9.76km
02:36
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 450 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 13 June
29°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December