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The Cork Oak Wood of San Vito: a walk through the forest that sheds its bark at Monte San Biagio
Hidden away in the area of Monte San Biagio lies a natural treasure: the Sughereta di San Vito, the largest and most intact cork oak woodland on the Italian peninsula. An area of around 300 hectares, where nature and history are interwoven. This is a forest that transforms itself, thanks to the ancient practice of cork harvesting.
A forest that renews itself
What makes this place truly unique is the harvesting of the prized bark. This operation, carried out with great skill so as not to damage the trees, means that the woodland shows two faces: that of the impressive holm oaks and cork oaks with their thick bark, and that of the trunks freshly "stripped", waiting to regenerate their precious outer layer.
A “place of the heart” to be explored
Recognised for its outstanding value, the cork oak woodland has been listed among the FAI's "Luoghi del Cuore" — the Places of the Heart initiative run by Italy's National Trust. It is the ideal spot for a walk or a hike, following the paths that wind their way between centuries-old trees and rich Mediterranean undergrowth, completely immersed in nature.
Access to the woodland is free. The starting point for exploration is Via San Vito, in the municipality of Monte San Biagio (LT). From here, several marked trails lead into the wooded area, inviting a host of discoveries.
