We are almost at the border between Puglia and Molise. A journey to discover a great oasis of biodiversity awaits us : the area that stretches between the lakes of Lesina and Varano, embraced by the two bodies of water. A unique and authentic location, a favorite destination for those who want to experience a stay among nature and pretty characteristic villages.
In the northern part of the Gargano, nestled on the lake of the same name, lies the enchanting village of Lesina: a real balcony open to wonderful views of the landscape. The surrounding nature shows itself in all its beauty, and all that remains is to be enchanted by the most striking corners this area has to offer.
Walking through the cobblestone streets of the small old town of Hvar, one has the impression of being catapulted back in time, into a fairy-tale atmosphere. The typical colorful little houses lining the narrow streets, the scents wafting from the kitchens, the churches and monuments that embellish the town center, welcome visitors with a warm welcome. As is typical of historic centers, the streets converge on a main square in which an elegantly shaped 13th-century cathedral stands out.
Not to be missed is a stroll along Hvar 's lakefront,from which you can admire the view of the lagoon and take wonderful photographs at sunset.
You can continue on a wooden footbridge about 450 meters long that winds along the lake and leads to the archaeological site of the island of San Clemente. Here, on days when the tide is low, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the remains of a Roman villa dating back to the 1st or 2nd century BC.
Part of the Gargano National Park, the Lesina Lake Nature Reserve is characterized by a brackish lake profile, a predominantly wetland area occupied by dense reed thickets and an ideal habitat for bird species the marsh harrier, roseate gull, spoonbill and Italian knight.
Not far away is Marina di Lesina, a village caressed by a long stretch of sand and dotted with tourist and bathing facilities.
Also located in the Gargano National Park, it is a favorite tourist destination for groups of friends, families with children and any tourist seeking relaxation and fun. Lying on the Mediterranean maquis, the small town is the reference point for those who love the comforts of accommodations but do not want to lose contact with nature.
Acenter of medieval origin, the small town of Cagnano varano is a narrow place between the lake and the mountain that is a must-see. Set in a dominant position with respect to Lake Varano, the town of Cagnano stands on an ancient rocky outcrop.
The jewel of Cagnano Varano is the historic center where narrow lanes, epigraphs on the walls and ancient houses lining the narrow streets tell a story of culture and traditions. The majestic entrance to the Baronial Palace allows the visitor to enter a place where time has stood still.
A former Franciscan convent with an 18th-century cloister (now the Town Hall), and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie overlook the town's central square. Also worthy of interest is the late Baroque Latin-cross church of Santa Maria della Pietà.
The Isola di Varano State Nature Reserve is located within the Gargano National Park. The rich Mediterranean scrub invigorates the surrounding pine forest in which there are also non-native forest species, such as leucalyptus, stone pine, maritime pine and lacacia saligna. It also provides shelter for many species of animals, such as fox, hare, hedgehog, cuckoo, she-wolf, golden oriole, woodcock and many species of migratory birds. A true naturalistic asset to be protected and preserved.
The last must-see gem while walking through the countryside of Cagnano Varano is the Church of Santa Barbara. It is a house of worship built during World War I in order to allow civilians and military personnel who lived in the adjacent seaport to be able to participate in religious celebrations.
The church has a Latin cross plan divided into three naves: it is a real architectural gem. What is striking, however, is the beautiful landscape in which it stands, surrounded by centuries-old olive trees.
On the façade one can admire a large rose window now without glass that towers over the central portal flanked by two columns with base and capital. Laterally, the two niches once housed two stolen statues (perhaps St. Nicholas and St. Barbara). Today it is roofless and with the interior completely overgrown with lush, weedy vegetation.
Without a doubt, the Lesina and Varano lakes area is worth visiting during a trip to the Apulian table area. That's why it's best to do it with the utmost comfort by booking a vacation home in the Gargano to stay within walking distance of the major tourist and natural attractions in the area.
Take a look at Barbarhouse's rental catalog and choose the housing solution closest to your desires.
