Gravina di Laterza

Puglia > Italy

The majestic canyon of Laterza is a natural protected area that is home to many birds. Great for birding, but you can also make a nice hike through the canyon.

Added* by John Morecroft
Most recent update 12 February 2020

Description

The LIPU (Italian League for Bird Protection) oasis of Laterza, extends over 800 hectares in the heart of the ravine park. Great place for birding, walking and cycling. Along the 12 km rocky walls, in the numerous caves and in the thick vegetation, large and small birds nest such as the Common Buzzard, Eagle Owl, Barn Owl and numerous other species of birds. Special birds you can see here are Egyptian Vulture, Black Kite, Lanner Falcon, Black Stork, Lesser Kestrel, Eagle Owl, Short-toed Snake Eagle and Black-eared Wheatear.

Details

Access

To reach the entrance take the state road n. 7 which from Taranto crosses the centers of Massafra, Palagiano and Castellaneta. After passing through the town of Castellaneta, after about 8 kilometers, turn left following the signs Laterza and after having completely crossed the town you will arrive at the Oasis, on the extreme southern periphery. The reserve has a car park, a network of nature trails and a Visitor Center. You can walk into the canyon and back, but it is also possible to do a circular trail of about 11 km. This is the trail you see on the map.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Canyon/cliff , Agriculture , Scattered trees and bushes

Conditions

Hilly , Rocky

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Wide path , Unpaved road , Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Extra info

www.lipu.it/oasi-gravina-di-laterza-taranto

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