Nature

PAN Parks Wilderness in Majella is a unique example of mountainous wilderness in the heart of the Apennine mountains. This is the first certified PAN Parks Wilderness not only in Italy but in the Mediterranean. Spectacular canyons, dense beech forest and bare mountain tops provide extraordinary wilderness experiences.

Flora

The vegetation present in the park is remarkable. Its position as the most southern Alpine region in Europe means it is at crossroads of genetic flux with over 2000 different specimens. The park is host to 36% of Italian flora, and 22% of European flora. Beech wood is predominant in the forests and often offers spectacular sceneries, like in the Wood of St. Antonio, a frequented place for visitors with majestic century-old trees. The great expanses of Alpine pines at high altitudes is also remarkable.

Fauna

Majella hosts over 78% of the species of mammals present in the Abruzzi, and over 45% of those present in Italy. Today we can find Apennine wolf, red deer, roe deer, wild cats and brown bear in the woods and the clearings of the park. The Apennine Chamois is once again the uncontested ruler of the summits. The harsh and big calcareous valleys, typical of Majella, are the ideal shelter of the royal eagle. The park is a particularly significant area for the preservation of certain species; 3 are in danger of extinction in Europe and 10 are in danger of extinction in Italy.

Flagship species: brown bear, wolf, apennine chamois