Just steps away from the seaside, the Coastal Botanical Garden in Porto Caleri offers a serene exploration of nature.
Visitors of all ages can traverse wooden walkways to experience trails that meander through coastal dunes, a lush pine forest, and the lagoon’s tranquil interior.
This garden is a living classroom, showcasing the diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity of coastal environments. Established in 1990 by the Veneto Region, the garden spans 24 hectares within a Site of Community Importance (SIC) and forms part of the Veneto Regional Park of the Po Delta. It serves as a conservation area, preserving the unique flora of the upper Adriatic coastal and marine ecosystems through the ages.
With 220 plant species flourishing among the pine woodlands, coastal dune cordons, and inland saltwater wetlands, the Coastal Botanical Garden is a testament to ecological preservation and natural beauty.
Explore the Pristine Coastal Botanical Garden in Porto Caleri
Nestled in an untouched, pristine environment, the Coastal Botanical Garden in Porto Caleri is a sanctuary for numerous rare native species, including wild orchids that have nearly vanished elsewhere in the Delta. The garden features a fascinating array of dunes, from stable internal dunes shielded from wind to constantly shifting embryonic and moving dunes along this valuable stretch of coast.
Visitors can embark on one of three circular trails within the garden. The first, at 600 meters, winds through the dense forest area. The second trail, stretching 1650 meters, showcases the evolution of vegetation from the coastline to the inland dunes, featuring rare plants such as European searocket, shore bindweed, and orchids.
The longest path, at 2850 meters, traverses through diverse ecosystems including pine forests, sandy areas, Mediterranean scrub, and wetlands, offering glimpses of junipers, dog roses, and salicornia.
The garden is also a haven for birdwatchers, with a variety of birds like egrets, herons, terns, gulls, ducks, and marsh harriers finding refuge here. It is an educational and engaging experience for both adults and children, offering a chance to observe species rarely seen elsewhere.
Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning late spring blooms, the wild landscapes, and the timeless beauty of the scrub, as the vibrant colors and sweeping vistas will be perfect for your photo album or next travel blog post.
Consider packing a beach towel to unwind in the tranquility of the garden’s pristine beach, where you can lounge under the warm sun, listen to the gentle waves, and let the peaceful atmosphere wash over you, creating the perfect escape from the everyday hustle. Whether you’re exploring hidden paths or simply resting by the shore, the experience promises to refresh both your mind and spirit!
