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Laguna Viva

The great “Oar” forest

A hike into the heart of a magnificent beech forest, where every tree holds the echo of a distant past.
We will ascend along paths surrounded by centuries-old trees and karst limestone outcrops, passing sinkholes and swallow holes that reveal the geological soul of this unique land. We will reach the “Piaie Longhe e Millifret” nature reserve, part of the Cansiglio Forest, once famed as the “oar forest” of the Republic of Venice.

Details

Scheduled Excursion

Highlights 

Exploration of an ancient beech forest among sinkholes and karst formations

Discovery of the historical connection between Cansiglio and the Serenissima

Immersion in a landscape where forests, rocks, and human memories coexist in harmony

What we will do

  • At the beginning of the route, we will have a brief introduction to the area, the history of timber from Cansiglio, and its role for the Republic of Venice

  • We will walk through beech forests, sinkholes, and swallow holes, exploring the geological structure that characterizes this natural reserve

  • We will talk about the tradition of the woodcutters, many of Cimbrian origin, who lived in these forests and who, with effort and skill, obtained timber for oars, beams, and naval structures

  • We will reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking valleys and forests and, in the right seasons, observe bird migration. The reserve is still an important wildlife corridor today

  • We will discuss the concept of the “Forest of Oars of Saint Mark”—how Cansiglio was a strategic timber reserve used to build the galleys of the Serenissima and to support the city on thousands of wooden piles

  • We will complete the loop carrying with us an experience that weaves together nature, geology, and history

Book your private experience

Contact us for more information and to share your wishes with us. We will be thrilled to organize an unforgettable adventure tailored to your needs!






    What we will do

    • At the beginning of the route, we will have a brief introduction to the area, the history of timber from Cansiglio, and its role for the Republic of Venice

    • We will walk through beech forests, sinkholes, and swallow holes, exploring the geological structure that characterizes this natural reserve

    • We will talk about the tradition of the woodcutters, many of Cimbrian origin, who lived in these forests and who, with effort and skill, obtained timber for oars, beams, and naval structures

    • We will reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking valleys and forests and, in the right seasons, observe bird migration. The reserve is still an important wildlife corridor today

    • We will discuss the concept of the “Forest of Oars of Saint Mark”—how Cansiglio was a strategic timber reserve used to build the galleys of the Serenissima and to support the city on thousands of wooden piles

    • We will complete the loop carrying with us an experience that weaves together nature, geology, and history

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