The Carso freely expresses itself here, in dolines and furrowed fields, home to wild cats and European hedgehogs
Mount Lanaro and Orsario Reserves
The reserves stretch across gentle hilly terrains, covering an area of 285 hectares (Lanaro) and 156 hectares (Orsario); both are located within the municipalities of Sgonico (Zgonik) and Monrupino (Repentabor). Their territory showcases the typical landscapes of the Karst plateau.
The Monte Lanaro area is characterized by hilly reliefs and well-preserved wooded areas that remain untouched by human activity.
In the Monte Orsario area, numerous dolines can be observed—circular depressions caused by water erosion—as well as many "karst fields," limestone rocks with grooves, holes, and corrosion basins shaped by atmospheric agents. These are the well-known features typical of surface karst phenomena.
The vegetation alternates between extensive areas of Karst scrubland and beautiful examples of oak and Turkey oak woods, while in the southern part, lush black pines grow. The area is home to populations of wildcats and European hedgehogs, while the brown bear and golden jackal, appearing only occasionally, add a unique charm to this rich ecosystem.