Other attractions in the Santadi area include the Pantaleo Forest, which boasts the largest holm oak forest in the world.
The holm oak (Quercus Ilex L.) is an evergreen that reaches 10-15 m in height, is undemanding in terms of water, has a sturdy trunk and thick, rounded crown.
Holm oak wood is not suitable for processing so in the past it was used for charcoal production.
In addition to holm oak, the forest is home to yew, holly, mastic tree, myrtle and strawberry tree.
Like the flora, the fauna is also rich: along with the deer, wild boar, important species of birds including the golden eagle and peregrine falcon find their home.
Not to be forgotten is the presence, now for over twenty years, of a breeding farm of Sardinian hares (Lepus capensis mediterraneus), to safeguard the species.
Also important are the archaeological testimonies within the forest: among them, the thermal complex of Is Figueras from the Roman era and the small circular clearings made at different points of the forest by the charcoal burners, for the preparation of the charcoal pits.
In fact between 1872 and 1951 the forest was exploited for the production of coal and gunpowder by the French “Compagnie des Forges et Acieries de la Marine d’Homecourt.”
Through a small railway line, the products of the Pantaleo forest reached Porto Botte and from there were destined for the French ports of Marseille and Toulon.
Today the Forestry Authority, which is based in the renovated buildings of Des Forges, has initiated several projects to enhance the forest, with the establishment of a Visitor Center, a trail of about 3 km that winds through the forest, and several rest areas.
