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Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona: A Maremman Wetland Paradise

Explore Diaccia Botrona: A stunning Tuscan wetland, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, rich in history and biodiversity.

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The Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona is a captivating nature preserve in Maremma, Tuscany, a remnant of the ancient Lake Prile. This protected wetland is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, especially bird species, offering hiking trails and boat tours. The Casa Rossa Ximenes, a multimedia museum within the reserve, provides insights into the area's history and ecosystem.

A brief summary to Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona - Maremma

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching; the reserve is home to over 200 bird species.
  • Visit during the early autumn (September) or in winter for the best birdwatching opportunities.
  • Wear appropriate footwear, such as Wellington boots, especially if venturing off the main paths.
  • Check the opening hours of the Casa Rossa Ximenes and book boat tours in advance.
  • Consider visiting the nearby beaches of Castiglione della Pescaia for a combined nature and seaside experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Castiglione della Pescaia, walk along the river Bruna, away from the sea. Cross the Ponte Giorgini bridge and continue on the road parallel to the river for approximately 2 km. The entrance and parking area for the Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona will be on your left. This walk takes around 30-40 minutes. No costs are associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    From Grosseto, take a regional train to Castiglione della Pescaia. Upon arrival at Castiglione della Pescaia station, take a local bus (1/G, 29F, 49D) to the bus stop 'Castiglione D.P. Monumento', which is a short walk from the reserve entrance. Check local bus schedules for accurate times. A single bus fare costs approximately €1-€2.

  • Taxi

    From the center of Castiglione della Pescaia, a taxi ride to the Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve takes approximately 10 minutes. Expect to pay around €15-€20 for the trip. Taxis are readily available in the town center.

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Discover more about Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona - Maremma

The Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona, located between Castiglione della Pescaia and Grosseto, is a significant natural area in the Maremma region of Tuscany. This 1,273-hectare reserve represents the last vestige of the once-extensive Lake Prile, which dominated the landscape for centuries. The lake's gradual drainage, particularly during the 18th-century land reclamation efforts led by the House of Lorraine, transformed the area into the marshland we see today. Diaccia Botrona is now a vital ecosystem and a classified wetland of international importance, teeming with plant and animal life. It serves as a crucial stopover and wintering ground for numerous waterfowl species, including elegant pink flamingos, herons, and marsh harriers. Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise, with over 200 bird species identified within the reserve. Besides birds, the reserve is also home to foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, porcupines, tortoises, tree frogs, and grass snakes. The Casa Rossa Ximenes, an iconic red building within the reserve, adds historical and cultural significance to the natural landscape. Built in 1765 by Leonardo Ximenes, a Jesuit engineer, the structure was intended to manage the flow of fresh and saltwater in an attempt to combat malaria. Today, the Casa Rossa houses a multimedia museum that provides visitors with an immersive experience, showcasing the reserve's ecosystem, history, and the impact of land reclamation efforts. Visitors can explore the reserve through guided boat tours, hiking, and mountain biking.

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