Natural Area of Lake Gherardesca

Imagine yourself in the heart of one of the most captivating and biodiverse areas of Tuscany, where nature tells ancient stories and wraps every corner in its silent enchantment. Welcome to the natural area located at the foot of Monte Pisano, a protected haven spanning about 30 hectares in the heart of the “Padule” — a land teeming with life that fascinates every nature lover.

Here, among tranquil waters and lush green landscapes unfolding before your eyes, this place serves as a crucial resting spot for thousands of birds traveling along ancient migratory routes. This little corner of paradise is a strictly protected area: hunting is forbidden, and although it lies near the SIC B03 “Former bed of Lake Bientina,” it remains untouched in its natural beauty.

To the north, the landscape is enriched by a drainage canal that, with its marsh vegetation, creates a perfect frame for aquatic life. Among the reeds and shimmering waters, you can spot numerous bird species, especially the cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis), which find shelter among the willow trees lining the western side.

Moving along the eastern edge, the scenery slowly changes: an elegant row of cypress trees separates the area from the surrounding farmland, while to the south, at the foot of Monte Pisano, the thermophilous woodland comes alive with Turkey oaks (Quercus cerris), where the air is fresh and silence is broken only by birdsong.

But it is during winter that this area reveals its true spirit: the waters of the Padule welcome many waterfowl seeking refuge, creating a spectacular display of life and movement. At the beginning of spring, the place fills with a constant flow of migratory birds, making this corner a unique point of interest for birdwatching enthusiasts.

If you seek a place where nature reigns supreme, where every step tells a story, and where silence is broken only by the flutter of wings, the Padule del Bientina area is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in an authentic experience, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Imagine strolling along the shores of a charming wetland, where nature puts on a show at every turn. Here, among reeds and calm waters, the stories of over 3,000 birds intertwine — including rare species of ducks, grebes, and coots. It’s a true paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

As twilight falls, the magic deepens. Hundreds of herons — including elegant great white herons, little egrets, and cattle egrets — gather in a special natural “roost.” Their evening assembly is a captivating silent dance that draws the curious eyes of those lucky enough to witness it. In this hidden corner of our land, you can experience the thrill of seeing 300 of these majestic birds, alongside cormorants, taking a break from the rush of everyday life.

These wonders are no accident: thanks to the monitoring and surveys conducted by the Tuscan Ornithological Center (Centro Ornitologico Toscano – COT) for the Tuscany Region, in collaboration with the International Waterbird Census (IWC), this extraordinary influx of birdlife was documented in January 2012. This ongoing effort allows all of us to appreciate and protect this incredible ecosystem, where every flight tells a story of beauty and biodiversity.