Gherardesca Natural Area
At the foot of Monte Pisano, one of Tuscany's most important wetlands, approximately 30 hectares have been reinstated as a special protection area for the protection of aquatic birds.
CONTACTS
ADDRESSMunicipality of Capannori, Piazza Aldo Moro 1, 55012 Capannori (LU)
TEL : 0583 428 760
APP & WEB SOLUTION: comune.capannori.lu.it
Lake Gherardesca is a small body of natural spring water, what remains of Lake Bientina (or Sesto), the largest lake in Tuscany until the mid-800th century, before this portion of land was reclaimed by order of Grand Duke Leopold II of Lorraine.
In this area abandoned by agriculture, the water has been able to recreate the perfect environment for the many aquatic birds that spend the winter here and the migrants who arrive punctually every year with the arrival of spring and fascinating in every season, the misty autumn with a thousand shades of grey, the bright green summer, the winter of clear days in which the snow-capped peaks of the Apuan Alps and the Apennines can be seen in the distance.
An oasis of peace and biodiversity for a relaxing experience in pristine and hospitable nature, to be savored slowly, discovering little corners of beauty and making special encounters.
Vegetation and trees provide the lake's natural frame, while also recalling its agricultural past. Cypress trees separate it from the cultivated areas to the north and the dense Turkey oak forest to the south, on the slopes of Monte Pisano. Among the willow trees, their roots submerged in the water, are several species of herons, particularly herons, egrets, and cormorants. They coexist harmoniously with other aquatic birds, such as ducks, grebes, coots, and snipe.
The paths along the lake shore can be explored on foot or by bicycle, while admiring the panorama that opens up to suggestive glimpses of the mountains and small villages perched on the hills of the Compitese, an area well-known and appreciated for its landscape that alternates plains and hills, with charming, ancient villages rich in history: Castelvecchio di Compito, Colle di Compito and San Ginese di Compito.
For birdwatchers, the wait becomes a magical moment. Everyone stands still, or takes small steps around the body of water, admiring the spectacle of the birds free in nature. Silence and subtle sounds. The flapping of wings, the elegant flight of herons, the chatter of egrets, the lively cries of snipe. A feast for the eyes and ears.