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Lake of Bilancino is an artificial basin. It was built against the danger of flood and to secure a water reservoir in Florence. It collects the waters of various tributaries (Sieve, Lora, Stura, Calecchia, Tavaiano) which are then released to the Arno River through the Sieve River. The realization of the lake was promoted by the Tuscany Region and realized with European, state, regional and local funds. Over the years it has become a tourist destination and has assumed the characteristics of a natural lake, surrounded by greenery. In summer the lake is seaside zone and the shores are equipped with some facilities. At the lake you can practice many sports activities such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, swimming, sport fishing. There are also many bicycle paths and tracks where you can go trekking, jogging or mountain biking.
The dam and basin were officially inaugurated in October 1999.
Gabbianello Natural Oasis
Gabbianello’s Oasis, located on the shores of Lake Bilancino and managed by the WWF, was built with the aim of creating damp habitats, as they are at greater risk of extinction in Italy and Europe.
The oasis is spread over 25 hectares and is surrounded by the Tuscan-Romagnol Apennine Mountains and Calvana. It is located in a land of deciduous and evergreen forests, pastures and organic cultivations.
In the migratory period you can observe: White Stork, Wild Goose, Crane, Tarabuso, Pink Flamingos, Cavaliere d’Italia, Falcon fisherman.
There are five observers in the area where animals can be observed. The Oasis already provides the tools needed for observation. There is also a picnic area, mountain biking rentals and theme areas including:
- Wet Area: It is formed by a pond of 8 hectares and represents the heart of the Oasis. Here you can spot many bird species. A path leads to sighting cabins;
- Didactic pond: artificial pond crossed by a wooden jetty that allows to observe the animals of this ecosystem. In addition you can observe the typical vegetation of Tuscan wetlands;
- Shed of bees: in the wet area have been inserted the hives;
- Ancient Fruits of the Medici Collection: an orchard was created with the aim of preserving varieties of Mugello fruit plants, already cultivated in the Medici times;
- Sustainable Oasis: In the Visitor Center Oasis uses systems for water and energy saving;
- Butterflies Garden: space characterized by plants that favor the reproduction and reproduction of butterflies.
Schedule
September October
Sunday: 11.30-19.00
Visits on request: morning at 12.00
Afternoon at 17.00
October-November
Sunday: 10.30-16.00
Visits on request: morning 11.00
Afternoon at 14.30
December to February
1st and 3rd Sunday: 10.30-16.00
Visits on request: morning 11.00
Afternoon at 14.30
2nd Sunday: only by reservation 7.00-12.30
4th Sunday: only by reservation 10.30-16.00
March (until 19 March 2017)
Sunday: 10.30-16.00
Visits on request: morning at 12.00
Afternoon at 17.00
From March 26 to April
Sunday: 11.30-19.00
Visits on request: morning at 12.00
Afternoon at 17.00
May-June
Saturday: 8.00-15.30
Visits on request: morning 10.00
Sunday: 11.30-19.00
Visits on request: morning at 12.00
Afternoon at 17.00
Open for 2 Jun
Closed in July and August
Cost of ticket
- Whole: 4 €
- Reduced 5-14 years: 3 €
- Over 65 years: 3 €
- Families: 10 €
- Free: Residents of Barberino di Mugello, members Friends of the Oasis, WWF members, less than 5 years
- Entrance and guided tour upon request (groups of minimum 5 people): 6 €
- School groups and groups up to 30 people (outside opening hours): 90 €
- Schools of the Municipality of Barberino di Mugello (opening hours): 1 € per child
