The Burano Lake
Burano Lake is a large brackish lagoon located on the Maremma coast near the border with Lazio, in the municipality of Capalbio. Despite being very extensive (covering about 140 hectares), it has an average depth of just one meter. It is a unique water mirror, of fundamental importance for many migratory birds.
The lake is located right on the coast and is separated from the sea by a narrow strip of sand. This characteristic gives the place a magical atmosphere.
The WWF Oasis of Burano Lake
Before being recognized as a protected area, the lake area was a hunting reserve. The WWF Oasis of Burano Lake was established in 1980: it is the first oasis created in Italy by the association.
The band of wild dunes that separates the lake from the sea is about 3 km long. Close to the sand grow evergreen Mediterranean plants that shelter from the salty winds the mirror of water and the forest that extends behind it.
The lake is a real paradise for birdwatchers. Here you can spot flamingos, herons and many birds of prey including the osprey and the marsh harrier.
Sightings of small mammals such as porcupines, badgers and foxes are also common.
Guarding the Lake of Burano is the ancient Tower of Buranaccio, a fortification dating back to the 16th century. The tower had functions of surveillance and protection of this stretch of coast and of the nearby village of Capalbio.
Visit the WWF Oasis of Burano Lake
It is possible to visit the WWF Oasis of Burano Lake accompanied by a guide. The visit turns on the strip of sand that divides the body of water from the sea, then totally flat.
Within 2 hours, the guide will illustrate the environmental characteristics of the area, the plants and the animals that inhabit it.