Best lakes around San Pietro In Casale, located in the plains between Bologna and Ferrara, offers access to significant water bodies. The region is characterized by its flat landscape and agricultural heritage, with notable areas of ecological restoration. The most prominent water feature is the Oasi La Rizza, a protected wetland area. This oasis provides ecological value and recreational opportunities, showcasing a restored wetland ecosystem.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The protected natural area of the Ex Risaia di Bentivoglio, also known by the name of Oasi La Rizza, is located in the northern part of the municipal territory and located in that part of the plain affected, in the recent past, by the cultivation of rice: the area of the former rice fields. Before the rice fields, in historical times, still in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the entire area was characterized by marshy land that flooded during the periodic flooding of the rivers, which were then poorly or not at all dammed. ... Once the rice farming activity ended, the agricultural landscape was replaced by dry crops such as wheat, beetroot, corn ... The nineties saw a small but substantial revolution in this monoculture landscape, thanks to the provision of community contributions in 1998 what was an anonymous triangle of fields was transformed into the natural area we know today, through environmental restoration interventions natural features typical of the plain. ... (Source: https://www.oasilarizza.it/it-it/oasi/rubriche/il-territorio-e-la-sua-storia-3181-1-7111ab2cdc775bb24e1c1cd44521fd51 )
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Forty hectares of wetlands and woods where you can observe lots of birdlife. A perfect place for bird watching or fish watching. There is also a shed with glass under the water to observe the habitat. This can be the perfect place to stop. A restaurant-hostel is open on Saturday and Sunday.
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Forty hectares of wetlands and woods where you can observe so much birdlife. A perfect place for bird watching or “fish watching.” There is also a shed with glass under the water to observe the habitat. This can be the perfect place to stop. A restaurant-hostel is open on Saturday and Sunday. https://www.oasilarizza.it/it-it/home#
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Magnificent area, well-marked routes and many paths to discover nature. Convenient and ample parking. https://tinyurl.com/dosolo
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Splendid oasis with many possibilities for walks. Ample parking and lots of nature. On foot with easy paths even for children or by bike
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Very large shells can be found in this pulp
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Stradello in the middle of the Bolognese countryside with a view on the so-called "maceri". Maceri are artificial basins of stagnant water, once used in Emilia-Romagna for the processing of hemp.
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The "Ex-Paddy of Bentivoglio" (also called Oasi la Rizza) represents one of the most important wetland complexes in the metropolitan area. Among the bird species there are herons, ducks, wild goose, marsh harrier and kingfisher present in the large wetland, while we find the great spotted woodpecker, the blue tit, the great tit, the black redstart, the little owl, the sparrow hawk in the woods and in the hedges. Up to the presence of medium-large-sized animals such as roe deer that inhabit, with different units, the most isolated and quiet areas of the protected area.
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The most significant water body is the La Rizza Nature Reserve, an extensive ecological rebalancing area covering over 34 hectares. It features wetlands and marshy areas, offering a glimpse into the historical swamp landscape of the Bologna plain. Other notable areas include the Alto Reno Flood Expansion Basin and the Dosolo Expansion Basin, both of which have become small oases for wildlife.
Yes, several areas are suitable for families. The La Rizza Nature Reserve is family-friendly, offering easy paths and birdwatching opportunities. The Alto Reno Flood Expansion Basin and Sette Maceri Trail are also categorized as family-friendly, providing accessible routes and natural exploration.
The wetlands and rebalancing areas are rich in biodiversity. At the La Rizza Nature Reserve, you can spot various bird species, including flamingos, grey herons, great egrets, storks, and mallards. The surrounding woods host great spotted woodpeckers, blue tits, and even roe deer. The Alto Reno Flood Expansion Basin also provides a habitat for numerous birds and animals typical of marshy areas.
Absolutely. The La Rizza Nature Reserve is a prime destination for birdwatching, known for its diverse birdlife and even an underwater viewing shed. Observation huts are strategically placed to allow visitors to view wildlife without disturbance.
Yes, the area offers various routes for outdoor activities. The La Rizza Nature Reserve has well-maintained footpaths and cycle paths. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy loops around the Oasi La Rizza, by visiting the Hiking around San Pietro In Casale guide. For cycling, paths run along the Reno river near the Alto Reno Flood Expansion Basin, and more options are available in the Cycling around San Pietro In Casale guide.
The Sette Maceri Trail is a path in the Bolognese countryside that offers views of "maceri." These are artificial basins of stagnant water that were historically used in Emilia-Romagna for processing hemp. It's an interesting spot to learn about the region's agricultural past.
Yes, the La Rizza Nature Reserve complex includes a visitor center, a restaurant offering local cuisine, and even an ostello (hostel). The restaurant-hostel is typically open on Saturdays and Sundays.
The facilities at Oasi La Rizza are designed to be accessible, accommodating individuals with reduced mobility, making it a welcoming destination for all visitors.
The Boscovivo Wetland, Argelato is a small reforestation area that serves as an ecological rebalancing zone for native flora and fauna. It features a variety of environments, including woods and wetlands, supporting many species of animals from birds to invertebrates.
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful immersion in nature, the rich birdwatching opportunities, and the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling. The ecological restoration efforts, especially at La Rizza Nature Reserve, are highly valued for transforming former agricultural land into vibrant wetland habitats.
Yes, the region features several man-made water bodies that have developed significant ecological value. The Alto Reno Flood Expansion Basin and the Dosolo Expansion Basin, originally created for flood control, have naturally evolved into important habitats for various bird and animal species, functioning as small oases.
The Dosolo Expansion Basin is noted for having convenient and ample parking. For other locations like La Rizza Nature Reserve, parking is generally available at the visitor center.


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