Best lakes around Orbetello are characterized by a unique natural landscape dominated by significant bodies of water. The primary feature is the Orbetello Lagoon, a vast brackish lagoon covering approximately 27 square kilometers. This area is a crucial wetland, separated from the Tyrrhenian Sea by two narrow strips of land, the Giannella and Feniglia tombolos. The town of Orbetello is situated on a central strip, dividing the lagoon into two parts.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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The Orbetello Lagoon is a coastal nature reserve of 27 km² located in the Maremma grossetana, in Tuscany. This unique brackish ecosystem is enclosed between the Monte Argentario promontory and the mainland by two 6 km long sand spits, known as Tombolo della Giannella and Tombolo della Feniglia. In the center of the lagoon lies the town of Orbetello, connected to Argentario by the historic Leopoldina Dam (built in 1842), which divides the body of water into the Western Lagoon and the Eastern Lagoon.
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Beautiful panoramic view overlooking the Feniglia Tombolo, the Lagoon and Orbetello
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idyllic up here, beautiful view of the lagoon
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Who doesn't have a photo with this mill?😁
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This surprising sight, which immediately makes you think of a city sunken in the sea (who has never heard of 'Atlantis'), is what visitors see at the end of the headland that separates the northern 'Laguna di Ponente' from the southern 'Laguna di Levante'. Even early in human history, people were clever enough to harness the power of the elements - which could be a threat on the one hand, but also helpful on the other. A total of nine tidal mills once diligently did their work here.
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Place of peace and worship Breathtaking panoramic view Immersed in nature, the monastery of the Passionist friars offers a magical place where time stops to think about the past, present and future.
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Indisputable obligatory stop on the way up
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Nine mills were built in the 15th century, all in a single line in the lagoon. They were built by the Sienese to grind grain (which was brought to the mill on the local boats) to produce flour. At the time, they were powered by the force of the water (which flowed in and out of the lagoon every six hours from the Giannella tombolo, causing a vast hydraulic phenomenon), which turned the millstones. A century and a half later, in 1557 to be precise, Orbetello became the capital of the Stato dei Presìdi, created by order of King Philip I of Spain. It was under Spanish rule that sails were added to the mill, so as to harness the power of the many winds (four mistral and five sirocco) that blew across the lagoon. The nine mills, arranged in a row by the inhabitants of Orbetello, managed to produce enormous amounts of water by exploiting both the currents and the winds, thus creating a phenomenon of hydraulic and wind engineering of great historical significance. Today, only one of the nine mills mentioned above remains, recently restored.
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The primary natural attractions are the Orbetello Lagoon and Lake Burano. The Orbetello Lagoon is a vast brackish lagoon, a significant wetland separated from the Tyrrhenian Sea by the Giannella and Feniglia tombolos. Lake Burano, a coastal brackish lagoon near Capalbio, is a protected WWF Oasis known for its pristine coastal environment.
Yes, both the Orbetello Lagoon and Lake Burano are exceptional for birdwatching. The Orbetello Lagoon is a vital wetland for numerous migratory birds, including pink flamingos, especially between autumn and spring. Lake Burano, a WWF Oasis, is a crucial habitat for wild ducks, gulls, and flamingos, with guided tours and observation huts available.
You can find various trails, including gravel paths and dirt roads suitable for cycling or walking. The La Feniglia Pine Forest Trail offers 10 km of gravel path within an unspoiled reserve, providing access to the sea and birdwatching huts. The Duna Feniglia Pine Forest Trail is another excellent option for exploring the nature reserve on foot or by bicycle.
Absolutely. The nature reserves like Feniglia offer easy, flat routes perfect for families to walk or cycle. These areas are rich in flora and fauna, including deer, making them engaging for children. Many highlights, such as the La Feniglia Pine Forest Trail, are categorized as family-friendly.
The most prominent historical site is the Spanish Windmill of Orbetello. This is the last remaining of nine 15th-century mills that once dotted the lagoon, originally using wave motion and later wind to grind flour. It stands in the lagoon, connected to Orbetello by the Leopoldina dam.
The best time to visit for nature observation, especially birdwatching, is between autumn and spring. During these months, the Orbetello Lagoon hosts significant populations of migratory and wintering bird species, including pink flamingos.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Feniglia tombolo features a nature reserve with trails ideal for cycling, such as the Duna Feniglia Pine Forest Trail. There are also specific road cycling routes and gravel biking routes available around Orbetello, offering diverse terrain and scenic views.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Feniglia nature reserve offers trails for walking, and you can find various hiking trails around Orbetello, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes, often providing views of the lagoons and the Tyrrhenian Coast.
The region boasts rich biodiversity. In the Feniglia reserve, you can find maritime pines, cork oaks, and Mediterranean scrub, along with deer and wild boars. Lake Burano's dunes host sea daffodils and juniper bushes, and its reserve is home to wild rabbits, porcupines, foxes, and various tortoise species, in addition to the abundant birdlife.
Yes, the Convent of the Passionist Fathers, Monte Argentario, located on the top of Monte Argentario, offers magnificent panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, including the islands of Giannutri and Giglio. It's also a great spot to admire a sunset.
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique natural landscape, the tranquility of the reserves, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. Many appreciate the shaded paths for cycling and walking, the pristine beaches accessible from the reserves, and the excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially for flamingos. The picturesque setting of Orbetello itself, seemingly floating between the waters, is also a highlight.


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