Best lakes around Granarolo Dell'Emilia are primarily artificial water bodies and wetlands, as the region's natural lakes are located further in the Apennine mountains. Granarolo Dell'Emilia is situated in the flatlands of Emilia-Romagna, characterized by its agricultural landscape. The broader Bolognese plain features important wet zones, including small swamps and reed-beds, which support local biodiversity. These areas offer opportunities for bird watching and provide serene natural settings for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 30, 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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The Margherita Gardens are the most loved and popular public park in Bologna. Inaugurated in 1879 and named as a tribute to the wife of the then King Umberto I, these gardens inspired by romantic English parks host tree-lined avenues in 26 hectares of land, a pond surrounded by chalk cliffs, oak groves and large lawns where you can play and relax. There are also various refreshment opportunities including bars, kiosks and ice cream parlors. During their construction, an Etruscan tomb came to light, as evidenced by the travertine tomb that can be admired at the edge of the central lawn. On the southern side of the lake, a very short uncovered stretch of the ancient Savena canal, dating back to 1176, is visible.
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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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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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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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Granarolo Dell'Emilia, situated in the flatlands, features primarily artificial water bodies, wetlands, and park ponds rather than large natural lakes. These areas are important for local biodiversity and offer serene settings for recreation and nature observation.
For nature observation and bird watching, La Rizza Nature Reserve is an excellent choice. It spans forty hectares of wetlands and woods, known for its diverse bird species. You can also find an underwater viewing shed for observing aquatic habitats. Another option is the Boscovivo Wetland, Argelato, a reforestation area with varied environments supporting many animal species, including birds.
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. La Rizza Nature Reserve, Lake of Ca' Bura Park, and Giardini Margherita are all suitable for families. Giardini Margherita, for instance, is a public park with a pond, tree-lined avenues, and large lawns for relaxation, also offering refreshment opportunities.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For cycling, there are routes like the 'Bentivoglio Castle – La Rizza Nature Reserve loop' which passes near La Rizza Nature Reserve. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Granarolo Dell'Emilia guide. For running, there are several moderate loops, such as the 'Running loop from Granarolo dell'Emilia' in the Running Trails around Granarolo Dell'Emilia guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Oasi La Rizza – Navile Canal loop' available in the MTB Trails around Granarolo Dell'Emilia guide.
Yes, Giardini Margherita in Bologna is a beautiful public park with a pond, inspired by romantic English gardens. It features tree-lined avenues and large lawns, perfect for a relaxing walk. Lake of Ca' Bura Park also offers a pleasant setting for a stop or a short walk.
Giardini Margherita offers various refreshment opportunities, including bars, kiosks, and ice cream parlors. Additionally, La Rizza Nature Reserve has a restaurant-hostel open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Yes, Lake of Ca' Bura Park is noted to have parking available, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Laghi Molinella, located in nearby Molinella, is a significant destination primarily for sport fishing. It's described as a 'very beautiful fisheries' with three natural islands, providing a serene environment. The lakes host numerous fishing competitions and are popular for amateur fishing, offering a relaxing day out. They also organize youth activities to foster interest in the sport.
The wetlands and nature reserves, such as La Rizza Nature Reserve and Boscovivo Wetland, Argelato, are rich in biodiversity. You can observe various bird species like herons, ducks, wild geese, marsh harriers, and kingfishers in the wetlands. The wooded areas might host great spotted woodpeckers, tits, black redstarts, little owls, and sparrow hawks. Roe deer can also be found in more isolated parts of the protected areas.
Yes, within Giardini Margherita, an Etruscan tomb was discovered during its construction. Evidence of this, a travertine tomb, can be admired at the edge of the central lawn. Additionally, a short, uncovered stretch of the ancient Savena canal, dating back to 1176, is visible on the southern side of the lake.
While there's no specific 'best time' mentioned, the nature reserves and parks are generally enjoyable during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, making outdoor activities like bird watching, walking, and cycling most comfortable. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.


Still not found your perfect lake around Granarolo Dell'Emilia? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.