Riserva naturale Le Bine, Regional nature reserve in Acquanegra sul Chiese and Calvatone, Italy.
Riserva naturale Le Bine is a private protected area in the municipalities of Acquanegra sul Chiese and Calvatone, within the Parco dell'Oglio Sud. It is built around a large meander of the Oglio River, still linked to the river and fed by springs, where the abandoned channel has gradually turned into marsh. Woods of white willow, black alder and black and white poplar surround the water, and former farmland has been converted into ponds and native broadleaf plantations.
The Oglio River was straightened in the 1700s, leaving behind an abandoned meander that gradually transformed into a marsh. The reserve was officially established in 1987 to protect this developing ecosystem.
The Guido Santini Environmental Education Center operates within the reserve and offers programs about nature conservation and wetland protection. Visitors can learn how local efforts focus on preserving these habitats for future generations.
The area is accessible from State Road 10 with clear signage directing visitors toward Calvatone and the Oglio River bridge. A designated parking area is located at the entrance before crossing into the reserve.
The marsh formed only after the Oglio was straightened in the 18th century for navigation, leaving an abandoned meander to silt up. The reserve is private, marsh included, and was declared a wildlife oasis on 10 May 1973 after local appeals. Since 2019 a wolf has been recorded occasionally, and the red-eared slider, an American turtle, lives here after being abandoned.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,396 contributors worldwide.