Palude Brabbia

Palude Brabbia is a nature reserve situated between Lake Comabbio and Lake Varese in the province of Varese, covering an area of 460 hectares with reed beds, wet woodlands, and ponds dotted with water lilies. The landscape consists of different water habitats and vegetated zones that support a wide range of wildlife.

The reserve formed following the retreat of the Verbano glacier during the last ice age, when water levels in the region's glacial lakes declined significantly. This glacial history shaped the wetlands and water bodies that now characterize the area.

The Italian League for Bird Protection manages educational programs and guided visits through the reserve, teaching visitors about local wildlife and conservation efforts.

The reserve is open to visitors during daylight hours and offers walking trails with three observation hides for wildlife viewing. Parking is available nearby on Via Patrioti and Via Vanetti for easy access.

The reserve hosts the largest Grey Heron colony in Varese province, with more than 100 breeding pairs nesting annually among the reed beds. This concentrated population makes the site particularly noteworthy for observing these large wading birds.

Location: Province of Varese

Inception: 1984

Website: http://lipu.it/oasi/oasiDettaglio.asp?42

GPS coordinates: 45.79028,8.72278

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01