Exploring Burano Lake: A WWF Oasis in Southern Tuscany

Just under an hour from Porto Ercole, this former hunting reserve is now a WWF-protected oasis. It's a peaceful destination for walking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with the rhythms of the natural world. Less visited than the region’s hill towns and beaches, the lake offers something different: a quiet, authentic side of Tuscany.

All about Burano Lake

Burano Lake (Lago di Burano) is not a ‘lake’ in the typical sense. It’s a coastal lagoon, separated from the Tyrrhenian Sea by a narrow strip of sand dunes. Once used as a private hunting ground, it became the first WWF Oasis in Italy in 1980 and has since become a model for wetland conservation.

The area covers over 400 hectares and includes:

• The brackish lagoon itself
• Mediterranean scrub and pine forest
• Coastal dunes and marshes
  

This combination of environments supports an impressive level of biodiversity, especially when it comes to birdlife.

Why Visit Burano Lake

Burano Lake is a destination for people who enjoy being outdoors, observing wildlife, and walking through nature without a fixed agenda. It’s quiet, well protected, and relatively unknown outside of the region.

Highlights include:

• Birdwatching: more than 300 species have been recorded here, including flamingos, herons, marsh harriers, and kingfishers. Observation huts are positioned along key viewing points.
  
• Nature walks: the WWF maintains a few short, accessible trails that run along the edge of the lagoon and into the surrounding vegetation. Most visits are part of a guided experience, especially in autumn, winter, and early spring.
  
• Low-impact tourism: the reserve is carefully managed to reduce disturbance to wildlife. You won’t find crowds or development here, just simple infrastructure that helps you connect with the landscape.

What wildlife can I really expect to see?

Burano Lake is a true birdwatcher’s paradise. While each season offers unique sightings, autumn and spring stand out as the most remarkable times, thanks to the spectacular bird migrations.

You can commonly spot grey and white herons, black-winged stilts, avocets, kingfishers, pink flamingos, marsh harriers, and various species of terns.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, WWF organizes guided tours primarily in the mornings. It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak months of April, May, and October.

These tours last about 90 minutes and are led by experienced naturalist guides who share insights into the local flora, fauna, and the ecological history of the reserve.

Is it family‑friendly for kids?

Absolutely. The trails are flat and safe, making them ideal for children aged six and older. Family tours include interactive and educational activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage respect for the natural environment.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Burano Lake?

Burano Lake is best visited between October and May, when wildlife activity is highest and the weather is mild. Autumn and early spring are especially good for birdwatching, with many migratory species passing through.

In summer, access is limited and the heat can make walking less enjoyable. That said, early morning or late afternoon visits may still be possible if coordinated in advance.

How to Get there

The lake is located near Capalbio Scalo, about 45 minutes by car from Porto Ercole and the Argentario area. If you're staying at La Roqqa, the drive is straightforward and offers a chance to see more of the inland landscape.

Visits are usually arranged through the WWF Visitor Centre, which offers guided tours on weekends and public holidays.

Combine It With Nearby Destinations

A visit to Burano Lake works well as part of a day spent exploring the southern Maremma. Consider adding:

• A walk through Capalbio’s historic center
  
• A colorful stop at the Giardino dei Tarocchi
  
• A swim or bike ride at the Feniglia Dune Reserve

Each of these is close by, and each offers a different perspective on the Tuscan landscape.

Sustainable Maremma Experiences 

Whether you’re passionate about ecology, nature photography, or simply seeking a refreshing escape from conventional tourism, Burano Lake offers a vivid, authentic glimpse of what makes southern Tuscany truly special.

From LA ROQQA, this living landscape is just a short journey away - an invitation to slow down, observe carefully, and embrace the most genuine side of Tuscany.