PIAN DI SPAGNA

Introduction:

Pian di Spagna Natural Reserve is a protected area located in the town of Sorico and Gera

Lario, in the Como province, Lombardy.Founded in 1985, it is one of the most important humid areas in the region, known as a Comunitary Importance Site and Special Protection Zone.Pian di Spagna is an alluvial plain formed with the sedimentary materials from the Adda River.

The name “Pian di Spagna” dates back to the Spanish domination period, between the sixteenth and the eighteenth Century, when the area was a strategic border between the Dukedom of Milan and the Grigioni region.During this period, some fortifications such as the Forte Fuentes,were built to check the access to Valtellina.Today, the ruins of the fort are visible from the Montecchio Fort.

 

Flora and Fauna:

The reserve is rich in animal and plant species, thanks to the presence of water zones,

forests and open spaces that coexist in balance.To the north there are large stretches of reeds, essential for the aquatic birds that take refuge here and build nests.

In the quieter places of lakes and streams plants such as white water lilies grow and they are useful to keep the environment healthy and colorful.There are willows, poplars and oaks, which provide shade and shelter to many animals such as insects, small mammals and birds.In spring and summer, the meadows are filled with wild flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.With regard to fauna, the reserve is very important especially for birds: more than 200 species live there, including those birds that migrate and are protected, such as swans, grebes, herons and the tarabunga, famous for its deep call and ability to hide among the reeds.

There are also frogs, toads and newts in the wetlands. Along the paths you can see lizards, squirrels and sometimes non-dangerous snakes, suchas the Collared Snake.

All this shows how natural and well-preserved the environment of the reserve is.

 

Activities and visits:

The reserve offers numerous opportunities for nature lovers, suitable for all ages and levels of experience.

 Visitors can explore a network of hiking and cycling trails, through forests, wetlands and scenic spots, offering ideal opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

 The Visitors’ Centre is the ideal starting point for discovering the reserve: here you can receive up-to-date information, pick up detailed maps and take part in organised activities.

Thematic guided tours are offered regularly, led by expert naturalists.

 

Accessibility:

Colico is located in Lombardy, on the north-eastern tip of Lake Como, and can be easily reached in several ways:

By car:

From Milan: take the SS36 (Superstrada dello Spluga) towards Lecco/Sondrio.

After you reach Lecco, continue on the SS36 until you reach the exit Piona/Colico. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes

By train:

From Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi, take a direct train to Colico (Milan-Tirano line). The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

By boat (seasonal):

In spring/summer you can also arrive by ferry, with the boats of the Navigazione Lago di Como from places such as Bellagio, Varenna or Menaggio.