The marshes surrounding the coastal town of Castiglione della Pescaia are an important shelter for migrating birds, and this 1272-hectare nature reserve off the SS322 is a wonderful chance to explore this flat yet fascinating landscape. Boat tours enable you to spot waterfowl, herons, flamingos and other species; book in advance.
Boat tours leave from the visitor centre in the Casa Rossa Ximenes , a handsome sluice-house commissioned in the mid-1700s by Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo I of Lorriane to help reclaim the marshes for agriculture and reduce the area's horrifyingly high levels of malaria. The visitor centre features a multimedia display (in Italian only) about the reserve's wildlife, the building and the reclamation.
Guided mountain-bike tours (adult/reduced €8/5) of the reserve depart from the nearby town of Castiglione della Pescaia between late May and early October; booking is essential.
