Today we’re proposing a suggestive natural environment, teeming with life: the Nazzano Tevere-Farfa natural area. Established in 1979, it is the oldest among those in the Lazio Region. Its borders are found in its name, and in fact the Tiber River, its tributary, the Farfa stream and Lake Nazzano are indicated within a territory divided between the Metropolitan City of Rome and the province of Rieti. Just 30 kilometres from the Residenze del Borgo di Cicignano, along the Strada Regionale 657, the kingdom of water and biodiversity!
The Kingdom of Water and Biodiversity
Water, consisting of two rivers and a lake, is the reserve’s preponderant element. Lake Nazzano is nothing more than an artificial basin, created following the construction of a dam, which took place in the 1950s, by the electricity company Enel, on the Tiber, in the immediate vicinity of the confluence with the Farfa river. An aquatic environment means a hunting reserve for many species of birds and birds of prey, which regularly nest here, while the lush reeds along the shores offer shelter and protection to many mammals.
What to do in the Tiber Farfa Nature Reserve
We mentioned that there are many ways to visit the reserve, to move from one point to another and to admire all the uncontaminated beauties.
Perhaps the best way to explore the reserve is by boat, which takes visitors to otherwise unattainable areas.
Two slow and characteristic boats, ecological and with a low environmental impact, gently oscillating on the calm body of water, will cradle you for about an hour, allowing you to discover incredibly characteristic and evocative views. “Airone” and “Martin Pescatore”, on which to board at the ports of Nazzano, Torrita Tiberina or Sant’Oreste can be booked at the following numbers 347-6104110, 347-9364173, e-mail: ilsentierodelfiume@yahoo.it
And, why not, once on the mainland you can opt for a ride on a horse. Some stables in the surrounding areas organize excursions even in the moonlight, which is reflected in the water; the atmosphere is truly magical and contact with Nature becomes even more intense.
Let’s not forget the two pedestrian paths: “La fornace” and “Ripariale di Meana”. Not all the routes can be covered by bicycle, but you can ride along the Tiber river starting from the Nazzano Romano Power Station to reach the village of Poggio Mirteto.
The elevated observation stations are the true paradise of birdwatchers. And, of course, there are picnic areas for both young and old. If you are a lover of comfort, you can refresh yourself in farmhouses and trattorias in the surrounding villages, where you can appreciate the traditional and genuine Sabine cuisine.
