Established in 1999, the Bracciano-Martignano Regional Natural Park is one of Lazio’s naturalistic gems. Between volcanic lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills, the park boasts a great variety of environments rich in animal and plant species. However, the protected area is not only a treasure trove of biodiversity but also an ideal place for outdoor activities. It also preserves important historical testimonies that tell the story of the millennial interaction between humans and the environment. Thanks to its combination of natural beauty and cultural value, it represents an essential stop for those wishing to discover the landscape and historical richness of Lazio.
The Territory
Part of the extensive volcanic system of the Sabatini Mountains, the park extends over 16,000 hectares across the municipalities of Anguillara Sabazia, Bassano Romano, Bracciano, Campagnano di Roma, Manziana, Monterosi, Oriolo Romano, Rome (XX Municipality), Sutri, and Trevignano Romano, straddling the provinces of Rome and Viterbo.
The heart of the protected area consists of the two namesake lakes, which together cover approximately one-third of the reserve’s total surface. Lake Bracciano, located just a few minutes’ walk from our hotel, is the larger of the two and is a volcanic lake formed in a vast depression created thousands of years ago. With its 57 square kilometers, it is the second-largest lake in Lazio and the eighth in Italy. The small Lake Martignano, located just over 15 kilometers from our hotel, was formed inside an ancient volcanic crater and is a true paradise for those seeking tranquility and authentic contact with nature.
Within the park’s boundaries are two important Natural Monuments: the Caldara di Manziana, characterized by sulfurous waters and evocative birch groves; and the wetland area of Pantane and Lagusiello di Trevignano, a precious refuge for numerous aquatic bird species. The protected area also hosts a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Beech Forest of Monte Raschio, a rare ancient thermophilic beech forest at low altitude in a Mediterranean environment.
Flora & Fauna
The particular morphology, fertile volcanic soils, and relatively rainy and humid climate have significantly influenced the vegetation, creating a great variety of woodland environments. The hilly belt surrounding the lakes, with elevation differences ranging from 160 to 610 meters above sea level, shows an almost complete vegetation succession, from Mediterranean scrubland at the lowest elevations to beech forests, passing through thermophilic downy oak woods, Turkey oak forests, and chestnut groves.
Regarding fauna, the variety of habitats makes the park a privileged location for numerous animal species. Over 200 bird species have been recorded, of which at least 80 are nesting, including coot, great crested grebe and little grebe, grey heron, little egret, common pochard, and rarities such as ferruginous duck and marbled teal. Among mammals are the wildcat, Italian hare (critically endangered), fox, weasel, porcupine, badger, fallow deer, and wild boar. Numerous amphibian and reptile species are also present, including spectacled salamander, newt, toad, frog, tree frog, tortoise, green lizard, four-lined snake, and grass snake, while among fish, non-native species introduced for sport fishing predominate, alongside native ones such as pike and sand smelt.
Experiencing the Park
The park offers countless opportunities to experience nature actively and consciously. A dense network of well-marked hiking trails, with different difficulty levels, allows exploration of the territory on foot, by mountain bike, or on horseback, crossing woods, hills, and picturesque medieval villages. Among the most evocative routes is the Lakes Cycle Path, which leads to panoramic viewpoints over the lakes, the Sabatini Mountains, the Tolfa Mountains, and the Roman countryside.
For water sports enthusiasts, the lakes offer opportunities to practice a wide range of activities (swimming, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, SUP, kayaking, diving, etc.). Along the shores are free and equipped beaches, ideal for relaxing in the sun and enjoying the landscape.
The park’s numerous natural environments also provide a privileged setting for birdwatching, nature photography, and educational activities, making the reserve suitable for all ages and every type of visitor.
Finally, we note that the territory hosts numerous museums (Civic Museum of Bracciano, Historical Museum of Rural Civilization and Popular Culture “Augusto Montori” in Anguillara Sabazia, Etruscan-Roman Civic Museum of Trevignano Romano, etc.) and sites of historical and cultural interest (such as the Orsini-Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano), which further enrich the park visit experience.
Experience Nature Without Sacrificing Comfort
Stay at our hotel and discover the Bracciano-Martignano Natural Park with excursions, lakes, and panoramas just steps from your room.
Photo © Bracciano-Martignano Regional Natural Park
