LAKE TRASIMENO AND WATERBIRDS.
This excursion features a delightful panoramic loop walk suitable for all ages, even children, covering all the most interesting sites on Polvese Island, the largest island on Lake Trasimeno. We will drive to San Feliciano and take a boat to Polvese Island, a site of naturalistic interest with its tall holm oak forest, ancient olive grove, and extensive reed beds.

Lake Trasimeno is the largest freshwater lake in peninsular Italy and a true “treasure chest” of biodiversity. The residual riparian woodlands, meadows, border ponds, dense reed beds, and open waters provide ideal habitats for numerous animal species typical of wetlands. Ornithologically, the lake is an exceptional site and has been designated as a Special Protection Area. Large bird species we may observe include the Coot, various ducks (especially the Wigeon), Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Pochard, Cormorant, and Great Crested Grebe. The elegant flight and dives of the Marsh Harrier are spectacular.

We will be accompanied by an expert ornithologist who will provide materials for observation. Additionally, we will visit the Lake Trasimeno Fishing Museum in San Feliciano, which illustrates the history and life of the lake, addressing geological and environmental aspects and recounting the story of its inhabitants through fishing tools and techniques.

Optional: Upon reservation, enjoy a sunset boat ride with an aperitif (organized by the Lake Trasimeno Fishermen’s Association).

COLFIORITO MARSH LOOP:
Difficulty: E; Elevation gain: 340 m; Distance: 13 km.

This loop hike within the Colfiorito Regional Park, the smallest of Umbria’s protected areas, offers significant environmental as well as historical and cultural richness. The marsh spans over 100 hectares and is a nationally unique habitat characterized by various ecosystems linked to the wetland. The permanent or seasonal presence of water defines the environments here in distinct ways.

The park is a paradise for both resident and migratory birds, with over 150 species. Among them: the Little Bittern, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Night Heron, and Squacco Heron. Songbirds include the River Warbler, Common Reed Warbler, Great Reed Warbler, Bearded Reedling, and Penduline Tit, along with Mallards, Coots, Moorhens, and Shovelers.

We will drive to Colfiorito, starting the hike from the parking area near the park headquarters in Casermette. The route, marked by CAI signage, partly overlaps with the Franciscan Path of the Marca and the Lauretana Way, identified as CFM and VL. Highlights include Monte Carpello’s Castellieri, a votive shrine, Forcatura’s pine grove, the main swallow hole of the marsh, and the “Mollaro” house. We’ll also reach Monte Orve (926 m), home to the most important Castellieri of the Piani Plestini, a pre-Roman settlement designed with terraced slopes for controlling access routes between neighboring territories.

Recommended: End the day by visiting the naturalistic museum inside the park headquarters.

ORVIETO AND THE ALVIANO OASIS:

The WWF Alviano Oasis includes all the typical environments of freshwater wetlands: marshes, ponds, swamps, and riparian forests. Spanning 900 hectares, it is one of central Italy’s most important Special Protection Areas. Thanks to the variety of habitats, many bird species can be observed throughout the year, including herons, Marsh Harriers, Kingfishers, Spoonbills, Great Crested Grebes, Little Grebes, and numerous duck species. Armed with binoculars, we’ll explore the reserve quietly, using observation huts to marvel at the rich natural surroundings.

Afterward, we’ll visit Orvieto, a stunning Etruscan city perched on a tuff cliff. Highlights include a guided tour of the underground city, the extraordinary St. Patrick’s Well, and the magnificent, timeless Cathedral.