cover photo by Gambacciani_FotoInViaggio
 The information about this location have been automatically translated with Microsoft Translator. Rank : 8.0 (average on 1 votes)Coordinates : 43.73057001215837, 10.979473317387153 ( Open in Google Maps) Subjects : The natural area of Arnovecchio is characterized by a deep lake, which was originally a part of the course of the Arno river that was modified at the time of the Medici, while more recently it has been used as a source of gravel. Currently it is a mosaic of different environments that, although of artificial origin, with the progressive abandonment of production activities have undergone spontaneous processes of naturalization. The quarries in particular have been colonized by numerous faunal and floristic species. Inside the area there is a path equipped with structures that facilitate the observation of wild plants and animals and designed for complete accessibility even by people with mobility difficulties or blind.-------------PHOTOGRAPHICALLY it is possible to shoot the birdlife of the lake, taking advantage of the protection of three wooden huts. The raised position on the lake does not help the photographic composition. Animals are rarely very close. In front of the shed on the right there is a perch for passerines. Interesting is the presence of flowers and plants, including many wild orchids. In fennel plants, in season there are caterpillars and butterflies, typically macaons. A truly unique moment is represented by the releases of wild birds after the period of care and rehabilitation, in particular nocturnal and diurnal birds of prey are released. Activities in collaboration with the recovery association CETRAS Empoli. -------------SPECIES TO OBSERVE / PHOTOGRAPH: Among the birds Kingfisher, Grebe, Coot, Moorhen, Grey Heron, Egret, Magpie, Crow, Wood pigeon, Stiff neck, Chaffinch, Sparrow, Blackbird, Great, Robin, Luì, Moriglione, Moretta tabaccata, Mallard, Mallard, Gull, Common Gull, Yellow Ballerina. Among the mammals present also Fox, Porcupine, Roe deer.Recommended equipment : Good binoculars help the observation of animals. In the central shed there is always a good monocle on a tripod. For photos or videos to animals it is definitely necessary to equip yourself with a very long canvas to be used freehand or tripod. For flowers and insects you need easel, and macro lens, wanting flash and panels. During the liberations the birds are shown very closely before flying them and a classic 70-200 is more than enough, but you can also use a macro as well as a portrait lens.Best months : It is always a pleasure to take a leap into nature and silence, but spring is certainly the richest and therefore most interesting period. The liberations instead are usually in the summer (this year at the end of July). How to get there : For those coming from Pisa or Florence, take the FI-PI-LI highway, take the Empoli Est exit junction and turn right at the first intersection. Once you reach a roundabout, take the SS.67 towards Empoli centro and follow it for about 500 meters (up to the Bianconi Restaurant), turn right into via Cantone and immediately after turn right again into via del Piano all'Isola. Follow the road (narrow, but paved) until its junction with Via Arnovecchio, turn right and walk another 300 meters (ANPIL entrance on the left).Visits : The normal opening hours are Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning (the exact times change according to the season). The area is also open on other occasions when there are special events, such as guided or themed tours, wild animal liberations. Access is always free. For special events it is necessary to book online.Notes : | | Nearby:   Parco di Serravalle 1 km
 Empoli 3 km
 Osservatorio Astronomico Beppe Forti K83 6 km
 Artimino 7 km
 Montalbano (catena montuosa) 10 km
 Mulinaccio di Scandicci 11 km
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