Riserva Naturale di Macchiatonda
Twenty kilometres south of Civitavecchia, the Macchiatonda Nature Reserve is a protected coastal wetland where freshwater lagoons, Mediterranean scrub and sandy dunes meet the sea. It's one of the most important stopover points for migratory birds on the entire Tyrrhenian coast, and it remains almost entirely off the tourist radar.
A Wetland on the Flyway
The reserve sits at the mouth of the Marangone stream and covers around 110 hectares of habitat that shifts from open water to dense macchia scrub within a few hundred metres. Flamingos, grey herons, marsh harriers and dozens of wading species use the lagoon as a staging post during spring and autumn migrations.
Even outside peak migration windows, the reserve rewards a quiet morning walk. Resident species include the European kingfisher, purple heron and common tern. The dune system behind the beach is one of the most intact on this stretch of coast, colonised by sea holly, restharrow and the aromatic mastic shrub.
Walking the Reserve
A marked trail of approximately 4 km loops around the main lagoon and through the dune scrub to a short stretch of uncrowded beach. The path is flat and manageable for all fitness levels, though it can be muddy near the water's edge after rain. Binoculars are worth every gram of luggage space here.
The reserve is managed by the Lazio Region and entry is free. A small information board at the car park on Via Aurelia km 84 explains the habitats and key species to look for. There are no cafés or facilities inside — pack a picnic and treat it as a half-day escape from the port.
More of Civitavecchia
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Civitavecchia →
