Isola della Cona together with the Caneo area, is part of the "Foce dell’Isonzo" Natural Reserve; covering a surface of 2,400 hectares, the area is located along the last 15 km of the river Isonzo and has been recognised as best area in Italy for birdwatching. Its symbol is the curlew. A unique ecosystem worldwide, where it is possible to admire the lush flora (with 650 species found), and local fauna (with 323 poultry species listed in the Reserve). It provides the ideal habitat for dozens of wading birds, including herons, coots, mallards, teals, garganeys, drakes and seagulls.The area is equipped for walking or bicycle tours and there is a possibility to take part in didactic workshops and guided tours; at Isola della Cona it is also possible to go riding on white Camargue horses.
For nature photography and birdwatching enthusiasts, it is well worth stopping at the Visitors’ Centre, at the heart of the Reserve, located near the mouth of the river Isonzo. Isola della Cona can be visited all year round. The "Museo della Papera" and the Ecopark are open also in winter, and the Visitors’ Centre organises many activities:
- guided tours
- a cycle ride through the Reserves or didactic week-ends for adults and children
- meetings with ornithologists for an in-depth discussion about the most interesting naturalistic topics.
DID YOU KNOW THAT… The mouth of the river Isonzo is at Punta Sdobba, but direct access to the river is impossible because a large expanse of shallows has formed on its outlets: the Isola dei Gabbiani; here, together with many other birds, live a numerous colony of mute swans.
