Parco Faunistico La Torbiera, Agrate Conturbia
Parco Faunistico La Torbiera in the north of the province of Novara is the center for the protection and reproduction of endangered species of animals. It is one of the most important institutions of its kind in Italy. Among the natural marshlands under protection there are many species of endangered fauna not only in Italy, but also from other corners of the planet.
History and terrain
The reserve is located between the valley of the Po River and the foothills of the Alps. The mild and humid climate in this area, as well as the presence of a large number of lakes, favored the appearance of marshes and associated vegetation. In the 19th century, peat was actively mined in the area and traces of a man from the Stone Age were accidentally discovered. Later, the state protected the extensive swampy areas with laws. And in 1977, near one of the lakes, a reserved area was created to preserve and study some species. By the end of the 20th century, the number of animal species had grown and educational work aimed at protecting the animal world was conducted in the La Torbiera Park.
Activities of the park
Parco Faunistico La Torbiera covers an area of 40 hectares. More than 400 individuals of 130 different species of wildlife live on its territory. Among them there are many exotic felines, capybara, tapir, monkeys, parrots. But more attention is paid to representatives of the Apennines fauna, among which there are different kinds of anatidae and wading birds, wolves, raccoons, badgers, deer, otters and many others. Zones and objects of animals’ habitat are designed in such a way as to provide the best comfort for permanent residents of the park. The whole park is surrounded by dense vegetation, where animals can easily hide, so they, rather than a visitor, decide the time of their appearance.
The reserve administration offers a walk of about 2 km, during which you can see rare and often little-known species of animals in their natural habitat. For educational purposes, the park created a whole range of services for visitors for a separate fee:
- Treasure hunting. Two-hour quest with many riddles, designed for 2 teams. The price is 150 euros.
- Secrets of animals. A full and extensive excursion with a guide that will fully illuminate the life and habits of the animals that live here. The price is 40 euros, duration is 2 hours.
- Day of the keeper. For 2 hours, the visitor will take care of the animals and feed them, getting to know subtle details of the work of the park employee. The cost is 40 euros.
- Show of animators. For the youngest, there are various games and themed classes conducted by experienced animators. The price is 40 euros, a group of up to 10 children.
- Birthday. A wonderful gift for the child will be the celebration of the birthday in the park. The price is from 55 euros.
On the territory of the park there is a restaurant open in the warm season. The administration also organizes various school programs.
How to get there
The park is located in the Agrate Conturbia commune, on Via Borgoticino Sud. In 7 km from the park there is a huge Pombia Safaripark. From the park to Turin it is 110 km and 70 km to Milan. The easiest way to get there is by train. Both cities can be reached from the central stations, with a transfer in Novara. You need to leave at the station Varallo Pombia or Borgo Ticino. From them to the park it is about 30 minutes on foot. If you are traveling by car, take the A4 motorway (both from Turin and from Milan), near Novara turn to the SS32 motorway and follow signs to Borgo Ticino, before which turn to the Agrate Conturbia commune.
Opening hours: from April to September from 10:00 to 18:00, on public holidays from 10:00 to 19:00. In March, October and November the park is open on Saturdays and public holidays, from 10:00 to 17:00. The ticket office closes an hour earlier. In case of bad weather, opening hours may vary. Phone number for detailed information (+39) 0322 832135.
Admission: the price of the adult ticket is 12 euros, for a child (4-11) – 8 euros. The price for groups (minimum 25 people) is 10 euros and 7 euros respectively. Data of May 2018.
