Mincio Park – Lombardy: slow waters, reeds and reserves in the heart of the Mantuan plain. The Mincio Park develops along the river of the same name, between the morainic hills of Garda and the city of Mantua, until it flows into the Po. An environment dominated by water, with marshes, oxbow trees, agricultural areas and a rich heritage of biodiversity. It is a protected area that combines nature, agricultural landscape and river culture. 🪶 Wetlands and valuable habitats: The park is home to aquatic environments of great naturalistic value such as the Mincio Valleys, the Vallazza Nature Reserve and Lake Superior. Here there are extensive reeds, flooded groves and nesting areas for herons, night herons, marsh harriers and various species of ducks and waders. 👉 Tip: Rent a small electric boat or take a guided boat trip between Mantua and Rivalta sul Mincio to observe the fauna up close, in total silence. 🚴 Cycle paths and paths between nature and countryside: The Mincio Park is crossed by flat cycle routes, ideal for all ages. The Mantua-Peschiera Cycle Route, which follows the ancient route of the canal, is one of the most popular routes in Northern Italy. Between villages, locks and bodies of water you can pedal for tens of kilometers without ever losing contact with nature. 👉 Tip: Start from Goito and walk the stretch towards Grazie di Curtatone, perhaps at sunset: the atmosphere is suggestive and perfect for a few shots. 🏞️ River landscapes and water villages: The towns crossed by the park, such as Rivalta sul Mincio, Borghetto and Grazie, preserve the identity of the villages linked to the river: piers, mills, traditional fishing and small river ports. In Mantua, the shores of the lakes offer walks through history and nature, with open views of the Renaissance city. 👉 Tip: Visit the village of Grazie during the Fiera delle Grazie in August, and climb the small promontory to admire the lake landscape and the Sanctuary. 🌾 Agriculture, hydraulics and memory of the territory: Along the Mincio, the agricultural landscape has been shaped for centuries with canals, locks and water meadows. The park preserves many of these testimonies, which tell the relationship between man and water. The production of rice, wheat and fodder is still active and coexists with environmental protection. 👉 Tip: Stop at a farmhouse between Soave and Grazie to taste traditional Mantuan dishes: risotto alla pilota, pike in sauce and pumpkin tortelli with mustard. The Mincio Park is a landscape of water and light, where the river flows slowly between protected nature, river culture and country life.