Po and Orba River Park – Piedmont: calm waters, surprising biodiversity and rural testimonies. The Po and Orba River Park develops along the Piedmontese stretch of the largest Italian river, embracing a landscape of plains, floodplain forests, canals and agricultural areas. It is an ecological corridor of great naturalistic value, which crosses the provinces of Turin, Vercelli, Alessandria and Cuneo, offering precious habitats for many animal and plant species. 🌊 The river as the protagonist: The Po flows slowly, drawing bends, islets and secondary branches that host a variety of environments: alluvial forests, wetlands, permanent meadows and oxbows. The Orba, a tributary of the Po, contributes to making the landscape more varied and dynamic, enriching the ecological mosaic of the park. 👉 Tip: Head to the Valencia area to observe the changes of the river at different times of the day, perhaps during a walk on the embankment. 🦅 Birdlife and nature to discover: The park is an important resting and nesting area for water and migratory birds: herons, cormorants, night herons, black-winged stilts and birds of prey such as the marsh harrier. The humid forests and open areas are also home to mammals such as roe deer, foxes and badgers. 👉 Tip: Bring binoculars with you and visit the wetlands between Casale Monferrato and Trino: here you will find birdwatching huts surrounded by greenery. 🚲 Cycling routes and slow tourism: The park is crossed by long cycle paths, including part of the Vento route (Venice-Turin), which allows you to cycle along the river through small villages, farmhouses and rows of poplars. It's a relaxed way to explore nature and river culture. 👉 Tip: Drive along the stretch between Chivasso and Coniolo, along the river and stopping for lunch in a trattoria with Monferrato cuisine. 🏞️ Protected areas and nature reserves: Within the park there are areas with special protection, such as the Garzaia di Valenza Nature Reserve and the Fontana Gigante Nature Reserve, where spontaneous vegetation grows luxuriantly and the landscape retains a wild and primitive character. 👉 Tip: Visit the Garzaia di Bosco della Partecipanza, one of the most important colonies of grey herons in Piedmont, active especially in spring. 🍇 Rural culture and local products: The landscapes of the park are marked by traditional crops, historic farmhouses and rows of vines and poplars. The agricultural culture is also reflected in the typical products of the area: rice, cured meats, honey, Monferrato wines and lowland vegetables. 👉 Tip: In Casale Monferrato, attend a farmers' market or a food and wine event to taste the specialties of the area. The Po and Orba River Park is a land of water and silence, where nature expresses itself between shady shores, light flights and ancient human paths.