Lake San Giuliano (WWF Oasis) - Image 1
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Oasi WWF Lago di San Giuliano

4
·82 reviews·, Italy

A serene WWF oasis in Basilicata, featuring an artificial lake that's a haven for birds and a place for quiet contemplation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Ideal for birdwatching

CrowdLow
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Lake San Giuliano (WWF Oasis) - Image 1

Oasi WWF Lago di San Giuliano

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Ideal for birdwatching

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene WWF oasis in Basilicata, featuring an artificial lake that's a haven for birds and a place for quiet contemplation.

4
(82 reviews)

"An oasis of total peace and relaxation where you can spend a day with the whole family."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Smart for Minimal Services

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection as there are no facilities. :waterwave: :apple: :sunwith_face:

Easy Road Access

Roads are paved and suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bikes. 🚗 🏍️ 🚲

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4 · 82 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake San Giuliano

Lake San Giuliano

The heart of the oasis

An artificial lake that has become a vital habitat for diverse bird species and wildlife.

Birdwatching Haven

Birdwatching Haven

Various vantage points around the lake

Observe a rich variety of sedentary and migratory birds, including birds of prey and waterfowl.

Whale Fossil 'Giuliana'

Whale Fossil 'Giuliana'

Ridola Museum, Matera

Discover the fascinating fossil of a whale named Giuliana, showcased in a multimedia exhibition.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Oasi WWF Lago di San Giuliano offers a serene escape. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection, as services are minimal. It's ideal for quiet contemplation and nature observation.

Accessibility & Amenities

Paved roads lead to the oasis, making it accessible by car, motorcycle, or bicycle. Note that there are no facilities like bars or restrooms, so plan accordingly for your visit.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Ideal for birdwatching
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pack Smart for Minimal Services

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection as there are no facilities. :waterwave: :apple: :sunwith_face:

Easy Road Access

Roads are paved and suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bikes. 🚗 🏍️ 🚲

Respect Nature

This is a protected area; enjoy the peace and leave no trace. 🍃 🙏

Visit the Whale Fossil

Don't miss the 'Giuliana' whale fossil at the Ridola Museum in Matera. 🐳 :museum:

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Smart for Minimal Services

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection as there are no facilities. :waterwave: :apple: :sunwith_face:

Easy Road Access

Roads are paved and suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bikes. 🚗 🏍️ 🚲

Respect Nature

This is a protected area; enjoy the peace and leave no trace. 🍃 🙏

Visit the Whale Fossil

Don't miss the 'Giuliana' whale fossil at the Ridola Museum in Matera. 🐳 :museum:

What Travellers Say

4
(82 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Oasi WWF Lago di San Giuliano is praised for its profound peace, natural beauty, and soul-soothing tranquility, making it ideal for relaxation and nature observation. However, visitors should be aware of the significant lack of services, including no restrooms or dining options, and the water quality is not pristine.

"Nice place."

ebike “eBike Rental and Tour” rental and tour

"The San Giuliano Oasis is a protected natural area of ​​great environmental value, located in Basilicata, near Matera. Here is some key information:
* Origins and history:
* The oasis is closely linked to the creation of Lake San Giuliano, an artificial lake created in the 1950s by damming the Bradano River.
* Over the years, the area has become an important habitat for numerous species of aquatic birds and other wildlife.
* Since 1976, this body of water has been declared a regional natural oasis, and since 1989, it has been recognized as a WWF Italy oasis.
* The oasis has been recognized as a Site of Community Interest (SCI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA).
* Environmental characteristics:
* The oasis is characterized by a wetland environment, with the lake, riparian zones, and typical vegetation of these environments.
* The fauna is very rich, with a wide variety of birds, both sedentary and migratory, including birds of prey, herons, ducks, and many other species.
* The vegetation is characterized by hygrophilous plants, such as poplars, willows, and tamarisks, and by reeds.
* A whale fossil, named Giuliana, was found within the oasis. It can be viewed through a multimedia exhibition at the Ridola Museum.
* Activities and Use:
* The oasis offers various opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography.
* Picnic areas and outdoor activities are available.
* Canoeing excursions are available on the lake.
* There are several family-run agritourism farms.
* Importance:
* The San Giuliano Oasis represents an important example of environmental redevelopment, where an artificial lake has become a habitat of great ecological value.
* The area plays a fundamental role in the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of migratory species.
* It is a place of interest for both nature lovers and visitors interested in the history and culture of the area.
The San Giuliano Oasis is therefore an ideal place for those who wish to spend time in contact with nature, admire evocative landscapes, and observe wildlife."

Cesare Caporali

"An oasis of total peace and relaxation where you can spend a day with the whole family. There are wooden benches and tables available (but not too many), and those who wish can bring their own. There's plenty of shade, and the dam is just steps away, where you can also set up tables and chairs, but you'll need a shade cover because there are no trees near it. I've even seen people fishing in some areas."

Cogiu.

What People Like

Peace and tranquility
Natural landscapes
Birdwatching opportunities

What People Dislike

Lack of services
Water not clean

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The oasis is accessible via paved roads suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. You can pull over along the road as there isn't a designated parking lot. Reddit

Yes, the roads leading to the oasis are paved and easy to navigate, making it straightforward to reach by various vehicles. Reddit

Travelers report that cars, motorcycles, and bicycles are all suitable for reaching the oasis due to the good road conditions. Reddit

Information on public transport is limited, but the ease of road access suggests that private vehicles are the most common and convenient way to visit. Reddit

Absolutely! The paved roads make it a pleasant cycling destination for those who enjoy scenic rides. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of entry fees or ticket requirements for the general access to the oasis itself. It's a protected natural area. Reddit

As a natural oasis, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening times for any visitor centers are not widely published. Reddit

Based on traveler feedback, there doesn't appear to be an entrance fee for accessing the natural area. Reddit

The oasis is a natural habitat and can likely be visited year-round, though bird migration patterns will vary seasonally. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, local guides or WWF initiatives might offer tours. It's best to check with local tourism information or WWF Italy. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, nature photography, picnicking, and canoeing excursions on the lake. Reddit

Yes, there are picnic areas with wooden benches and tables, though they are not abundant. You can also bring your own setup. Reddit

Some reviews mention the water is not particularly clean, which is common for artificial lakes. It's primarily a habitat for wildlife. Reddit

The oasis is rich in fauna, especially birds like birds of prey, herons, and ducks. It's a key area for migratory species. Reddit

Yes, it's described as an oasis of peace perfect for a family day out, offering a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Unfortunately, there are no facilities like bars or restaurants within the oasis itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

While there are family-run agritourism farms in the vicinity, direct food services at the oasis are unavailable. Reddit

The best option is to pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic areas. Reddit

No, there are no facilities, including restrooms, available at the oasis. Reddit

It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as you'll be spending time in a natural setting with no services. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself, the diverse birdlife, and the surrounding natural landscapes offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit

Yes, with its rich bird population and wetland environment, it's a prime location for capturing images of wildlife. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape and wildlife photography. Reddit

A telephoto lens is recommended for capturing distant birds, but any camera can capture the scenic beauty. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitats. Reddit

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