Responsibilities and functions
The Alpi Ledrensi Network extends from the northern shores of Lake Garda to the lakes of Idro and Tenno and is situated between two protected areas of primary importance: the Adamello Brenta Natural Park to the north and the Alto Garda Bresciano Natural Park to the south.
Its intermediate position between the two parks and the numerous protected areas within its borders allows a large number of animals - especially ungulates and large carnivores - to move safely through the alpine territory.
Together, the parks and network of reserves form a true ecological corridor, a guarantee of protection between north and south for birds as well. Situated along the Italo-Hispanic route, followed by migratory birds crossing the Alps in autumn, the Network is an essential stop on their exhausting journey south.
At Bocca di Caset, Alpo di Bondone, Bocca Trat and Saval in the right season it is possible to observe the passage of very special bird species.
Wetlands, heaths and alpine meadows, mugo thickets and expanses of rhododendrons, large areas of forest: a great natural diversity and little urbanisation of the area translate into the high degree of wilderness and great variety of landscapes that make this area unique. Thus, for experts but also for curious amateurs, the area is a sought-after destination: in fact, the largest number of endemic plants but of the entire Alpine chain is concentrated here. Among the best-known blooms to be seen on calcareous terrain is that of the rare Spitzel's Orchid (May-July), or the endangered Elisabeth's Silene, or even the discreet Duby's Violet (May-July), the snow-white Ranunculus bilobo of the stony pastures (June-July) or the Telekia speciosissima known as Erba splendida (June-July).
The close relationship between the area and human activities began already in prehistoric times (9000 years ago) with groups of Mesolithic hunters and gatherers moving between the peaks and the valley floors. The pile-dwelling site in Valle di Ledro, together with other archaeological sites in the area, reconstructs the evolution of this important relationship that has shaped the landscape of the area over the centuries. Hunting and gathering over time were in fact transformed into agriculture and livestock breeding, activities that are still today the basis of the economy and physiognomy of these valleys.
The area has a good network of trails and infrastructure. The Network of Reserves manages some visitor facilities such as the Lake Ampola Centre, the Mons. Ferrari Visitor Centre for Flora and Fauna in Tremalzo and the International Bird Ringing Centre at the Bocca di Caset pass.
