The Special Nature Reserve of the Dormelletto Reed beds extends for 4 km over an area of 157 hectares between the towns of Arona and Castelletto Ticino.

Along with the similar area at Fondotoce, the Dormelletto reed bed is the only area of largely natural vegetation on the western shore of Lake Maggiore.

Its essential function as a water filter means that many species of fish find their ideal habitat here. And this diversity is reflected in the local fauna, which numbers many bird species, with over one hundred species counted so far. These are mostly water birds (grebes, swans, coots) which come here to nest, and migrating birds like swallows, which use the reserve to rest and feed.

The cycle tracks and paths crisscrossing the reed bed are an ideal way to enjoy a visit to the reserve, which offers a sharp contrast to the increasingly built-up area next to it.

The reserve has within its territory a well-known agricultural complex, Villa Tesio, where thoroughbred horses are bred, as well as several camping sites and the free beach of Pirolino, where there is also a children’s play area.