Reserve and protected area
Riserva Naturale del Rio Bragna
Costigliole d’Asti · Isola d’Asti
Rio Bragna preserves a woodland corridor between the hills of Costigliole and Isola d’Asti. Its interest lies in the relationship between water, slopes and vegetation: an intimate landscape amid the surrounding vineyards.
A valley among the hills
The reserve protects about 200.60 hectares in Costigliole d’Asti and Isola d’Asti. The stream belongs to the Tanaro’s right-bank tributary system; its whole catchment is much larger than the reserve. Wooded strips, small drainage channels and slopes interrupt the farmland. Public roads offer a way to observe the contrast between cultivated slopes and denser vegetation on the valley floor. The stream descends from around 350 metres towards the Tanaro valley floor.
Streamside woodland
Pedunculate oaks, black poplars, wild cherries and field maples contribute to woodland diversity. Cooler places also support hornbeam and occasional alder. Vegetation changes with moisture and past cutting, so wooded sections differ in composition. Bark, leaves and the structure of the undergrowth provide useful clues. Robinia and other introduced species reveal how human activity has changed the woodland.
Diverted water and rural work
Bragna’s landscape records a long history of water management. A diversion towards the Mongovone valley is linked to drainage works begun around the seventeenth century. Mills and tanning activities once operated here; the name Feiteria preserves that working history.
Planning a visit
A guided visit with the Parco Paleontologico Astigiano helps interpret woodland, water and rural history. For an independent walk, choose a published route and check recent conditions. Mud-ready footwear is useful in wet periods; Costigliole and Isola d’Asti add viewpoints and services.
Places to discover
Open a place on the map to find your bearings. Follow permitted access routes and signs on site.
Costigliole d’Asti
Costigliole offers a useful viewpoint for understanding the Rocca and its valleys.
Open in Google Maps · Costigliole d’AstiMongovone
Mongovone valley is linked to the historic diversion of Bragna waters.
Open in Google Maps · MongovoneIsola d’Asti
Isola d’Asti includes the eastern part of the reserve and completes the view of its hill landscape.
Open in Google Maps · Isola d’AstiBefore you visit
How large is the reserve?
The reserve covers 200.60 hectares. The Rio Bragna catchment is larger, about 10 km²: the figures describe different boundaries.
Can I follow the stream bed?
Do not treat it as a trail: water, vegetation and unstable slopes can block passage. Use permitted routes and check conditions first.