Bilancino is the largest artificial lake in Tuscany. It has a surface of 5 kmq making it possible to increase the water -supply of Florence, Prato and Pistoia.

The Bilancino lake is a 5 square km artificial basin created to reduce water supply shortages and flood risk in Florence and surroundings. Bilancino is in the vicinity of Barberino di Mugello and it boasts top bathing facilities that an increasing number of enthusiasts prefer to seaside beaches for the fresher climate.

The lake is suitable for swimming, canoeing, sailing and windsurfing, and it hosts both Italian and international competitive events.

In the summer months, public bathing and swimming is also possible in the municipal pools of Borgo San Lorenzo, Vicchio, Marradi and Palazzuolo sul Senio.

It is a dam built against flood danger, even if it has the distinctive features of a natural lake.

Gabbianello WWF oasis is full of mallards, storks, cranes and pink flamingos. Here you can appreciate the naturalistic value of landscape, plants and animals. On the shore of the lake and in its clean water, there are many activities you can do, such as bathing, canoing, sailing, windsurf, trekking, mountain bike. Lake Bilancino is located in the uncontaminated natural environment of Mugello, full of cultural and artistic beauties.

Lake Bilancino's construction has not only been one of the most important works in Italy, it has also been one of the first opportunities to draft the principles of sustainable tourist growth, that is the Plan of Functions of the Borough of Barberino di Mugello.

Hotel Villa Campestri occupies an ancient building situated in the hills around Florence. First records of the villa date from the 13th century. At that time the nucleus of the villa was a small defensive fortified building protected by watchtowers, the remains of which can still be seen today. In 1430 the fortified building was enlarged and transformed in manor house. Subsequent architectural modifications were made in the late 1800's which resulted in the villa's present renaissance style appearance. The façade of Villa Campestri complete with decorative frieze was an early 20th century addition as were the valuable decorative glass windows which adorn the windows of the chapel, a number of the guest rooms and what is now the hotel restaurant.

The Gabbianello Oasis brings visitors in touch with a wetland habitat of great natural interest for the high number of both sedentary species (ducks, mallards, garganeys) and migratory birds.

The most prized wetland species for birdwatching enthusiasts include bitterns, wild geese, white storks, flamingoes and blackwinged stilts, while the sky abounds in birds of prey such as kestrels, buzzards, ospreys, marsh and hen harriers.