Staying at villas in Italy offers travelers a world of opportunities when it comes to cultural and culinary wonders. Those booking their stay in the Lazio region can also check out one of the country's best natural attractions at the Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve.

Established in 1983, the reserve covers 3,000 hectares of oak-rich lands, rolling hills and a unique collection of animal life, with over 122 species found throughout the facility. The park's location on the border of Umbria and Tuscany allows for a substantial biodiversity in the area, with roughly 30 percent of the country's animal species represented on the grounds. Some of the critters you might see on a stroll through Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve include the tortoise and the short-toed eagle.

The park has also recently undergone a reforestation project, filling the Reserve with Mediterranean maqui, mixed oak wood and a number of coniferous trees.

You can get a better look at the local flora and fauna at the Museo Del Fiore, which leads visitors on flower tours, and guided walks through  many of the park's natural and cultural attractions.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals?  Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.