This area extends for about 10 hectares on the west slope of Mount Prinzera at an altitude of about 540 to 724 metres in the municipalities of Terenzo and Fornovo, in the higher area of Val Sporzana (Parma).
In 1988, Pro Natura proposed to the Ministry of Environment an environmental requalification study project of the Bardone-Monte Prinzera District and in so doing brought about the establishment of an oasis.
In 1992 the institution of the protected reserve, on behalf of Emilia-Romagna region, intervened in proclaiming the importance of the area.

As far as the geological aspect is concerned, it has volcanic origins with allochthonous, ophiolitic formations composed of magmatic rock and their alterations with the prevalence of periodites and serpentine sand rarely basaltic. This distinct basic rock formation is poor in silica, and chemically rich in iron and magnesium, and poor in phosphorous, calcium, sodium and potassium. The combinations of these factors of the earth with the other climatic and other environmental characteristics together with climatic history of the Quaternary era has made it a true and authentic biogenetic island and has determined a rich and varied population of flora with a concentration of numerous endemic species having ecological and biogeografical characteristics typical of relics and thus of great scientific interest. Among the 350 species of superior plants catalogued so far, over 30 belong to the protected species, according to the regional law, with the presence of numerous ophiolitic and geographic endemism and other species that grow sheltered on the rocks.

This area has a diversified environment and an abundance of habitats which favour the variety of fauna. There also numerous species of insects and amphibians as well as a considerably important birdlife population which is permanently represented such as the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa), the buzzard, the sparrow hawk (Accipiter nisus), the kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) and the tawny owel (Strix aluco).
Among the mammals are the wild hare, the squirrel, the fox, the stone marten, the weasel, the wild boar and the roe. Another attraction must not be forgotten and it is that of the historical-artistic patrimony.

While travelling along the ancient route called “Strada Romea” of Mount Bardone, the visitor cannot help but notice the remarkable beauty of such testimony with particular attention given to the Pieve di Bardone. Pro Natura Parma which manages the oasis under the National Federation has set up a nature trail which develops through a series of observation points which allow visitors to understand the main environmental characteristics of the territory. Moreover, in the centre of ancient village of Bardone, in Val Sporzana, a few rooms of a former elementary school have been transformed into an Environmental Centre. This study centre is equipped for various teaching and study activities and for environmental education and contains an archives and a technical video library with the possibility of hosting groups to provide activities for lessons, debates and meetings.