Fallow Deer hunting: In the presence of the mountains of the Piedmontese Apennines, with the sun filtering through the trees, the scent of earth and moss in the air, among the woods and clearings, the fallow deer moves with elegance, challenging the expert eyes of the hunters.
In Grondona, in the province of Alessandria, there is the reserve of Cascina Emanuele, an uncontaminated territory that extends for 2,200 hectares. Characterized by dense forests, large meadows and valleys rich in water, the reserve area is home to an intense variety of flora and fauna, including a significant number of fallow deers.
Thanks to mid climate ad abundance of food, Fallow deers trophy in Italy, are particulary huge.
Very widespread throughout the world, the fallow deer is a strong and cunning wild animal that lives in more or less numerous groups, depending on the territory it chooses as its home. During the year it changes two coats: an autumn/winter one of a typically brownish-grey color, a type of color that makes it less visible, and a spring/summer one with a reddish-brown coat with a median dorsal black stripe from the neck to the tail and white spots on your back and hips.
The male, characterized by large antlers, appears larger and more massive than the female and is distinguished based on age: fusone (1-2 years), balestrone (2-4 years) and palanchone (from 4 years onwards).
Particularly fond of olive tree and vineyard leaves, it loves to graze at dawn and dusk and, given its aversion to too harsh a climate, it usually does not go beyond a thousand metres. We mainly find it in mixed forests of tall broad-leaved trees, alternating with clearings. It prefers places with little slope and good woody cover such as Mediterranean scrub, hilly oak groves and hilly pine forests.
Thanks to its intermediate size compared to those of the other two cervids (roe deer and red deer), the fallow deer is a particularly sought-after species by hunters.
Huge trophies
At the prestigious hunting estate of Cascina Emanuele, the owners have a deep personal connection to their land and the exceptional quality of its fallow deer population. As their private estate, this sanctuary reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence and conservation. The privilege of hunting on this land is exclusively reserved for Montefeltro, ensuring that every outing is a unique and unparalleled experience.
The fallow deer of Cascina Emanuele are renowned for their extraordinary trophy size, a result of decades of meticulous and selective management. The owners, driven by a passion for perfection, have implemented a rigorous selection process to ensure only the best genetics are passed on. This careful approach has allowed the population to thrive, producing fallow bucks with antlers that are not only massive but also symmetrically impressive, making them some of the most coveted trophies in the hunting world.
The estate’s mild climate and the abundant availability of food play a crucial role in the development of such remarkable animals. The lush pastures, interspersed with rich woodlands, provide the deer with an ideal habitat. This environment ensures optimal nutrition throughout the year, allowing the bucks to reach their full potential both in size and strength.
Hunting at Cascina Emanuele is more than a pursuit; it is an immersion into a legacy of excellence. The estate stands as a testament to the dedication and passion of its owners, who have cultivated an environment where nature and tradition merge seamlessly. For those fortunate enough to experience it, this is hunting at its finest, set against the backdrop of a personal commitment to preserving the integrity and majesty of the land.
La Locanda del Daino restaurant and lodge
In the Cascina Emanuele reserve, in addition to quality hunting, you can enjoy hospitality that only Italians can offer. The hunting lodge, which has now become an inn, is one of the most historic houses in Grondona: the Daino inn. A place where tradition meets modernity and elements typical of a hunting lodge are combined with a refined and careful design that gives evocative and wild suggestions.
Here you can experiment with healthy and natural cuisine with almost entirely wild raw materials, resulting from careful research in the area that maintains the concept of sustainability as much as possible. Not only a kitchen with convivial and private environments, where you can have lunch, dinner and a snack, but also some exclusive rooms where you can stay overnight. La Locanda del Daino is a magical place in which to share moments of stories, stories and unforgettable experiences.
Rifles and ammunitions
When it comes to the technical aspects of fallow deer hunting, the choice of caliber and optics plays a critical role in ensuring a successful and ethical hunt. For fallow deer, an ideal caliber typically ranges between 6 mm and 7.62 mm, striking a balance between sufficient power for clean kills and manageable recoil for precision shooting. Popular and reliable options within this range include the 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Winchester, and .308 Winchester.
At the lighter end of the spectrum, the .243 Winchester is occasionally used, especially for younger or less experienced hunters due to its mild recoil. However, it is important to note that this caliber is on the smaller side and may not provide adequate knockdown power for larger or older bucks at longer distances. On the other hand, the .300 Winchester Magnum, while highly effective for long-range shots and larger game, can be overpowered for the medium-sized fallow deer and may cause unnecessary damage to the meat and trophy.
Ballistic Considerations for Fallow Deer
Fallow deer are medium-sized game with relatively light bone structure, so a cartridge delivering 1,800–2,500 ft-lbs of energy at typical hunting ranges (100–300 meters) is usually sufficient. Ballistic performance is key when hunting in environments such as the Cascina Emanuele estate, where shots may be taken across open fields or in wooded areas. Flat-shooting cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor or .270 Winchester excel in such scenarios, offering excellent accuracy and energy retention over distance.
When choosing ammunition, selecting a bullet designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration is essential. Options like Nosler Partition, Hornady SST, or Barnes TTSX are popular among hunters for their ability to deliver consistent terminal performance.
The Importance of Optics
Fallow deer are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the low-light hours of dawn and dusk. This behavior makes choosing the right optics a crucial factor for success. A scope with high light transmission is essential for clear visibility in dim conditions. Models with a large objective lens, such as 50mm or 56mm, combined with high-quality lens coatings, provide the necessary brightness.
For fallow deer hunting, medium magnification ranges between 3x and 12x are ideal. A 3-9×40 or 4-12×50 scope offers the versatility needed to handle both close-range shots in wooded areas and longer-range shots in open fields. A well-defined reticle is another important feature, as it ensures accurate placement of the shot. Reticles with illumination can be especially useful during low-light conditions.
Recommended Rifles for Fallow Deer Hunting
Given the caliber range and optical requirements, several rifle models stand out as excellent choices for fallow deer hunting. These include:
- Tikka T3x: Known for its precision, reliability, and smooth bolt-action, this rifle is available in several calibers suitable for fallow deer, such as the 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester. Its lightweight design and ergonomic features make it a favorite among hunters.
- Sako 85: A premium bolt-action rifle that offers exceptional accuracy and craftsmanship, ideal for hunters seeking a high-performance option. Its variety of configurations and calibers ensures adaptability to different hunting scenarios.
- Beretta BRX1: A revolutionary straight-pull rifle, the BRX1 combines speed, precision, and modularity. Its ability to switch calibers and its smooth, ambidextrous operation make it a versatile and innovative choice for fallow deer hunting.
- Benelli Lupo: This advanced bolt-action rifle is engineered for accuracy and comfort. The Lupo features an adjustable stock, exceptional ergonomics, and a cryogenically treated barrel, ensuring top-tier performance and reliability in calibers like .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor.
The Perfect Combination for Success
To optimize your hunting experience, pairing the right rifle and caliber with a top-tier scope is essential. For example, a Tikka T3x chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, fitted with a Steiner Ranger 4-16×56 scope, offers the precision, light-gathering capability, and ergonomic comfort needed for an ethical and rewarding hunt. Whether you prefer a classic cartridge like the .270 Winchester or the modern performance of a 6.5 Creedmoor, ensuring your gear matches the environment and the habits of fallow deer will greatly enhance your success in the field.
Hunting this specimen is a mixture of charm and emotion, an experience that goes beyond the simple search for a trophy: book and leave for a weekend of fallow deer hunting in Cascina Emanuele!
Add some leisure to your hunt
The hunting lodge of Cascina Emanuele offers more than just exceptional hunting opportunities—it is ideally situated near the Ligurian Riviera, making it a perfect destination for those traveling with family or friends. While the hunter enjoys the thrill of the hunt, companions can indulge in exploring some of the most enchanting and glamorous locations in the Mediterranean, such as Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, and the iconic Portofino.
Genoa: A City of History and Charm
Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is a city steeped in maritime history and culture. Known as “La Superba,” Genoa offers visitors a mix of historic charm and vibrant modernity. Its UNESCO-listed old town is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, majestic palaces, and lively squares. Highlights include the ancient port area, rejuvenated by Renzo Piano, and the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe. For food lovers, the city is the birthplace of pesto, making it a culinary destination not to be missed.
Santa Margherita Ligure: Elegance by the Sea
Just a short drive from Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure exudes coastal elegance. This picturesque seaside town is known for its colorful waterfront, charming boutiques, and serene atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along its palm-lined promenade, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or simply relax by the shimmering waters of the Ligurian Sea. Santa Margherita’s blend of refinement and relaxation makes it an ideal getaway for families and couples alike.
Portofino: The Crown Jewel of the Italian Riviera
No trip to the Ligurian Riviera is complete without a visit to Portofino, one of the most glamorous and sought-after destinations in the Mediterranean. Nestled in a natural harbor surrounded by lush hills, Portofino captivates visitors with its pastel-colored houses, exclusive boutiques, and upscale dining options. The village has long been a playground for the rich and famous, attracting celebrities, artists, and world travelers with its understated luxury and breathtaking scenery.
What makes Portofino so special? It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and refined lifestyle. From the enchanting Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, where you can sip a cappuccino while overlooking the harbor, to the breathtaking views from the Castello Brown, every corner of Portofino feels like a postcard come to life. The Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino offers hiking trails with panoramic vistas, while the Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, accessible only by boat or foot, adds a touch of mystery and history to the area. For those seeking luxury, Portofino’s high-end shops, 5 stars hotels like the Belmond Splendido and world-class restaurants deliver an unmatched experience.
Rent the owners villa in Portofino
The owners of the esteemed hunting estate of Cascina Emanuele extend their passion for exclusivity and refined living beyond the fields and forests. Nestled along the enchanting coastline between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, they also own a majestic villa that embodies the timeless beauty and sophisticated lifestyle of the Italian Riviera.
This villa is more than just a property—it is a masterpiece of elegance and charm, perfectly positioned to capture the essence of this glamorous Mediterranean region. Surrounded by lush gardens and boasting panoramic views of the sparkling sea, the villa offers a serene retreat where luxury and nature coexist harmoniously. Its architecture reflects the classic Riviera style, with spacious terraces, arched windows, and interiors that seamlessly blend tradition and modern comfort.
While the villa remains the private haven of its owners, on rare occasions, it is made available to selected guests who are invited to experience the Riviera’s unique allure. These privileged stays are not simply rentals but an invitation to immerse oneself in the culture, beauty, and sophisticated rhythm of life that define this part of the world.
Guests of the villa have the opportunity to savor mornings overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean, stroll along the picturesque promenades of Santa Margherita, or venture into the world-renowned village of Portofino, with its vibrant harbor, exclusive boutiques, and fine dining establishments. The villa itself serves as an ideal base for relaxation, with its private pool, spacious living areas, and personalized services designed to make every moment unforgettable.
Renting this villa is more than just a stay—it’s an entrée into a lifestyle. The owners’ dedication to showcasing the best of the Riviera ensures that each guest feels like part of an exclusive tradition, enjoying the elegance, tranquility, and understated luxury that have made this region a coveted destination for discerning travelers. For those lucky enough to be invited, it’s an experience that captures the heart and soul of the Ligurian coast.
A Perfect Balance of Adventure and Leisure
Combining a hunting adventure at Cascina Emanuele with a visit to the Ligurian Riviera creates an unforgettable experience for everyone in your travel group. While hunters enjoy the exceptional game and serene landscapes of the estate, their companions can immerse themselves in the history, culture, and glamour of Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Portofino. Whether exploring historic sites, shopping for designer treasures, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, making your trip as rewarding as it is memorable.
