When you think of Italy, first and foremost, imagine the rich historical sites, the culture, and the vineyards producing world-class wine. Still, the landscapes in Italy offer so much more than that – including some incredible waterfalls. Whether it be spending time in luscious green forests or frolicking around the sun-kissed alpine valleys, we bring forth, for all you wanderlust souls out there, a complete guide to some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Italy—what it feels like to be there, what not to miss and utmost safety concerns to make your trip worth remembering forever.
1. Cascata delle Marmore, Umbria
Location: Near Terni, Umbria.
One of the most visited sites is Cascata delle Marmore, the hundred and sixty-five meters high artificial waterfall. Made initially by the Romans, this waterfall is an ancient and literal force of nature. That cool mist is so powerful that it feels like walking into an open refrigerator. It has several rich forests with hiking trails maintain it.
What TO DO:
- Be there at water releases (check the time).
- Visit nearby caves.
- Hike along multiple trails for fab vista points from different directions.
There is even a strict whitewater for thrill-seekers to have maximum fun: rafting.
How to Experience: Either view from the upper observation deck for a panoramic view or go below where the action is. It’s also a great place to take the family for a picnic or to get away with a loved one.
Advice: You should wear good shoes because the paths near the falls are slippery, and you must put on a rain jacket to protect yourself from getting wet from the waterfall
2. Cascate del Serio, Lombardy
Place of birth: Valbondione, Lombardy
Italy’s tallest natural waterfall, at 315 m in height, lies within the incredible Cascate del Serio. However, due to the dam that manages it, you can only see it sometimes. This makes the waterfall seem even more holy as the water crashes over three dramatic drops. Hiking in from the highway up through alpine meadows is also very scenic and adds to the whole adventure.
When to Visit: The Maletsunyane River roars over it only on a handful of days a year (usually five times a year). Hikers looking to scale new heights can splash their way around the village of Valbondione, home to Seriana Valley’s roaring torrents.
Savoring Notes: Pack a picnic and bask in the serenity of the high alpine landscape. It is also great for hikers and photographers who want to photograph a rare beauty.
A few precautions: This is a rugged trail, so it’s best for more experienced hikers. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled up, and adjust your departure time based on the weather.
3. Cascate di Saturnia, Tuscany
Location: Manciano, Tuscany.
Though it isn’t a waterfall in the typical way, Cascate di Saturnia is a famous thermal spring and waterfall where warm, mineral-rich water flows over natural terraced pools. The water is sulfurous and comes at around 37°C, which makes for the most comforting experience during your stay.
What to Do: Take a soak in the terraced pools of the Roman baths. Most people spend hours here, relaxing in the warm water and soaking in the natural sights and sounds. You can also spend some time in the beautiful village of Saturnia.
Enjoyment: Try to get there early, as it fills up very quickly. Grab a pool spot! It is also a beautiful place for relaxation, meditation, and an on-site experience in nature structured around a spa.
Note of Caution: The rocks are slippery, and the water is moving. Ensure you wear suitable water shoes with soles to avoid staying for longer in the pools; otherwise, that could cause dehydration
4. Cascata del Toce, Piedmont
Place: Val Formazza, Piemonte.
Cascata del Toce is a 143-meter-high waterfall emerging from the Ossola Valley. The falls are most impressive in the summer when snowmelt from the Alps boosts the flow. Guests can stand on a dedicated bridge at the top and take a sweeping view of the water cascading downwards.
Plan: Hike to the Falls for Aerial views, hit the nearby trails, and relax with a Picnic in the alpine Meadows. The meadows are surrounded by several alpine huts, where you can also enjoy a drink.
What to Do: The complete panoramic bridge leads beside the waterfall, offering incredible views of the Formazza Valley. The sunset view is exceptional for Photographers.
Note: The altitude will make it colder. Hike in layers! The trail gets steep in places, so wear hiking boots and carry enough water with you.
5. Cascata delle Ninfe, Campania
Where: Cilento National Park, Campania
Located deep in the Cilento National Park, Cascata delle Ninfe is an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular tourist sights. This crystal-clear pool, suitable for swimming and lounging, is surrounded by lush greenery.
What’s To Do: Swim underneath the waterfall down into the pool or find even more secluded trails going through the surrounding forests. Pack a picnic to sit by the river.
The experience: Isolated from the world, a slow and relaxed evening awaits. The best time to come is early morning when you can enjoy peace, away from worshipping crowds.
Caution: The rocks around the waterfall are covered with moss, making them very slippery. Wear good shoes and bring natural insect bug spray for the brush around this area.
6. Cascate di Riva, South Tyrol
Location: Cambut Teures, South Tyrol
Three cascades in a forested area of the Aurina Valley, with the noise of a river gushing nearby and lush forest cover, make it an ideal location for nature lovers. There are clearly marked paths leading to each of the waterfalls, where you can enjoy some fresh mountain air and breathtaking scenery.
Activities: Trek through the green forest to see the waterfalls for a better panoramic view. The route has rich terrain, like wooden bridges, remarkable views, and perfect photo points.
Archibald by Brian JaggersHow To Enjoy: Spend the day hiking through the serene forest. Backtrack: If you enjoy photography, there are many beautiful photogenic falls.
Safety: Trails are uneven, so good walking shoes are required. Careful near the edge of the waterfall due to slippery rocks after rain.
7. Cascata di Stroppia, Piedmont
Dove: Valle Maira, Piemonte
Cascata di Stroppia is one of Italy’s highest waterfalls, dropping about 500 meters, allowing an exciting view. For the more adventurous, Valle Maira is an almost secret paradise for those seeking solitude and total immersion in pristine nature with beautiful landscapes. Although the hike requires some effort, you will be satisfied.
Activities: Hiking is the only real option here. The rugged trails take you away from the park and offer great views of the valley and mountains. The lower parts of the waterfall offer peace and views to appreciate.
How to Experience: A day hike, picnic, and head to one of Italia’s most peaceful and unspoiled valleys. Late spring makes seeing the waterfall all the prettier when the snowmelt feeds it.
Precautions: The weather can change at high altitudes. Dress in layers and bring a map or GPS, as it is remote and easy to get turned around. This trek is only suitable for experienced trekkers.
Last words on how to appreciate the Italian waterfall
Best Time To Go: Spring and early summer are great times to go, as the snow melts, water levels rise, and everything is green.
Stay safe: keep to the signposted paths, and do not go near the streamside, especially after rain when surfaces can be slippery. Local advice – Please confirm before swimming
Cascade del Serio: fountain of water with a sequence. Others, like Cascata di Stroppia, involve a problematic hike and must be well-planned in advance.
Keep nature Wild: Never take more than what you entered with; leave these pristine locations as you discovered them so others can enjoy their beauty.