This year, more than ever, people are choosing to spend their time outdoors and explore all the incredible natural beauty that nature has to offer. Southern Italy is blessed with some of the most beautiful mountain trails and impressive views overlooking lush valleys and never-ending coastlines.
A walk in the woods will not only melt away the stresses of everyday life, but it also gives your lungs the gift of fresh air and your body a chance to get moving in a way that is gratifying physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Strolling through the wilderness surrounded by trees, flowers, the occasionally mysterious cavern is made that much more magical when you find yourself standing before one of Mother Nature’s most fascinating works of art – the waterfall!
When visiting southern Italy don’t forget that there are some unique and beautiful outdoor activities that you can enjoy with the family. These experiences can be a welcome addition to your itinerary – not to mention, it’s a great way to mix things up on your trip and get a taste of all the unique experiences that await you here.
Below are just a few of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southern Italy. And if we leave you feeling inspired, why not join us in Calabria? Book one of our Small Group Trips to Southern Italy.
Cascate del Rio Verde (Abruzzo)
The Apennine Mountains stretch nearly the entire length of Italy, from Liguria in the north to Calabria in the south. In the region of Abruzzo, near the town of Borrello in the province of Chieti, you’ll find one of Italy’s tallest waterfalls: the Rio Verde Waterfall (Cascate del Rio Verde). This majestic waterfall plunges over 200 meters down a cliff covered with lush greenery, including bushes, trees, and vibrant plant life, before merging with the Sangro River below.
The hike to the falls takes between one and two hours, depending on the path you choose, and it’s family-friendly, making it a great option for children. Each trail offers a unique perspective of the area, but for the best view, head to the lower observation deck. Keep in mind that reaching the base of the waterfall involves descending numerous wooden steps. However, if you take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way, you’ll be rewarded with a truly breathtaking view of the falls.
Morigerati Oasis-Bussento Caves (Campania)
Take a trip to the enchanting caverns of Morigerati in the province of Cilento, and you’ll quickly see why it’s known as an oasis. Nestled within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, this stunning area features a majestic trail that winds through the lush natural habitat, with paths carved directly into the rock.
The trail leads down to the Bussento River, immersing you in the heart of this protected park’s vibrant flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming caverns and playful waterfalls that add to the magical atmosphere. At the trail’s end, you’ll find an old mill surrounded by a small pond, fed by a picturesque waterfall—a scene that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
The hike takes about 30 minutes, but we recommend taking your time to fully appreciate the intricate beauty and hidden details of this captivating place.
La Scialata (Calabria)
In the heart of the Aspromonte Mountains in the Province of Reggio Calabria, La Scialata is a nature lover’s paradise. This scenic trail takes you down into a serene valley toward a gentle stream, offering breathtaking views along the way. After a short and easy walk, you’ll arrive at the stunning “Fellare” waterfall, where the true magic of this place begins to unfold.
A rocky path leads you into an enchanting forest filled with cascading waterfalls and babbling brooks. As you journey deeper into this lush oasis, you’ll cross wooden bridges and climb small ladders, immersing yourself in the vibrant greenery of this untouched landscape. The trail takes about two and a half hours to complete and features a well-equipped picnic area, perfect for pausing to reflect on the natural beauty and wonders of this mountain haven.
This brings a close to our short guide to some of Calabria’s most beautiful waterfalls. If you’d like to explore this magnificent region of Italy in the company of expert local guides, please explore our Small Group Tours in Calabria.
