The Cascate di Fanes are a double waterfall plunging into a narrow gorge, reached by a short but dramatic walk along the stream.
The route, partly fitted with boardwalks, suits families with reasonably fit children.
How Fanes Waterfalls: the hike to the hidden cascades compares with the other lakes, and what changes from one to the next: Lakes of the Dolomites: the most beautiful ones and how to visit them.
How to get there — Centro visitatori del parco, Fiàmes (1.314 m)
The Fanes waterfalls are in the Ampezzo Dolomites Nature Park, just north of Cortina. By car, take the SS51 Alemagna road towards Dobbiaco and, past the Fiàmes area, turn left down the narrow road to the park visitor centre, where there is a large car park at 1,314 metres. From there follow trail 10: down to the stream, across it and on the flat to the Pian de Lòa clearing at 1,350 metres, then up to Ponte Outo, the high bridge over the gorge at 1,450 metres, and the viewpoints over the falls. Allow about an hour and 150 metres of ascent to the viewpoints.
The trailhead is in the Cortina d'Ampezzo area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Along the stream
Follow the path that climbs the gorge to the boardwalk sections.
2. Waterfall viewpoint
Reach the panoramic platforms overlooking the cascades.
When to go & weather
May to October is the good window, once the trail is clear of snow and ice and the stream is in full flow. Late spring, with the thaw under way, gives the most powerful, thunderous waterfalls. Summer is the busiest season, while autumn colours the gorge in warm tones and brings fewer people. After heavy rain the boardwalks and rock turn slippery, so pick settled days and go carefully on the equipped sections.
Recommended gear
- Trekking boots or shoes with good grip, because the boardwalks often stay damp
- A waterproof jacket or shell, since the spray from the falls wets the trail
- Water and a snack, especially with children
- Optional poles, handy on the sections with ladders and uneven ground
- A camera you can shield from the spray to catch the waterfalls
Useful tips
- Take the boardwalks and ladders carefully, especially where the spray keeps the wood and rock permanently wet
- Go after the thaw or following a rainy spell, when the falls are at their fullest
- With children, pick a dry day and keep them close on the equipped sections
- Bring a light jacket even in summer, because the air in the gorge stays cool and damp
- If you have time and energy, push on towards the Sbarco de Fanes to lengthen the walk into the valley
Frequently asked questions
Are the Cascate di Fanes suitable for children?
Yes, if the children are used to walking a bit. It is short, but there are boardwalks and steps: keep an eye on them on the stretches above the stream.
How far do you walk to reach the Cascate di Fanes?
The stretch up to the first waterfalls is short: a handful of kilometres out and back with little ascent, in a couple of hours including stops. Ideal if you want a short walk with a big payoff.
Are the Cascate di Fanes accessible all year round?
No. The recommended season runs from May to October. In winter and the shoulder seasons the equipped stretches and the rock can be icy and genuinely dangerous. With snow or ice, give it a miss.
Can I take a pushchair on the Cascate di Fanes path?
No, there are boardwalks and steps on uneven ground, not suitable for pushchairs. It is fine, though, for children who walk a bit, guided carefully over the equipped passages.
