Cascate di Fanes & Ponte Outo
Spectacular waterfalls and canyons in the Dolomites, featuring an easy via ferrata behind the main cascade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Amazing colors, fewer crowds
Cascate di Fanes & Ponte Outo
Best Time
Amazing colors, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Spectacular waterfalls and canyons in the Dolomites, featuring an easy via ferrata behind the main cascade.
"The place behind the waterfall is perfectly safe. I didn’t use it."
🥾 Easy Hike Option
Follow trail 10 from Parcheggio Sant’Uberto for a scenic 1-hour hike to the falls.
🧗 Via Ferrata Gear
While not essential for the immediate waterfall area, consider via ferrata gear for the full experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascate di Fanes
Main waterfall
Witness a spectacular cascade with a significant drop, offering stunning views and a unique experience behind the water.
+1
Via Ferrata Giovanni Barbara
Behind the main waterfall
An easy via ferrata (A/B) that allows you to walk behind the powerful waterfall, providing an exhilarating perspective.
Rio di Fanes River Scenery
Trail to the falls
Enjoy the beautiful river scenery, canyons, and smaller cascades along the well-maintained trail leading to the main waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Via Ferrata or Scenic Hike?
Parking and Trail Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Easy Hike Option
Follow trail 10 from Parcheggio Sant’Uberto for a scenic 1-hour hike to the falls.
🧗 Via Ferrata Gear
While not essential for the immediate waterfall area, consider via ferrata gear for the full experience.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Pack essentials for your hike, though a kiosk is available at the start.
📸 Capture the Views
The autumn colors and water hues are particularly stunning for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Easy Hike Option
Follow trail 10 from Parcheggio Sant’Uberto for a scenic 1-hour hike to the falls.
🧗 Via Ferrata Gear
While not essential for the immediate waterfall area, consider via ferrata gear for the full experience.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Pack essentials for your hike, though a kiosk is available at the start.
📸 Capture the Views
The autumn colors and water hues are particularly stunning for photography.
🔄 Consider a Loop
Explore the Ferrata Lucio Dalaiti for a potential round trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Cascate di Fanes, particularly the unique experience of walking behind the waterfall via the easy via ferrata. The scenic hike along the Rio di Fanes river is also a major highlight, with many appreciating the less crowded atmosphere compared to other Dolomite attractions. Some found the return hike challenging if a full loop wasn't possible.
"Very nice to see the waterfall, we parket at Parcheggio Sant’Uberto and followed trail 10 to go to the waterfalls… however you cannot make a round trip as the road down next to the waterfall seems to be swollen by the water. Therefore we had to hike all the way back, which was tough but insane views."
Brian S
"Beautiful waterfall. You can go behind it. That’s pretty cool.
- the last approximately 100m to the waterfall is a via ferrata - a easy one A/B, so if you are use to exposed trails, you don’t need the via ferrata equipment. I didn’t use it. The place behind the waterfall is perfectly safe.
I didn’t continue further - the ferrata is longer but still easy. Because of the slippery terrain it’s good to use the ferrata equipment.
The hike to the waterfall is easy up to 1h from the parking place."
Radoslav Golian
"Great view less touristy so come at any time you will enjoy it greatly. We took the easy hike."
larry jeremiah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is Parcheggio Sant’Uberto, near Cortina d’Ampezzo. From there, follow trail 10 towards the waterfalls.
Yes, there is parking available at Parcheggio Sant’Uberto.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is the closest major town, approximately a 15-minute drive away.
Information on direct public transport to the trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. mentions parking in Tiarno di Sotto for a different waterfall, suggesting car access is common for these natural sites.
While Parcheggio Sant’Uberto is popular, some longer hikes might begin from other points within the Fanes-Sennes-Prags natural park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Cascate di Fanes and the surrounding trails is generally free.
As a natural attraction, there are no set opening hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. mentions a kiosk and toilets at the beginning, implying some facilities might have hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit the waterfalls.
No booking is required as it's a natural park and free to access. advises bringing water and food.
As part of a natural park, visitors are expected to respect the environment and stay on marked trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from Parcheggio Sant’Uberto is approximately 1 kilometer (about 1 hour) and is considered easy.
The trail to the base of the waterfall is generally easy. The via ferrata section behind the waterfall is rated A/B, suitable for beginners. +1
Yes, the Via Ferrata Giovanni Barbara allows you to walk behind the main waterfall, offering a unique and immersive experience.
For the easy A/B rated via ferrata behind the waterfall, equipment is not strictly necessary if you are comfortable on exposed trails, but it is recommended for safety, especially on slippery terrain.
The trail follows the Rio di Fanes, which features a succession of smaller cascades and river scenery along the way.
📸 📸 Photography
The area behind the waterfall offers a dramatic perspective. The scenic river trail also provides numerous photo opportunities.
Autumn offers stunning colors, while morning light can be ideal for capturing the mist and water flow.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the waterfall and canyon. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Drone usage in natural parks can be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The beautiful river scenery and the impressive waterfall itself are sure to capture their imagination. For families with older children or teens who are a bit more adventurous, the easy Via Ferrata Giovanni Barbara offers a unique thrill. While gear isn't strictly mandatory for the immediate area behind the falls, it's recommended for safety.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Beyond the immediate waterfall area, the Fanes plateau is a vast natural park with potential for longer treks and multi-day hikes.
📸 Photographers
Autumn is a particularly good season for photography, with the changing leaves adding vibrant hues to the landscape.
suggests flexibility in travel plans, which can be useful for photographers waiting for the perfect light or conditions.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Via Ferrata Experience
This via ferrata is not just about the thrill; it's also about immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Dolomites. The path is carved into the rock, allowing you to feel the spray of the water and hear its roar. It's a fantastic way to add an adventurous element to your visit without requiring extensive climbing experience.
Remember to check the weather conditions before attempting the via ferrata, as wet rock can become significantly more challenging. If you're new to via ferratas, consider going with someone experienced or joining a guided tour for added safety and confidence.
Hiking Trails and Scenery
For those seeking a more extended adventure, the Fanes plateau itself is a vast and relatively untouched area within the Dolomites.
When planning your hike, consider the season. Autumn, in particular, is praised for its vibrant colors, making the already beautiful scenery even more breathtaking.
emphasizes the importance of flexibility when traveling, which applies to navigating trails as well.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit