Five waterfalls to visit in Lombardy

With the arrival of the warm weather, why not get out of the closed spaces and frenetic rhythm of the city and recharge your batteries while surrounded by nature.

Luckily, Lombardy has no shortage of opportunities for you to do so. As well as the lakes and mountains, the region is also home to some spectacular natural waterfalls that are well worth a visit. From impressive waterfalls to smaller cascades hidden in charming corners, Lombardy offers some ideal destinations for nature lovers and hikers. Let's take a look at five of Lombardy’s waterfalls which, with their wild beauty and natural charm, are certain to take your breath away. Get ready to take a journey into the mountains, valleys and wood, where water is the star of some unforgettable scenery.

1. Cascata del Cenghen in Abbadia Lariana (LC) — The Cascata del Cenghen is a stunning waterfall, about 50 metres high, inside a narrow gorge in the Grigne mountain, on the Lecco side of Lake Como. It is fed by the cool waters of the River Zerbo, which flow through the limestone rocks and flourishing vegetation. The path to the waterfall offers breathtaking views and is accessible to anyone, which makes it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. The wild, untouched beauty of the countryside makes this setting simply perfect for relaxing, rejuvenating activities,such as a pleasant picnic outdoors. ph@istock

2. Cascate dell’Acquafraggia in Borgonuovo (SO) — Located in the municipality of Piuro, the Cascate dell'Acquafraggia is a gorgeous natural marvel of a waterfall in the Rhaetian Alps. Formed by the River Acquafraggia, from which it takes its name, the waters descend into the valley over a series of jumps and smaller cascades, culminating in a double main fall of approximately 170 metres. Celebrated for its stunning scenery, including by Leonardo da Vinci in one of his writings, this natural area - which is also very popular with tourists - offers panoramic trails that allow walkers to admire the same spectacular sight from different angles. ph@istock

3. Cascate del Serio in Valbondione (BG) — The Cascate del Serio waterfall, near Valbondione, is the highest waterfall in Italy and the second highest in Europe, with a total drop of 315 metres, divided into three leaps. This waterfall is fed by the Serio river and can only be reached on specific days of the year, when the dam of Barbellino is opened to release the waters. This controlled opening creates a breath-taking natural sight that regularly attracts visitors in their thousands. The waterfall has even been seen in Hollywood, as it appeared in a scene of Luca Guadagnino’s “Call Me By Your Name”. ph@istock

4. Cascata Val Nera in Livigno (SO) — Situated in the heart of Valdidentro, the Cascata di Val Nera is an authentic hidden jewel in the Italian Alps. Fed by the Nera river, this beautiful little waterfall flows wildly through the rocks. The trail leading to the cascade will take you through evergreen woods and flower meadows, and is suited to hikers of various levels. In summer, it is a cool, quiet refuge, and in winter, a fairytale scene. This enchanted location is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, as well as offering a peaceful haven off the beaten tourist track. ph@istock

5. Cascata della Froda in Castelveccana (VA) — The cascata della Froda, in the province of Varese, is a fascinating waterfall in the green setting of Lombardy’s Prealps, Located near the village of Nasca, a district of the municipality of Castelveccana, it is easily reached along a hiking trail that offers breathtaking panoramic views. With a drop of some 70 metres, the spectacular cascade is well worth a visit during the rainy season, when the water flow is at its peak. The surrounding area is ideal for picnics and walks, making it a perfect destination for lovers of nature and trekking. ph@istock

Sesto Calende

Sesto Calende: between history and nature.

Active & Green

Brescia Nature, taste and traditions: Val Sabbia

From multiple-day treks with night-breaks at mountain huts, to shorter walks open to all: a charming valley for all tastes set against the background of the little lake Idro

Active & Green

Motorcycle touring in Lombardy

Motorcycle routes, getting to know Lombardy with the thrill of two wheels

Active & Green

Le bine

You want to see the Lataste frog, one of the rarest amphibians in Europe, then come to the Le Bine nature reserve.

Active & Green

Parco dello Stelvio, Bormio and Valdidentro

Walks and strenuous hikes in the heart of the Stelvio National Park surrounded by unspoilt nature and in close contact with mountain fauna

Active & Green

Doing sports in Varese

From rowing on the lake to gliding. From cycling to trekking. From golf to horse riding. Tips for playing sports in Varese

Active & Green

The joy of running

Enjoy your training in Cremona

Active & Green

Hiking with the Family

Active & Green

Pump Track

The Pump Track is a track consisting of small jumps, bumps and parabolic curves, designed to be ridden without ever pedaling!

Active & Green

Iron bridges, man-made constructions

Iron bridges, bold testimonies to the early 20th century

Active & Green

The Rusca trail

Sondrio, Ponchiera, Arquino, Valdone, Il Prato, Tornadù, Torre Santa Maria, S.Anna, Basci, Vassalini a Chiesa Valmalenco - ritorno a Sondrio

Active & Green

Mountain flowers in May

Six itineraries to discover this month's flowers in the mountains of Lombardy

Active & Green

Concarena, Gavia and Mortirolo: adventures on foot and by bike

The wildest side of Valle Camonica: from gorges for experts to the uphill hairpin bends that have written the history of the Giro d’Italia

Active & Green

The project "Beega"

Cremona’s Bycicle Touring

Active & Green

Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

An event that looks to the future, sustainability and inclusion, immersed in the charm of the Lombard landscape and tradition.

Active & Green

Horse riding

Active & Green

Discovering the lavender fields in Oltrepò Pavese

Not just Provence: lavender fields can also be found in Oltrepò Pavese.

Active & Green

The most beautiful gorges!

The six most beautiful gorges to visit in Lombardy: those of Bellano and Nesso, the most famous, and the equally spectacular gorges of Caino, Cunardo, Val Taleggio and Via Mala

Active & Green

Gema promenade - source of the Frascesca

Easy route and especially suitable for families with children

Active & Green

Oasis of San Giuliano Milanese

Urban oasis of San Giuliano Milanese: the demonstration of the green that wins in the middle of the cement.

Active & Green