Top 15 Waterfalls around Madesimo
Best waterfalls around Madesimo are found in a picturesque area of the Italian Alps, offering diverse natural beauty. This region is characterized by its mountainous terrain and numerous streams, which create a variety of captivating waterfalls. Visitors can explore these natural features, which range from powerful cascades to more secluded drops, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration. The landscape around Madesimo is shaped by these water features, making them a central part of the area's appeal.
Best waterfalls around Madesimo
- The most popular waterfalls is View of Acquafraggia Waterfalls, a viewpoint that offers impressive views of the falls. These waterfalls are located in Borgonuovo and are known for their double jump.
- Another must-see spot is Roffla Gorge, a gorge and waterfall that winds along the A13 national highway. This site has a rich history, with its accessibility painstakingly rebuilt in the early 20th century.
- Visitors also love Spluga Falls, a waterfall with small pools that gather between the rocks. It is a suitable place for a break along the Via Spluga.
- Madesimo is known for gorges, viewpoints, and various waterfalls. The area offers a range of waterfalls to see and explore, from those with historical significance to those providing scenic overlooks.
- The waterfalls around Madesimo are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 photos and over 470 upvotes.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Roffla Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Catino Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Starting from Scalcoggia on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel you arrive in Pianazzo, home to the town hall.
Following the old carriage road, with a length of about 1.3 km and a difference in altitude of 150 meters, it is a walk reserved for pedestrians and bicycles.
This is illuminated and has some rest areas immersed in the greenery of nature.
The Pianazzo Waterfall, with its 180 meters of drop, is the highest waterfall in the valley, also fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The arrival of the walk comes out right on the belvedere.
Text / Quelle: Regionale lombardia.it
in-lombardia.it/it/cascata-di-pianazzo
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
View of Acquafraggia Waterfalls
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Acquafraggia Suspension Bridge
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Madesimo.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Madesimo
Between deep canyons, waterfalls and turquoise lakes – Via Spluga
Long-distance hiking in the Grisons — 3 routes in Switzerland
On the viaSpluga from Thusis to Chiavenna
Inverno in Valtellina, a passo lento sulla neve
Oasi di tranquillità alpina – 5 laghi da non perdere in Valchiavenna
La Valchiavenna in MTB – itinerari da non perdere
Hiking around Madesimo
Road Cycling Routes around Madesimo
MTB Trails around Madesimo
Running Trails around Madesimo
Other adventures around Madesimo
Tips from the Community
beautiful area to enjoy
4
0
Pianazzo Waterfall Starting from the town of Scalcoggia, on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel, you reach Pianazzo, the seat of the town hall. Along the old carriage road, about 1.3 km long and with a height difference of 150 meters, it is a walkway reserved for pedestrians and bicycles. It is illuminated and has some stopping points surrounded by the green of nature. The Pianazzo Waterfall, with its 180 meters of drop, is the highest waterfall in the valley, which is also fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The arrival of the promenade comes out directly on the viewpoint. Text / Source: Regionale lombardia.it https://www.in-lombardia.it/it/cascata-di-pianazzo
10
0
Pianazzo Waterfall Starting from Scalcoggia on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel you arrive in Pianazzo, home to the town hall. Following the old carriage road, with a length of about 1.3 km and a difference in altitude of 150 meters, it is a walk reserved for pedestrians and bicycles. This is illuminated and has some rest areas immersed in the greenery of nature. The Pianazzo Waterfall, with its 180 meters of drop, is the highest waterfall in the valley, also fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The arrival of the walk comes out right on the belvedere. Text / Quelle: Regionale lombardia.it https://www.in-lombardia.it/it/cascata-di-pianazzo
11
0
The restaurant is the entrance to the Roffla Gorge. The entrance fee of CHF 4 is well worth it. You can also enjoy a fine meal at the restaurant after the tour. The wooden tables in the garden restaurant come from the restaurant's own sawmill, and the awning in front of the restaurant comes from the restaurant's own spinning mill.
6
0
Spectacular panoramic point over the VALLEY...worth the visit💯
0
0
From the viewing platform there is a breathtaking view down below
4
0
The Mojitos at the foot of the waterfalls are a killer...
3
0
This gorge was more impressive for me than the Viamala gorge
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls in the Madesimo area are easily accessible for a leisurely visit?
The Cascata del Catino is easily accessible via the "Old Road to Pianazzo," a pedestrian and cycling path from Scalcoggia to Pianazzo. This 1.3 km walk with a 150-meter descent is suitable for strollers and is illuminated at night. The Roffla Gorge, with its historical significance and accessible path, also offers an easy visit.
Are there any family-friendly waterfall hikes around Madesimo?
Yes, the "Old Road to Pianazzo" leading to the Cascata del Catino is an easy, pedestrian-friendly path suitable for families with strollers. Additionally, the View of Acquafraggia Waterfalls is noted as family-friendly, offering impressive views of the double-jump falls.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Madesimo?
Early summer is often cited as the best time to visit the Cascata di Pianazzo, when its flow is typically more robust. Generally, spring and early summer offer lush greenery and fuller cascades due to snowmelt, while autumn provides beautiful foliage.
Can I see any waterfalls in Madesimo during winter?
Yes, the Cascata del Groppera, located in the center of Madesimo, is particularly notable in winter for its 50-meter frozen drop, making it a popular spot for ice climbing. It's just a few minutes' walk from the cable car station.
Are there any historical sites or unique natural formations near the waterfalls?
The Roffla Gorge is a significant historical site, painstakingly rebuilt in the early 20th century to be accessible to tourists. It also features an inn with a museum. The Cascata del Catino gets its name from a unique rock formation shaped like a basin by water erosion.
What kind of hiking trails are available to reach the waterfalls?
For the Cascata del Catino and Cascata di Pianazzo, you can use the "Old Road to Pianazzo," an easy pedestrian and cycling route. For the Cascata di Valle Febbraro, a beautiful mountain hike starts from the Isola hamlet, following the C29 trail through meadows and along a dirt road. Families can opt for a shorter hike by using a paved consortium road to Ca' Raseri.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near the waterfalls?
The Spluga Falls feature small pools that gather between the rocks, offering a pleasant spot for a break. While not explicitly designated for wild swimming, the tips suggest it's a place where you can take a nice break and cool off.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in Madesimo?
Beyond visiting the waterfalls, the Madesimo area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes like the "Splügen - Splügen Gravel Bike loop" or "Lake Montespluga – Montespluga loop from Cimaganda." For road cycling, options include the "Via Mala Gorge near Thusis – Lake Mezzola loop." Find more details on these activities in our guides for Gravel biking around Madesimo, Road Cycling Routes around Madesimo, and Cycling around Madesimo.
Where can I get the best panoramic views of the Cascata di Pianazzo?
While there's a viewpoint at the top of the Cascata di Pianazzo in the hamlet of Pianazzo, for a more panoramic view of its full glory, you can drive north to Isola, then south along the Liro river; the waterfall will be visible on your left after the second tunnel. Another great vantage point is from a high viewpoint after taking a right turn towards Starleggia.
Are there any hidden gem waterfalls in the Madesimo region?
The Waterfall near Vho is described as somewhat hidden, collecting water in a stone basin almost like a small mountain lake. It's a short distance from the “Via Spluga” hiking trail and offers a refreshing experience.
What makes the Acquafraggia Waterfalls unique?
The Acquafraggia Waterfalls, located in Borgonuovo, are known for their impressive double jump. The name "Acqua Fraggia" comes from "Fracta Water," referring to a stream constantly interrupted by waterfalls, forming a series of cascades as it descends from Pizzo di Lago.
Most popular routes around Madesimo
Most popular attractions around Madesimo
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Madesimo:
