The Paths of the Marmore Falls

In the heart of the Valnerina, a short distance from the city of Terni, is the famous Marmore Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe and an obligatory stop for anyone planning a trip to Umbria. At first sight, it appears to be a natural work of art, but in reality it conceals centuries of ingenuity and technological research. Its current appearance is in fact attributable to the numerous works carried out since Roman times to conduct the water fall from the river Velino to the Nera at pre-determined points.

It owes its name to the calcium carbonate salts present on the rocks and resembling white marble. It has a total drop of 165 metres, divided into three spectacular jumps that can be admired from two different points: the Lower Belvedere and the Upper Belvedere. Inside the park surrounding the waterfall there are also six fascinating, well-marked paths that allow the waterfalls to be observed from several perspectives. Some are short and easy, others more challenging. Let’s discover them together!

1. Ancient passage

This path, which stretches for about one kilometre with a difference in height of 150 metres, connects the Lower Belvedere to the Upper Belvedere (and vice versa), where there is the Specola, a panoramic tower built in the 18th century by Pope Pius VI, from which one can admire the rainbow of the Marmore Falls. Along the way, dotted with natural grottos, you can reach the Balcony of the Lovers, a small terrace carved into the rock overlooking the waterfall, actually below the first drop of the waterfall. High degree of difficulty.

2. Ring of the Nymph

Trail number 2 is probably the most beautiful of the 6. It extends over 300 metres with a difference in altitude of 40. The starting point is the Environmental Education Centre, located within the hiking area in the Lower Belvedere. Along the way, you cross a secondary channel of the waterfall, hidden among the rich vegetation, and can enjoy a magnificent view of the second and third falls. Low level of difficulty (suitable for children).

3. The meeting of the waters

From the area of the Environmental Education Centre also starts path number 3, which leads to an area where, due to the pressure with which the water precipitates, an aerosol is formed, creating a habitat rich in vegetation. Along the trail, one can observe canyons carved into the rock by the waters of the Nera River. The trail is 150 metres long with an altitude difference of 15. Degree of difficulty low (suitable for children).

4. The majesty

This route, also known as the Pennarossa path, extends for 500 metres with a difference in altitude of 75. It climbs Mount Pennarossa, reaching two viewpoints called Belvedere Pennarossa Inferiore and Belvedere Pennarossa Superiore, from which one can have a complete view of the three jumps. To reach the starting point, cross the ‘Valnerina’ state road at the ‘Byron’ entrance. Grade of difficulty: medium.

5. The cliff and the man

Recently constructed, path number 5 has characteristics similar to those of a public park, therefore different from a mountain path. Developing on the edge of the Marmore cliff, it offers enchanting panoramic views of the Valnerina. In addition, it allows views of the water intakes of the former power station and the artificial wells built for consolidation works. The starting point is located at Campacci di Marmore (Belvedere Superiore). Low level of difficulty (suitable for children).

6. The wise laws

This path also connects the Lower Belvedere with the Upper Belvedere (and vice versa) but is more difficult than number 1. It stretches for one kilometre with a difference in altitude of 160 metres and is uneven and steep in places. Pipelines and constructions of the hydraulic system of the old hydroelectric power stations can be seen along the way. It is recommended for experienced hikers.