An enchanting route along three waterfalls
The Cascate di Sarnano is a collection of three stunning waterfalls, all found along the scenic route Via delle Cascate Perdute. This easy circular walk of about 6 km takes you past lush nature and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the view along the way. The route is easy to walk with little difference in altitude (80 metres on average), although there is one short steep section that provides some extra challenge.
We started our adventure by parking the car at Largo Bozzoni in Sarnano, where a charging station for electric cars is also available. From here, you can start the route at Piazza Perfetti, the panoramic terrace of Sarnano's historic centre. Within a 15-minute walk you will reach the first waterfall: Antico Molino. Walk from the piazza to Via Buozzi across Largo Decio Filipponi. When you reach the walls of the historic centre, take descent on your right, which leads to the Palasport sports facilities. Leave these on your left and go down Via del Colle towards the Piano district. On your right, you will see the school Alberico Gentili. Walk along the paved road until you see on the right the indications for the path that leads you to the riverbed. Finally off the paved road on to the falls. Along the way, you come across the ruins of the old water mill, half hidden in the bushes. A wooden footbridge takes you to the first waterfall.
Andiamo!
After the Antico Molino waterfall, the tour continues to the Lu Vagnatò waterfall, which you reach in about half an hour. The name of this waterfall comes from the local dialect and refers to a place where there used to be a natural swimming pool, loved by young swimmers from Sarnano. For this, return to the sports facilities on the asphalt road. At the junction with Strada Provinciale 78 Picena, turn left. Here you need to pay attention to traffic for a while. Pass the Sarnano slaughterhouse and cross carefully at the pink house just before the bridge. Take the dirt road that runs alongside the house. After a few metres, turn left at the crossroads. On the left, you will see a small church (now private) dedicated to Our Lady of Loreto. You are in fact on a stretch of road that belongs to both the Via Franciscana delle Marche and the Via Lauretana, two beautiful pilgrimage routes in Le Marche. Cross the small bridge you see in front of you and take the path on the right to the Lu Vagnatò waterfall.
At the bottom of the path, you will discover an ancient wash basin and on the right, a descending path that leads you to the impressive waterfall. The babbling water and green oasis around it make it a magical place to unwind.
For the last stop, the Cascatelle dei Romani, return to the wash and follow a narrow path up through the trees. You pass the last houses of the hamlet of Morelli and continue walking according to the clear signposts. After about half an hour of walking, you come face to face with the third and final waterfall of the route. The sight of the crashing water surrounded by lush nature is magnificent.
Relaxation and a refreshing swim
The waterfalls are undoubtedly the highlight of this tour. The crystal-clear water, serene surroundings and soothing sound of gurgling water make for an idyllic experience. Don't forget to bring your swimwear, as you can take a refreshing dip at several spots! There are also beautiful picnic spots, so bringing a snack and a drink is definitely a good idea.
Want to be well prepared on your way? Consult a local walking map in advance and follow the signposts so you don't get lost. Sturdy walking shoes are a must, because although the route is doable, you will walk mostly on unpaved paths.
Closing with a delicious lunch
After this beautiful hike, we were in the mood for a nice lunch. We chose restaurant Le Clarisse in Sarnano, where we feasted on a delicious meal. First a large bottle of water (which was needed after all that walking), followed by a good glass of wine and an excellent pecorino cheese with truffle - highly recommended! The picture shows the dish uovo al Tegamino con tartufo, also delicious.
Feeling satisfied, we returned home, where a final refreshing splash in the pool completed this perfect day.
