The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer breathtaking landscapes with jagged peaks, deep valleys, and vertical cliffs.

However, unlike other Alpine regions, they are not known for an abundance of waterfalls. The karstic nature of the terrain causes water to quickly drain underground, limiting the presence of surface watercourses.

Despite this, there are some remarkable exceptions, including the Fanes Waterfalls, located near Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Ampezzo Dolomites. These waterfalls are among the most impressive natural sights in the area, set in a stunning landscape of conifer forests and rocky cliffs.

A Fascinating Natural Phenomenon

The Fanes Waterfalls are formed by the Rio Fanes stream, which flows rapidly through rock formations shaped over millennia. During the snowmelt season or after heavy rains, the water volume increases significantly, enhancing the dramatic effect of the cascade. The flow changes with the seasons, making each visit a unique experience.

The waterfalls are divided into two main drops. To view them in their entirety, one must follow a via ferrata—a secured climbing path that allows safe access to the most spectacular vantage points, including sections that pass over the edge of the canyon carved by the stream.

Accessibility and Nature Trails

For those looking for an easier hike, there are less demanding yet equally scenic alternatives. One of the most popular trails starts at the Sant’Uberto Bridge, located along the road connecting Cortina d’Ampezzo with Fiames. From here, a well-marked path leads to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfalls, offering a partial but still impressive view of the cascade and the canyon below.

Another option is the canyon and waterfall trail, which runs alongside the Rio Fanes through woodlands and gorges in a pristine natural setting. The sound of rushing water, the scent of pine resin, and the forest’s cool shade create a deeply immersive and refreshing experience for hikers.

A Unique Geological and Natural Environment

The Fanes Waterfalls are part of a complex geological setting, characterized by dolomite and stratified limestone rock typical of the region. The surrounding vegetation mainly consists of red spruce, larch, and stone pine, home to a rich alpine fauna that includes chamois, marmots, and various bird species.

This entire area is part of the Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park, a protected zone that preserves an alpine ecosystem of high ecological and scenic value. The waterfalls, nestled in a wild and minimally developed landscape, are one of the park’s most enchanting and lesser-known features.

A Lesser-Known Side of the Dolomites

The Fanes Waterfalls offer a unique opportunity to discover a lesser-known aspect of the Dolomites. Far from the most frequented tourist routes, these waterfalls embody the charm of unspoiled nature, the power of water and stone, and a delicate balance between movement and stillness. Visiting them means coming into contact with the most authentic soul of the Dolomites, where every detail tells a story shaped by thousands of years of geological and natural history.