Lavane waterfall

Lavane waterfall is a cascade tucked into the Apennine forests within the municipality of San Benedetto in Alpe, in the province of Forlì-Cesena, Emilia-Romagna. It lies inside the Casentinesi Forests, Monte Falterona and Campigna National Park, which straddles the border between Romagna and Tuscany.

What will you see?

The Lavane cascade drops into a deep natural hollow, forming a vivid green pool enclosed by rock and forest vegetation. On warm days the pool invites swimmers — one of the main reasons visitors make the trip from spring through early autumn. The surrounding slopes are covered by the deciduous woodland typical of the Apennines, and the quiet of the location makes the visit feel far removed from busy tourist circuits.

Close by, in the same valley, stands the more famous Acquacheta waterfall, which plunges more than 70 metres and was immortalised by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy. That literary connection gives the whole area a cultural depth beyond its natural beauty. Lavane sees far fewer visitors than its neighbour, which makes it a good choice for anyone looking for solitude in the hills.

How to get there?

The starting point is San Benedetto in Alpe, a small village reachable by car from Forlì along the SS67 road. Free parking is available by the river in the centre of the village. The trail to Lavane sets off from Piazza XXV Aprile and runs through forest. Allow roughly one and a half hours each way; the full round trip takes about three hours. The path is well marked and stays within the national park, but sturdy footwear is essential — especially after rain, when the forest tracks can be slippery.

From the waterfall it is possible to extend the walk up to a nearby plateau, where the ruins of a hermitage once belonging to the Abbey of San Benedetto in Alpe still stand.

When to visit?

March to May is the prime window, when snowmelt and spring rain keep the falls running strong and the forest is at its greenest. Early autumn, through to the end of October, is the second best period — the natural pool is still pleasant for a dip and the woodland colours are at their finest. July and August bring more foot traffic on the trail and lower water levels. In winter, snow and ice can make parts of the path difficult to pass.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in the pool at Lavane waterfall? Yes, the natural hollow at the base of the cascade is suitable for swimming on warm days. The water stays cold even in summer, fed as it is by mountain streams.

How difficult is the hike to Lavane waterfall? The route is moderately easy — neither the distance nor the elevation gain demands advanced fitness, but proper hiking shoes are strongly recommended, particularly after rainfall.

Is there an entrance fee for the trail or the national park? Access to the national park and the trail is free of charge. Parking in San Benedetto in Alpe is also free.

Can Lavane waterfall be combined with a visit to the Acquacheta falls? Yes, both waterfalls share the same valley and can be visited on a single, longer outing. Setting aside a full day gives enough time to explore both sites comfortably.