Venus Hair Waterfalls

Venus Hair Waterfalls (Cascate Capelli di Venere) sit tucked into the hills about one kilometre from the centre of Casaletto Spartano, a small village in the Province of Salerno, Campania. The site belongs to the Capello Oasis and falls within the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park — one of the largest protected areas in Italy.

How to Get There

Casaletto Spartano lies in the southern part of the Cilento region, near the Gulf of Policastro. From the village centre the waterfalls are a short walk or drive of about one kilometre. Parking is available close to the oasis entrance, and the route is signposted.

What You Will See

The waterfalls are fed by the Bussentino, a tributary of the Bussento river. The water tumbles down vertical rock faces densely colonised by Adiantum capillus-veneris — a delicate maidenhair fern known in Italian as capelvenere. The plant clings directly to the wet stone, forming a hanging green curtain that merges with the falling water. The result is the visual effect that gave the falls their poetic name: cascades that look like loose strands of hair.

The Capello Oasis offers more than just the waterfalls. Walking trails cross the grounds, and the complex includes a picnic area with bathroom facilities and a play space for children, making it a solid destination for a half-day family excursion.

When to Visit

Spring and early summer are the best months: the Bussentino runs high, the ferns are at their most vivid, and the air remains cool under the tree canopy. July and August bring the most visitors, so arriving early in the morning or on a weekday helps avoid the crowds. Autumn is quieter, though the intense green colour fades as temperatures drop.

The Legend Behind the Name

A local legend explains the origins of the name. A shepherd came across the goddess Venus sleeping and cut a lock of her hair. When she woke, her anger transformed the stolen lock into water; the growing stream engulfed the shepherd. The myth is retold at every description of the falls and reflects the area's deep connection between landscape and folklore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does entry cost? The ticket price is 3 euros per person. It covers access to the waterfalls, the oasis walking trails, a picnic area with bathrooms, and a children's play area.

Are the waterfalls inside a national park? Yes. The Cascate Capelli di Venere lie within the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park.

How far are the waterfalls from the village? Roughly one kilometre from Casaletto Spartano's centre — about a fifteen-minute walk or a short drive.

Is it suitable for families with children? Yes. The oasis has a dedicated children's area and the walking paths are manageable for families with young kids.