waterfall of Acquacheta

Cascata dell'Acquacheta is one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the Apennines, situated on the border between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, near the towns of Marradi and San Benedetto in Alpe.

What makes this place special?

The Acquacheta drops around 70 metres into a mountain gorge within the Casentinesi Forests, Monte Falterona and Campigna National Park. The river of the same name gathers water from the surrounding peaks and flows through the Piana dei Mulini before making its spectacular plunge. The roar of the waterfall carries far through the valley — a quality that caught the attention of Dante Alighieri himself.

In Canto XVI of the Inferno, Dante compared the thundering sound of the Acquacheta to the roar of the infernal river Phlegethon at the boundary of the seventh circle of Hell. That literary reference turned this natural site into a landmark on Italy's cultural map — a place where wilderness and poetry converge. The waterfall is also known as Cascata di San Benedetto.

How do you get there?

The most-used starting point is the village of San Benedetto in Alpe in Emilia-Romagna. Trail no. 407 follows the Acquacheta stream uphill from the village directly to the waterfall. The one-way distance is roughly 6 kilometres, and the walk takes between two and three hours at a moderate pace. The path is mountain terrain but presents no serious technical difficulty — suitable for anyone in reasonable shape wearing proper hiking footwear.

San Benedetto in Alpe is reachable by car from Forlì (approximately 45 km) or from Faenza. The Tuscan town of Marradi on the other side of the ridge is another good base for exploring the area.

What will you see along the way?

The trail winds through dense deciduous forest that provides shade in summer and vivid colour in autumn. Along the route you pass the remains of old water mills — the origin of the name Piana dei Mulini. The basin at the foot of the waterfall is striking: white water drops in a near-vertical sheet while the sound echoes off the canyon walls. The surrounding slopes support silver firs and beeches typical of the national park's protected reserves.

The route also forms part of the longer Via di Dante (Dante's Way), a signed long-distance trail connecting Florence to Ravenna along the poet's historical journey.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and early summer — March through June — offer the most rewarding conditions. Snowmelt keeps the river full and the waterfall at its most powerful. Summer is pleasant, though the flow may decrease in dry years. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter visits carry the risk of icy paths, particularly at higher elevations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee? The trail is free to use. The Casentinesi Forests National Park does not charge admission for trail 407 to the waterfall.

How long does the excursion take? The round trip takes four to six hours depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls. Starting in the morning is advisable.

Can you reach the waterfall without a car? Public transport to San Benedetto in Alpe is limited — seasonal buses run from Forlì but infrequently. A car or organised tour is the most practical option for most visitors.

Is there anything else to do nearby? San Benedetto in Alpe has a handful of restaurants where you can eat after the hike. The broader Via di Dante passes through several other scenic viewpoints across the Apennine ridge, making it worthwhile to explore beyond the waterfall itself.