Best waterfalls around Valbondione are situated in a mountainous region within the Orobic Alps, characterized by alpine forests and significant geological features. The area is home to the Serio Falls, considered among the tallest waterfalls in Italy, with a total drop of 315 meters. These waterfalls are uniquely regulated by the Barbellino dam, opening on specific dates to create a powerful surge of water. Valbondione offers a natural landscape with diverse hiking opportunities to experience these natural monuments.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Valbondione.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Valbondione
Antonio Curò nature route – two days in the Bergmanesque Alps
Eastern Orobie Path – a loop through Italy’s Orobie Mountains
A stone's throw from Presolana – trekking in Italy’s Val Seriana
Walking on water – lakes, rivers and waterfalls in the Bergamo valleys
Hiking around Valbondione
MTB Trails around Valbondione
Road Cycling Routes around Valbondione
Cycling around Valbondione
Running Trails around Valbondione

Mountain Hikes around Valbondione
Beautiful lake adjacent to the Curò refuge. The lake is famous for the famous "sword in the stone." Who knows if anyone will be able to extract it? 🤗
0
0
Today Sanguigno Stream Waterfalls Show more The Sanguigno Stream waterfalls are one of the most evocative natural spectacles in the Sanguigno Valley, above Valgoglio (BG). A sequence of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools that line the trail surrounded by greenery, making the valley a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. 🌊 Main features Unique environment: The Sanguigno Valley is considered the oasis with the highest biodiversity in the Orobie Bergamasche Park. Waterfalls and natural pools: The stream cascades, forming transparent pools of green and blue. Wild atmosphere: The water tumbles over waterfalls, rests in crystal-clear lakes, and flows through peat bogs and shady woods. Accessibility: The starting point is the Aviasco power plant (965 m), accessible by car from Valgoglio. From there, the trail follows the stream and its waterfalls to the Gianpace Refuge. 🚶♂️ Hiking itinerary Start: Valgoglio (929 m), with parking at the Aviasco power plant (ticket required). Route: The trail follows the Sanguigno stream, passing through woods and clearings, with constant glimpses of the waterfalls. Intermediate stop: Rifugio Gianpace (1331 m), an excellent refreshment point and observation point for the waterfalls. Duration: Approximately 2 hours' walk to the refuge, with moderate elevation gain.
0
0
The waterfalls of the Sanguigno River are one of the most evocative natural spectacles in the Sanguigno Valley, above Valgoglio (BG). A sequence of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools line the trail, immersed in greenery, making the valley a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. 🌊 Main features Unique environment: The Sanguigno Valley is considered the oasis with the highest biodiversity in the Orobie Bergamasche Park. Waterfalls and natural pools: The stream cascades, forming transparent pools of green and blue. Wild atmosphere: The water tumbles over waterfalls, rests in crystal-clear lakes, and flows through peat bogs and shady woods. Accessibility: The starting point is the Aviasco power plant (965 m), accessible by car from Valgoglio. From there, the trail follows the stream and its waterfalls to the Gianpace Refuge. 🚶♂️ Hiking itinerary Start: Valgoglio (929 m), with parking at the Aviasco power plant (ticket required). Route: The trail follows the Sanguigno stream, passing through woods and clearings, with constant glimpses of the waterfalls. Intermediate stop: Rifugio Gianpace (1331 m), an excellent refreshment point and observation point for the waterfalls. Duration: Approximately 2 hours' walk to the refuge, with moderate elevation gain.
0
0
Yes, but from here you can't see Barbellino.
1
0
A must-see for the classic souvenir hike around Lake Barbellino. The lovely little church next door offers a stunning view of the lake.
0
0
A suggestive view of the Barbellino basin, the famous sword is a popular destination for the characteristic souvenir photo
0
0
The Serio Falls are unique because their flow is regulated by the Barbellino dam. They are only opened on specific dates throughout the year, typically five times between June and October, including one night-time opening. This creates a spectacular and powerful surge of water, making each viewing a special event. You can check the official opening dates at valseriana.eu.
The best time to visit the Serio Falls is on one of the specific dates when the Barbellino dam is opened. These dates are usually scheduled between June and October, and include a unique night-time opening. Visiting on these days allows you to witness the falls in their full, powerful glory. Even on non-opening days, the surrounding Orobic Alps offer beautiful scenery for hiking.
Yes, several waterfalls in the Valbondione area are suitable for families. The Vò Waterfall is easily accessible and features a well-equipped picnic area nearby. The Giant's Kettles of Valzurio also offer a family-friendly experience with crystal-clear pools and a picnic area. For hiking, the CAI 305 trail from Valbondione towards Rifugio Curò is a comfortable mule track suitable for families, offering views of the Serio Falls.
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the region boasts diverse natural features. You can find dense alpine forests, the stunning peaks of the Orobic Alps, and the Serio River. The Sanguigno Stream Waterfalls, for example, are known for their Caribbean-colored pools. The Giant's Kettles of Valzurio feature unique cylindrical basins carved by water.
The Sanguigno Stream Waterfalls are a hidden treasure with multiple Caribbean-colored pools where you can cool off or refresh your feet. While not explicitly designated for wild swimming, these natural pools offer spots to enjoy the water along the stream's path.
The waterfalls are often integrated into hiking trails. For the Serio Falls, trails like the CAI 305 from Valbondione lead to excellent viewing points. The Sambuzza Valley Waterfall is encountered along the route from Carona to the Fratelli Calvi and Fratelli Longo refuges. For more extensive hiking, explore the Mountain Hikes around Valbondione guide.
While specific dog policies for each trail may vary, many outdoor areas in the Orobic Alps are generally dog-friendly, especially on leash. Trails leading to waterfalls like the Serio Falls are popular hiking routes, and dogs are often seen accompanying hikers. Always ensure your dog is under control and respect local signage.
Valbondione is reachable by public transport, with bus services available from Bergamo. Once in Valbondione, many waterfall access points, such as the starting point for the Serio Falls, are accessible on foot from the village center.
Yes, the Valbondione area offers a range of outdoor activities. Besides hiking to waterfalls, you can explore numerous mountain hikes, such as the difficult 'Rifugio Mario Merelli al Coca – Lake Coca loop from Valbondione' found in the Mountain Hikes around Valbondione guide. There are also dedicated routes for Road Cycling and MTB Trails in the region.
The difficulty varies depending on the specific waterfall and trail. Many trails, like those to the Serio Falls, are considered intermediate, offering a comfortable yet rewarding experience. Some highlights, such as the Sambuzza Valley Waterfall, can be part of more challenging routes to mountain refuges. Always check the specific trail details before heading out.
The Sanguigno Stream Waterfalls are considered a hidden treasure. This series of waterfalls and Caribbean-colored pools along the Val Sanguigno offers multiple spots to cool off or rest, providing a more secluded experience away from the most popular sites.
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular natural phenomenon of the Serio Falls when the dam is opened, noting its sheer size and power. The unique viewing experience due to the limited opening dates is also highly valued. Beyond Serio, the refreshing qualities of the Sambuzza Valley Waterfall in summer and its frozen spectacle in winter are often highlighted, as are the beautiful pools of the Sanguigno Stream Waterfalls.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Valbondione: