Cascate del Pellegrino: how to get there and trails

Where the Cascate del Pellegrino are located

The waterfall is in the territory of Sarnano, at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains. It lies just beyond the eastern edge of the National Park, near Piobbico, a hamlet of Sarnano. The stream that feeds it comes down from Fonte Lardina, below the village of Sassotetto.

About five minutes away on foot are the Pozze dell'Acquasanta, formed by a tributary of the Tennacola. Farther downstream are the Cascatelle di Sarnano, linked to the two sites by a marked trail.

How to get to the Cascate del Pellegrino

By car, drive to Sarnano and continue toward the Sassotetto ski area. At the village of Margani, a junction descends toward Giampereto and the Abbey of Piobbico, an abbey. Leave the car in a pull-out next to the junction and continue on foot down the descent.

Alternatively, set out from Sarnano. It is possible to park at Largo Bozzoni and walk along the Via delle Cascate Perdute to the Cascatelle, where the trail to the Pozze and the waterfall begins.

Trails and hikes to the Cascate del Pellegrino

From the Margani junction, a sign marks the start of the trail at the first bend. The trail descends steeply with a few switchbacks and reaches the stream in about 20 minutes. From there it continues to the Pozze dell'Acquasanta. After the small bridge that crosses the stream again, the Pellegrino is about 5 more minutes away.

Starting from the Cascatelle, the route is 5.4 km with 186 m of elevation gain. The highest point is at 688 m and it takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Hiking footwear is needed. The last downhill stretch is steep, and in some places a rope helps. The return toward Margani climbs a very steep trail, while from the Cascatelle the walk back to the center of Sarnano takes about half an hour.

For a longer loop, the Pellegrino can be combined with the Via delle Cascate Perdute, which starts from Piazza Perfetti. It is also possible to walk a longer loop starting from the Church of San Rocco.

When to visit the Cascate del Pellegrino

Summer is the most popular season, because the route through the woods offers shade and cool air. Keep in mind, though, that in summer the stream of the Pozze dell'Acquasanta dries up quickly in the heat. Only a few deep hollows remain, filled with very clear water. In spring the stream is lively, with rapids and small cascades forming between one pothole and the next.

The flow at the Pozze varies through the year, so it is wise to check conditions beforehand. In rainy seasons some stretches can be muddy and slippery.

What to see near the Cascate del Pellegrino

The route to the waterfall passes the Pozze dell'Acquasanta, where erosion has created deep potholes. Farther downstream are the Cascatelle di Sarnano, the Cascata de lu Vagnatò and the Cascata dell'Antico Mulino. These three are the stops on the Via delle Cascate Perdute. The start is at Piazza Perfetti, at the foot of Sarnano's historic center. The list of waterfalls in the area is on the page waterfalls of the Sibillini Mountains in the Marche.