The Varone Waterfall (Italian Cascata del Varone) lies north of Riva del Garda. The water drops through a narrow, steep limestone gorge that has been carved out over thousands of years. Metal walkways and rock passages bring you close to the fall. The site is a privately run attraction; we are independent and do not operate it.
Our top pick: Historic sailing boat from Malcesine
Getting there
- By car: a few minutes from Riva, with a car park at the entrance.
- By bike: easy to ride from the lakeshore at Riva, with some climbing on the last kilometres.
- By bus: services from Riva stop nearby. Check the timetable and stop locally.
Prices and opening hours change with the season, and the exact details are on the operator’s website. The site is not open all year.
What to expect
In the lower part, paths lead through rock passages where the air is clearly cooler. Further up you stand on walkways right above the roaring water. Allow about an hour if you take photos without rushing. The route has steps, so it is difficult with a pushchair or wheelchair.
Weather and timing: the gorge is cool and wet even in August, so a light jacket is worth packing. It is quietest in the morning and in the shoulder seasons. Our page on the weather at Lake Garda helps with planning.
Combine the visit
Riva del Garda sits at the northern end of the lake, with a promenade and old town. The cable car up Monte Baldo from Malcesine, a boat trip or a hike (more on hiking at Lake Garda) turns it into a full day. For a hotel on the north shore, read our overview of Riva del Garda.
We found no GetYourGuide offer for the Varone Waterfall itself. These excursions from the region complete the day:
Historic sailing boat from Malcesine
Panoramic cruise on the north shore to a waterfall. 4.3/5 from over 350 reviews.
Madonna della Corona pilgrimage church
The church set into the cliff face above the Adige valley. 5.0/5 from almost 200 reviews.
Dolomites day tour from Lake Garda
Mountain passes and lakes of the Dolomites in one day. 4.7/5 from almost 800 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Check hotel prices in Riva del Garda
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Varone Waterfall?
In the Varone district north of Riva del Garda in Trentino. It is a few minutes by car from Riva, a bit longer on foot or by bike.
How long does a visit take?
Plan on about an hour. A path leads through rock passages into the gorge, and a viewpoint shows the fall from below.
Is it worth going in the rain?
Yes, the gorge is damp and cool anyway, and after rain the waterfall often carries more water. Non-slip shoes and a jacket are still sensible.
Some links are affiliate links: if you book through them we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It funds the research behind this site.
