Salinello Natural Gorges, Waterfalls and Caves around Teramo
The Abruzzo region reveals unique characteristics of the abundance of diverse natural landscapes, which are located on the coast, in the hills, and in the mountains.
Thanks to this feature, nature lovers can easily reach the picturesque sites in the interior of the region during their relaxing beach vacation. The following blog will outline some of the natural highlights of this region. Remember, if you are traveling in the Abruzzi, we offer a diverse and exciting selection of Day Tours in Abruzzo and Custom Abruzzo Tours.
For example, for those who plan to spend their holidays on the Teramo coast, the Salinello Gorges are an excellent opportunity to spend a day immersed in nature, witnessing a spectacle of rare beauty. These deep gorges, situated between the Twin Mountains and created by the flow of the river Salinello, offer striking views and fascinating itineraries for excursions.
The canyon has streams, waterfalls, lakes, and springs, as well as numerous striking karst caves formed thousands of years ago, often historical evidence of a hermit’s life. Certainly, we must mention the Hermitage of St. Angelo in Volturino, one of the most important Salinello monasteries. In this great and ancient prehistoric “cave monastery”, we can still see the signs of frescoes, flooring and also the painted plaster. The Sant’Angelo Cave is also of great beauty, called the Hermitage of San Michele, the Hermitage of San Marco, and the Hermitage of Santa Maria Scalena, just to name a few.
Going down the path, you will find a sign for the Salinello Waterfall.
In the local dialect called “Lu Caccheme” (il caccamo) is also spectacular: a rushing waterfall starting from a height of 35 meters down into 3 (hidden) pools.
The waterfall doesn’t always have water running through it, and in summer, people might be there taking some sunshine or having a swim (although this is forbidden by law).
Getting to the waterfall can be quite challenging, as the path is very steep and in poor condition. I strongly advise wearing hiking boots.
You can choose between several tours and excursions in this area. They are divided according to the level of difficulty. Both experienced hikers looking for challenging and unusual trails and those who simply want to spend a day in contact with nature taking a splendid walk will be able to observe some of the most fascinating points of the Reserve. Along the river, you can find a natural habitat to practice rock climbing. Some of my friends, who do practice this sport here, told me the level can get quite high in some parts.
The Salinello Gorges are, therefore, an opportunity to visit places filled with history and admire the spectacle offered by nature, almost untouched. Nearby are also historical villages and towns, such as Civitella del Tronto, rich in tradition and history, where you can crown your perfect day with discovering the peculiarities of traditional Abruzzo cuisine. If you’d like to participate in a guided experience exploring the culinary culture of Abruzzo, browse our Abruzzo Day Tours; we have experiences ideal for any foodie, from a cheesemaking class to truffle hunting adventure.
Salinello Gorgers, River & Waterfall Video
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How to get to Salinello Natural Gorges?
Follow the instructions on the map. With the car, you can arrive until the parking slot. The road is good enough to arrive there with any type of car. Please, don’t worry if the road does not seem in very good condition.
From the parking slot, walk 5 min and you will reach the important caves, dating back from the neolithic and used until recent age. Walk 10 more minutes going down a natural staircase and at the bottom, turn left to go to the highest waterfall ‘Lu Cacchèma’.
Civitella del Tronto, a town you should not miss nearby the Gorges
This town is one of the most beautiful hamlets in Italy. Civitella del Tronto secretly holds the narrowest street of Italy and its fortress is also famous. It was built by the Spanish and now holding the primate to be the second-largest fortress in Europe.
For the other recommendation, please follow the blog post we have written about the nearby Necropolis of Campovalano.
With Amore From
Marino Cardelli