Umbria's Fluviale del Nera National Park

When the Romans altered the course of the river Velino 2,500 years ago creating the Marmore Waterfalls I do not suppose their idea was to make a natural, water world, entertainment park but that is exactly what they set in motion. While Umbria is without a coastline that is not to say you can’t have lots of water fun.

The Parco Fluviale del Nera stretches from Terni in the south, to high in the hills of Mount Sibilini following the meandering course of the River Nera.

The area is dotted with gorges, bridges, mills, disused abbeys and castles and is a location of outstanding beauty to enchant those who love playing outside. As well as the spectacle of the 451’ cascading waterfall, there is also the tranquil beauty of Lake Piediluco and the mountaineering challenges of Montefranco.

The Marmore Falls
You can park at either the upper or lower sites and walk the course of the falls with the thunderous roar of the waters never far away. The walk is a challenging 2 km climb with plenty of rest points and coffee bars at either end. The shaded green canopy of the surrounding woodlands provide cover during the summer but avoid the midday sun as even here it is a warm walk. It is also advisable to check the flow times for the falls as they power the nearby hydroelectric powerstation.

Mountaineering in Montefranco
High in the valley is the precariously perched village of Montefranco. This mountainous location has become magnet for climbing enthusiasts from all over Europe. There are a number of climbing schools based in the area and many of the cliff faces range from novice to the more challenging expert routes.

White Water Rapids
If you fancy white water rafting or a gentle canoe trip along the more tame stretches of the Nera then the you can find training, equipment, inflatable rafts and instructors in the park. Bounce your way down some of the fastest flowing sections of the river below the waterfall and experience a thoroughly exhilarating ride.

Lake Piediluco
The peaceful spring waters of the lake nestle neatly amongst the hills of Valnerina on the highlands above Marmore. It is Umbria’s second largest lake after Lake Trasimeno, with a depth of 60’ it is easily navigable by the pleasure boats that slowly drift across the surface. In appearance it resembles an Alpine lake with forested countryside all around and small distant hilltop villages. The pretty little village of Piediluco on the shore has its own beach with deckchairs, pedaloes and a pier from which you can take boat trips. If you prefer there are also yachts, canoes and boats you can hire for water-skiing or fishing trips. The lake is also famous for its 2-second echo.

Hiking around the Park
The park has an excellently series of trails and pathways all clearly marked with information points explaining the sights, difficulty of the walks and what you will see on the way.