Cadini del Brenton

© Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi

Nestled within the Parco nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi (Belluno Dolomites National Park) in the province of Belluno, Veneto is a unique phenomenon called the Cadini del Brenton.

The Cadini del Brenton is a series of pools created along the rocky banks. Over centuries water from the Brenton river has been cascading down along the carbonate rocks creating potholes within the rocks. Some deeper than others, but all are connected by small waterfalls as it descends to the bottom. There is a total of 15 pools, but only 11 are open to visitors. The other four are off limits due to the dangerous path that leads to them.

Although the pools look inviting especially with the turquoise colored water, they are off limits to people bathing or wading through. The beautiful views of the cascading waterfalls surrounded by nature make this worth the trip. There will be some walking involved and you will be in areas where water will make the paths a bit slippery so make sure you wear appropriate shoes.

If you visit the Cadini del Brenton, you will want to make sure you also make the trek to the Cascate della Soffia (Soffia Waterfall). This is located on the northwest side of Lago del Mis (Lake Mis). This waterfall is off the beaten path. You want to look for the Soffia Bar. There is a path behind the bar that leads to the waterfall. The walk will take you through small caves with sparkling natural pools until you reach the cave where the waterfall is located. The sound of the water can be loud and deafening. Legend says that you can see the faces of the Anguane Sirens on the walls and water.