Imagine a place where time stands still and nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes—a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. Welcome to Cavagrande del Cassibile, a place that will awaken your senses and leave you in awe. As you step into this mesmerizing landscape, prepare to be transported to a world where turquoise blue lakes meet towering cliffs.
What is Cavagrande del Cassibile?
The Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve, also known as Riserva Naturale Orientata Cavagrande del Cassibile in Italian, is a captivating natural gem nestled in southeastern Sicily, Italy. Spanning over 2,000 hectares, this expansive reserve showcases a diverse array of landscapes, from deep canyons and dramatic gorges to lush vegetation and sparkling freshwater pools.
At the heart of the reserve lies the Cassibile River, carving its way through the rugged terrain and forming a series of picturesque cascades and emerald green pools. These pools, known as “laghetti,” are a true oasis in the arid landscape, inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip in their crystal-clear waters.
It’s worth noting that embarking on a proper hike is essential to reach these picturesque lakes. We feel it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of adequate preparation, as we were surprised by the significant number of individuals attempting the hike without the necessary provisions. You’ll need to hike for at least 1h on a steep trail before reaching the lakes.
Due to the elongated and narrow structure of the reserve, access points vary depending on the specific lakes one wishes to visit. However, the most renowned and frequented section of the river can be reached through two distinct entrances located on opposite sides of the gorge. For further details regarding these entrances, check out the next chapter.
How to get there?
Cavagrande del Cassibile can be easily reached in less than an hour from nearby popular towns such as Noto and Siracusa. However, you need a private vehicle as there is no public transport serving the area of the reserve.
As mentioned before, as the river and the reserve are quite long there are several points of interests along the way. The most popular one is referred to on Google Maps as “Laghetti Cavagrande“, and here is the exact location:
There are two separate access points to Laghetti Cavagrande located on opposite sides of the canyon:
PARKING 1: Mastra Ronna Trail
This is probably the easiest and shortest trail to visit Cavagrande del Cassibile. The total elevation difference of this trail, in fact, is just 235m (771ft). However, the last part of the road leading to the parking is in really bad shape, which is the main reason why this is a lesser popular trail to reach the lakes.
PARKING 2: Scala Cruci Trail
This “Parcheggio Laghetti di Cavagrande” is a popular starting point for visiting the stunning emerald lakes. While the trail from here may be slightly longer and involve a greater elevation difference, the panoramic views it offers are simply breathtaking, and the parking lot is easy to reach.Moreover, this trail provides the best opportunity to explore the lesser-known “Laghetti di Cavagrande secondari.”
It’s worth noting that some claim this particular trail is officially closed, and it probably is, as you need to climb over a fence to access it. However, despite its status, hundreds of people venture along this route every day during the summer, attesting to its continued usage and allure.
PARKING 3: Cavagrande – Carrubella
Within the Cavagrande del Cassibile nature reserve, there is another captivating point of interest known as “Cavagrande – Carrubella”.
While we personally didn’t have the opportunity to explore this particular spot, we’ve heard rave reviews about its beauty and allure. For those interested in discovering it, below you’ll find precise locations of the designated parking lot where the hike commences.
Cavagrande del Cassibile: Hike Details
We hiked Cavagrande del Cassibile from Scala Cruci, which seemed to be the best option for us. From here you are looking at a 1.8km hike on a steep, uneven trail which leads straight down for about 300m into the Cassibile river valley. The starting point is located at an altitude of about 500m above sea level, while the pools are located at about 200m above sea level, for a total elevation difference of roughly 300m.
The road leading to the parking lot is entirely paved, and there are several signs along the way indicating “Cava Grande” making it difficult to miss. As soon as you get closer to the end of the road, you will have a bar/restaurant on your left, the trail and the valley on your right, and the parking at the end of the road.
According to our research, it appears that the parking in the area is primarily private and requires payment. However, we discovered a convenient alternative. Just outside the bar, where the hike begins, there is a spacious area where parking is allowed, and the best part is that it’s completely free of charge. Taking advantage of this option, we safely left our vehicle there before embarking on our journey.
The bar (Bar trattoria Pizzeria Cava Grande Ra Zia Gina) is open daily from 8AM to 11:30PM and it’s conveniently located. Prices are okay for a touristy location like this, and it’s a great spot to buy water or some fresh drinks before and after your hike.
Now comes the exciting part: the hike down! As mentioned earlier, it’s important to note that officially, this trail is closed for safety reasons due to damages caused by a wildfire that occurred back in 2014.
However, despite this official closure, the trail remains popular and sees daily usage by hundreds of hikers. This can probably be attributed to the relaxed attitude of Sicilian authorities and the general common behavior of visitors in the area.
The trail descends directly into the valley, featuring a combination of steps and steep sections. Certain parts of the trail are protected by a wooden fence, while others are slightly more exposed due to the wildfire damage. One of the highlights of this hike is the breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the valley, and right from the start, you can catch a glimpse of the natural pools.
After approximately 45 minutes, you’ll find yourself much closer to the lakes. At this point, you may come across a junction on the trail:
- If you opt to stay on the main trail by keeping right, you will eventually reach the renowned Laghetti di Cavagrande, the very same natural pools that caught your eye in online pictures.
- If you turn left, you’ll arrive at the “Laghetti secondari di Cavagrande,” a series of lesser-known lakes located upstream.
The downstream lakes are incredibly popular, attracting hundreds of visitors during the peak season. Surprisingly, the secondary lakes remain largely unexplored, and if you’re fortunate, you might have the entire place to yourself. It’s quite remarkable to think that even during the busiest time of the year, when we visited, there were only five people at these secondary lakes.
Laghetti di Cavagrande (Main pools of Cavagrande del Cassibile)
If you choose to keep right on the main trail, you’ll be on your way to the renowned Laghetti di Cavagrande. These lakes have earned their popularity for good reason.
Just a short 10-minute walk from this point, you’ll find yourself at the lakes. As you approach, the trail becomes less steep, allowing for a more leisurely stroll.
The initial lakes you encounter are relatively small and exude a cozy atmosphere, providing the perfect setting to unwind and bask in the Sicilian sun while enjoying the refreshing ambiance of the surroundings. As the river flows through the landscape, it forms a collection of breathtaking emerald ponds, characterized by crystal-clear water. These ponds are separated by gentle cascades and intricately carved rocks, shaped over time by the flowing water.
While the initial lakes offer a pleasant experience, even better awaits further along the trail. Once you cross the river and continue walking downhill, you’ll soon come across larger lakes, nourished by more impressive waterfalls.
The last one is the generally the busiest, but it’s also the most beautiful. Here the river creates a big pool where it’s possible to swim and have fun. It’s not rare to see people cliff jumping into the pool too.
Secondary lakes of Cavagrande del Cassibile
By turning left at the junction, you’ll find yourself on the trail leading to the lesser-known lakes of Cavagrande del Cassibile. This path is a bit more challenging to spot and navigate due to the thick vegetation that partially covers it.
We won’t sugarcoat it—the condition of this trail is even worse than the previous one. But worry not, even if you’re not an experienced hiker, it’s still manageable. Plus, the best part is that it’s just a short distance from here to the pools.
Initially, it may seem a bit daunting, but trust us, the effort is absolutely worth it. Everything becomes clear and rewarding once you reach the river.
The river offers a series of pools where you can swim, and there are even more cool spots if you walk left (or upstream). Coming from Scala Cruci’s side, it’s easier to reach the upper pools from the other side of the river, as there is a better path leading to the pools.
You only need to walk for about 10 minutes before reaching a long, narrow and deep pool with a small waterfall on top. This is also a great spot for cliff jumping, but make sure to check the depth before sending it.
Entrance Fee at Cavagrande del Cassibile
Accessing the pools and the river is free of charge.
Parking is paid if you decide to park your vehicle in one of the private parking areas near the entrance, while it’s free if you park elsewhere.
Best tips for visiting Cavagrande del Cassibile
Cavagrande del Cassibile is fairly easy to visit, however there are some things to keep in mind to have the best experience. Here are our best tips:
- Since the pools are located at the bottom of a narrow valley, the sun “rises” and “sets” at different times of the day. Usually, expect the sun to appear 2 hours after sunrise time and to set 2 hours before sunset time. Plan your visit accordingly.
- The way up is tough, especially in the heat. Try to avoid hiking up during the central hour of the day if possible, especially during the summer months.
- Make sure to wear proper shoes for the hike, possibly hiking shoes. You definitely want to avoid doing the hike in flip flops, as some people do. You’ll thank us later.
- Bring enough water for the day, and carry some snacks too. It’s good to have everything you need once you’re down there.
- To ensure a comfortable hiking experience, it’s advisable to pack a change of dry clothes before embarking on the ascent.
- Pack some sea shoes. It’s much easier to explore the pools in them.
