Cascata delle Comelle, Orrido delle Comelle e Pian delle Comelle (Dolomiti)

Waterfalls, Gorge and Pian delle Comelle

Valle di Gares (Canale d’Agordo)

UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites

In our list of natural attractions in the Agordino, we certainly cannot leave out the two stunning Comelle Waterfalls, the impressive gorge of the Orrido delle Comelle, and the spectacular Pian delle Comelle, three truly evocative places that are quite easily reachable from the valley floor of the Valle di Gares, in the Agordino municipality of Canale d’Agordo in Val Biois, Agordino (Province of Belluno, Veneto Region).

Cascata delle Comelle in Valle di Gares, UNESCO Dolomites — Comelle Waterfall (lower waterfall)

These splendid natural attractions of the Heart of the Dolomites are set against the backdrop of the Pale di San Martino, the largest of the mountain groups of the Pale Mountains. Regarding the UNESCO classification, the Comelle area falls within the 3rd official system recognized and protected by the UNESCO Dolomites Foundation, namely the Pale di San Martino – San Lucano – Vette Feltrine – Belluno Dolomites system.

A ten-minute walk from Pian delle Giare brings you to the first Comelle Waterfall, the lower one; families with small children can also easily reach this point, and the waterfall is a sight that will certainly be appreciated by everyone. Continuing along CAI Trail 704 with a slight elevation gain, you will also reach the even more spectacular upper Comelle Waterfall. The beauty of the two waterfalls and the ease of approach make them a must-see for visitors to the Agordino territory, Heart of the Dolomites.

Cascata delle Comelle a Gares, Canale d'Agordo, Agordino Dolomiti UNESCO — Comelle Waterfall (Upper Waterfall) in Gares

Above the upper Comelle waterfall begins the famous Orrido delle Comelle, a spectacular natural canyon connecting the wonderful Valle di Gares to Pian delle Comelle via CAI Trail 704. This is a trail for experts, equipped in some sections with a metal cable and small ladders.

Positioned above the upper Comelle waterfall, the Orrido delle Comelle is a very suggestive dolomitic gorge offering deeply rewarding views for hiking enthusiasts in the UNESCO Dolomites. Crossing the Orrido delle Comelle along trail 704 requires good physical fitness: you proceed almost constantly by walking on the irregular rocks of the gorge, and there are several sections equipped with a metal cable and ladders, so bringing pets or small children is discouraged.

Cascata delle Comelle Dolomiti — Upper Comelle Waterfall and De Dea Abyss

Cascate delle Comelle in Valle di Gares Canale d'Agordo Val Biois Dolomiti — Comelle Waterfall (lower)

After walking all the way through the Orrido delle Comelle gorge, you arrive at the spectacular Pian delle Comelle, a wide glacial valley with a truly unique and striking panorama.

Pian delle Comelle in Valle di Gares, UNESCO Dolomites — Pian delle Comelle

Both the Orrido and Pian delle Comelle are stages of the famous hiking route known as the Viaz del Bus, perhaps one of the most popular in the Valle di Gares. If you are staying in the stunning Val Biois and are looking for a great hike with scenic views, we can only recommend visiting Orrido and Pian delle Comelle, and if you are experienced hikers, continuing along the Viaz del Bus (we dedicated this itinerary to the Viaz del Bus – click here). Of course, remember that if you are unsure of your abilities or not well-acquainted with the hiking area, the Alpine Guides active in the Agordino can accompany you on this excursion, ensuring maximum safety at all times—especially in difficult sections—so you can fully enjoy one of the most fascinating panoramas of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites.

Viaz del Bus Pian de le Comelle — The Viaz del Bus arch

The proximity of the Ristorante Capanna Cima Comelle ensures great convenience for families and hikers staying in the Valle di Gares. The valley floor area is also equipped with easy walking paths, a horse riding stable, several parking lots and picnic areas (including indoor ones), and the Valle di Gares Biotope. Plenty of things to do and see for visitors to the valley.

Comelle Dolomites — Rifugio Capanna Cima Comelle

For a few years now, the “Abisso De Dea” sport climbing crag has been open and available to enthusiasts. This is a climbing gym located close to the walls of the abyss of the same name flanking the upper Comelle waterfall; the crag is equipped with several routes created and set up by the Dolomiti Sport Republik Association (we dedicated this article to the inauguration of the crag).

📍 ATTRACTION FACT SHEET

Area: Valle di Gares (Municipality of Canale d’Agordo, Val Biois)
Altitude: ~1,450 – 1,750 m a.s.l.
Difficulty: Easy (Lower and Upper Waterfall) | Medium/Experts (Gorge and Pian delle Comelle; technical trail requiring experience, caution, and sure-footedness, section equipped with metal cables and ladders)
Main Access: From Pian de le Giare along CAI Trail 704

Information:

Pro Loco Canale d’Agordo
Tel. +39 0437 1948030
E-mail: info@prolococanale.it