How to admire the Macarone della Pila waterfall? Tips, length and starting point

How to admire the Macarone della Pila waterfall? The Macarone della Pila waterfall is a scenic waterfall located on the slopes of the Maiella mountains in the valley carved out by the Avello river, near the villages of Pennapiedimonte and Palombaro, therefore within the Maiella National Park (recently a Geoparco Unesco). Here you will find a natural swimming pool with transparent water and with the bottom made of small very white pebbles and the fall of the water which becomes pouring and impetuous during the spring.

In this short guide you will know how to get to admire it, where to start from and some useful advice to better organize your visit.

Where to start from to get to the waterfall?

The easiest and shortest route starts from the Belvedere Balzolo, in the upper part of the village of Pennapiedimonte. From here, to get to the Macarone della Pila waterfall, take the path marked Murelle / Montecavallo / Selva Romana / Linaro.

How long is the route?

The route has a length of about 4 kilometers (one way) and as many to return and the journey time is about 2.30 / 3 hours in total. Along the route you will come across 3 tunnels dug into the rock and the path that leads to the waterfall is about a kilometer after the exit of the last tunnel. The path (not very well signposted) is on the left and descends the valley wall to the waterfall.

What is the difficulty level?

Even if defined as a path of tourist difficulty, we think it is useful to say in this article that there are some characteristics that deserve attention in order to better face the excursion.

• The path is not level. Indeed, up to the second tunnel (about halfway) the climb is almost continuous. therefore it is necessary to be with a minimum of training even if it is doable by everyone.
• The entire path is always uncovered, therefore subject to wind and sun.
• The bottom is brecciated and trekking shoes are strongly recommended due to the sharp rocks on the road. Trekking shoes are essential to go down to the waterfall and to admire the natural pool as it is accessed through a steep, wet and slippery rock. Here a rope hooked to the trunk of a tree will come in handy.

Some final advice

• Remember to always bring water, a hat and sunscreen during the hot seasons and clothing suitable for temperature changes and the presence of wind.
• We think it is necessary to mention here as well that the path down to the waterfall (after the third gallery) is not signposted at all, but you will notice a narrow, gravel path that bends left and descends into the trees. If you pay attention, you can already hear the sound of the waterfall from here.

We hope this little guide will help you on your excursion to the Macarone della Pila waterfall and let us know how it went in the comments.