Where water sculpts wonder: discover the magic of the Burano Gorge in Cagli.

In the heart of the Marche region, just a few kilometers from Cagli , lies a corner of paradise still largely untouched by mass tourism and off the beaten track: the Burano Gorge . This spectacular natural canyon , carved over the centuries by the Burano River, is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience in contact with nature, far from the chaos of the Marche's more crowded seaside resorts.

The Burano Gorge—also known as the " Cagli Hot Springs "—offers a wild and surprising landscape: clear freshwater, white rock walls that narrow to form unique and evocative passages, and natural pools where you can dive and relax while sunbathing. This is the perfect place for a day of adventure, relaxation, nature, tranquility, and easy scenic walks.

In addition to the breathtaking natural setting , this gorge also has a historical and cultural charm thanks to its proximity to the Via Flaminia – it is in fact located along the route of the ancient Via Flaminia which connects Cagli and Cantiano – an ancient Roman road and to various hermitages and points of interest which tell ancient stories.

A perfect destination for families, couples, or groups of friends, the Burano Gorge is an unmissable stop for those visiting the Marche hinterland and looking for a cool alternative to the usual beaches in summer.

Where is the Burano Gorge and how to get there?

The Burano Gorge is located near Cagli, at the foot of Mount Catria , in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, along an ancient road that connects the Marche region to Umbria. Getting there is easy: just set your GPS to " Burano Gorge ." The area is well signposted, and there are several rest stops along the road, although there are no official parking lots.

Those coming from Ancona or Pesaro can take the SS73 bis towards Cagli, while from Umbria it's less than an hour from Perugia and 20 minutes from Gubbio, heading towards Fano. Once you reach the gorge, you can park your car along the main road , paying attention to traffic conditions.

Access to the gorge is via various paths that are not too long but quite steep, requiring footwear suitable for the experience and free hands, especially if carrying backpacks or various equipment.

It's advisable to arrive early in the morning , both to avoid the midday heat and to more easily find parking and a quiet spot. During the summer months and on weekends, the place can get quite crowded, so it's best to plan your visit on a weekday to fully enjoy its tranquility.

A postcard landscape: unspoiled nature between water and rock

The Burano Gorge, in the Foci district, is a deep river canyon carved out over millennia by the erosive action of the Burano River—which originates between Mount Cerrone and the Serra di Burano—on the limestone rocks. The rocky walls rise on the sides, creating a unique and distinctive landscape that constantly changes depending on the vantage point and the light of day.

Along the river's course, waterfalls and natural pools form, ideal for a dip or simply to dip your toes in the clear, cool water. The rocky bottom makes the water extraordinarily clear, with shades of emerald green and turquoise, creating photogenic views every step of the way.

Some stretches reach depths of 4-5 meters , offering the opportunity to swim amidst pristine nature. There are also shallow areas, perfect for children (under adult supervision, of course) or for those who simply want to relax among the rocks.

The surrounding area is rich in vegetation , with willows, shrubs, and trees offering natural shade, much appreciated on hot days. In the distance, the landscape is dominated by Mount Petrano , with its peak known as " La Rocchetta," and Mount Campifobio , which complete the scenery, making it perfect for those who love unspoiled and wild nature.

The area is also interesting from a geological and historical perspective. Its proximity to ancient hermitages and the remains of Roman bridges —such as the Ponte Grosso—testifies to the historical importance of the place, crossed for centuries by pilgrims and travelers.

What to do at the Burano Gorge and how to best enjoy your day

Visiting the Burano Gorge is an experience you can tailor to your interests. Those seeking relaxation can lay out a towel on the rocks and enjoy the sun in peace, while more active and adventurous spirits can swim, explore the pools, or take short hikes nearby.

Recommended activities for a day in this natural paradise are the following:

• Bathing in the natural pools: an experience not to be missed during this visit. The water is clear, fresh, and rejuvenating.
• diving from the rocks: in some areas – such as Pozze di Foci – the rocks even form perfect platforms for the bravest – but be careful of the depth,
• picnic in nature: it is advisable to bring food and water from home to spend a whole day in contact with nature,
• relax on the white pebble beaches surrounded by greenery,
• nature photography : the contrast between the colors of the rock, the vegetation and the water gives memorable shots,
• Wildlife observation : with a little patience you can spot the dipper and the spectacled salamander,
• walks and trekking in nature to discover the treasures of the area such as the Ponte Grosso ,
• no-kill fishing – brown trout can be found in the Burano River.

Before setting out to spend a day immersed in nature at the Burano Gorge, it's a good idea to pack a light backpack with everything you need for your visit and follow a few simple tips:

• wear trekking shoes and bring rock shoes: the rocky surface is slippery and uneven,
• There are no toilets available – as the Gorge is a natural area: so organize yourself in advance – for example before walking along the path,
• respect the environment by taking away all waste, do not use soaps or creams in water, do not light fires,
• Avoid peak hours : on summer days and during peak season, the area can get crowded. The best times are early morning and late afternoon.