Going to a spa - it is something we love to do, but it is often very expensive. Not in Italy! Italy has six hot springs. They are natural pools with a steam effect. Ready for a dip in the hot fumes?
1. Bagno Vignoni
Bagno Vignoni, in the county of Siena, it’s a small but very special village, because it has a huge pond of thermal water standing in its centre. The swimming area is not wide, but considering that the flow of tourists is light, the quality of the bath is not affected. There aren’t any services in the area, for a very natural experience. Here you can take advantage of sulphurous volcanic springs from sources around 50 degrees that reaches the basin of the pool through natural channels and waterfalls.
2. Petriolo, Tuscany
Another source in Tuscany is in Petriolo, near Grosseto. The waters are rich in minerals and the strong presence of sulfur produces a more pronounced odour which is not always pleasant. You can take a swim in the warm waters that flow to the source at 43 degrees. The baths of Petriolo are composed of multiple layers of basins bounded by stones and rocks, all surrounded by green woods of oak and chestnut trees, ideal to regenerate body and soul. Nearby there are facilities such as bed & breakfasts, cottages and inns features.
3. Baths of San Sisto, Lazio
The Baths of San Sisto are located in the county of Viterbo, on the slopes of the Monti Cimini, and are also known as masses or puddles. This is an area very rich in thermal springs due to residual volcanic activity of the subsoil, in fact in the past the Romans built 14 spas: those of San Sisto were the Thermae of Paliano.
The spa area is managed by a private company so you have to pay a small entrance fee related to the purchase of the membership card of annual value, that then will allow you to enter as many times as you like and stay with no time limits, even during the night. There are services such as a locker room, a dining area, showers and a lawn where you can stay during the day at the spa: attention, however, because they do not allow camping and lighting fires.
4. Piscine Carletti, Lazio
As already mentioned, the Viterbo area is very rich in thermal springs, and there are still free spas, such as those of Piscine Carletti.
The spa of Piscine Carletti is formed by some tanks: the first three are the closest to the source and therefore hotter as the water flows at about 58 degrees, while the two distant tanks are more lukewarm. This water is classified in the sulfur-sulfate-bicarbonate-alkaline group, rich in trace elements and mineral salts, and because of its physicochemical properties, it is advisable to consult your doctor before making the baths. The surrounding area is kept clean by the local authority, which has also taken steps to arrange a beautiful green area, guaranteeing free access to the spa, both day and night.
So, I guess you are ready to take a dip by now. Do you know of any other natural wonders? Share them and discuss on our Swabit.
Comments