The Thermals of Segesta

(Terme di Segesta, also known as Aquae Segestanae)

We have visited the thermals of Segesta twice now. Mostly because of our own laziness, honestly. These are the kind of places you should be going to weekly if you live anywhere nearby.

And every time, the same thought comes back. How is this real?

Natural hot springs. Completely free. Open to everyone. Just sitting there in the middle of nowhere, quietly doing their thing.

Sicily keeps spoiling us like this. And at this point, I genuinely don’t know how we ever lived without it.

A Free Wonder Used for Centuries

The official name is Terme di Segesta. It was known already in Roman times, then called  Aquae Segestanae. The Romans believed these waters to be amongst the most medicinal in the region and used them for relaxation and healing long before wellness retreats and spa hotels existed.

Today, nothing about it is commercial. No tickets. No gates. No changing rooms. Just nature and hot water flowing exactly as it has for centuries.

The water temperature is around 47°C, rich in sulphur and minerals, and you feel it immediately. Not aggressive, but deeply warming.

The Atmosphere

Both times we were there, it was busy. Mostly locals.

And somehow, that makes it even better.

People greet each other. They chat. They sit quietly together. There’s a soft, welcoming energy that doesn’t feel touristy at all. You arrive, say hello, and you’re just… Included.

The pools are shallow, but once you sit down, the water covers you comfortably. It’s meant for soaking, not swimming.

Getting There Is Part of the Experience

This is important.

Getting to the thermals is an adventure. A real one.

You park your car and head down, but before you reach the hot water, you need to cross a river. Not a hot one. A very normal, cold river. No bridge. Just water.

In summer, it’s fun. In December, it’s… Character building.

For reference, I’m short, and the water came up to my knees in some places, but it’s mostly more shallow.

A Very Serious Shoe Warning

Please, take this seriously.

Do not come in flip flops.
They will not work... At all.

The path is muddy, slippery, uneven and genuinely dangerous if you’re not prepared. We saw a man fall because he was wearing flip flops, and it was not funny.

Get proper water shoes with grip. Barefoot is also not recommended unless you’re very comfortable walking on small, sharp rocks.

After crossing the river, you’ll climb a short hill that is incredibly muddy and slippery, especially after rain. This is not a place to rush.

The Pools and the Waterfall

Once you reach the main area, you’ll see the most accessible pool. This one almost always has people in it.

But if you’re up for a bit more exploring, keep going. You’ll need to walk through the river again for a little while, but after about 2-3 minutes you’ll find smaller, more private pools and even a natural hot waterfall.

It’s worth it.

Because of the temperature, it’s recommended to stay in the water for about 15 to 20 minutes, then take a break. Hydration is important too, especially in warmer months.

Why You Should Go

This place doesn’t try to impress you. It doesn’t need to.

It’s raw, slightly wild, a bit inconvenient, and absolutely perfect because of that. Sitting in water that people have used for healing for thousands of years, surrounded by nature, with no entrance fee and no expectations, feels almost unreal.

If you’re visiting Segesta or are anywhere nearby, this is a must.
Not as a quick stop, but as a moment to slow down and let Sicily do what it does best.

Quietly spoil you.

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See you in the next one.
Ciao!