Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Thermal Spa Resorts

Ischia is a volcanic island making it world renowned for it's thermal spa parks and natural hot
springs. Tiny gas pockets and springs may be found all over the island. Some of those fortunate enough to have inherited land rich in thermal activity from their ancestors capitalized on the opportunity by creating thermal spa parks. Negombo Spa and Giardini (gardens) Poseidon are two of the most popular. Entrance starts at 33euro per person for a full day and from 23 euro per person for a half day (from 13h.00). All parks generally close at 19h00 and are closed for the winter months of November through April, during which you will find both accomodation and inhouse spa treatment available at the Hotel Villa Sorriso.

The thermal parks offer a number of different pools at varying temperatures: Turkish baths, Saunas, Japanese pools, Jacuzzi baths, Jet stream massagers and so on. Each of the above mentioned parks also offer private beach facilities as well as the use of sun bed deck chairs. Towels and robes are available for hire but if you wish you may bring your own. Remember to take along some flipflops or slippers. The parks are also rather relaxed about guests bringing in their own food and drinks so if you can make it to the supermarket just before and take along some water and refreshments (its important to keep hydrated in the heat) and some snacks, it might be worth your while, however, there are refreshment kiosks in the park. The canteen serves up hot pasta dishes, salads, fruit platters, and seafood or meat dishes in a self-service/buffet style. If you can afford to splash out, I highly recommend the restaurant or sushi bar in Negombo. For more information on other thermal parks on the island, please see the Thermal Spa Parks page.

If you would like to experience Ischia's thermal waters in their most natural state then Sorgeto is the way to go. Sorgeto, derived from sorgento meaning spring, is Ischia's public thermal bath. Situated in a cove in the sea water of the Bay of Sorgeto, the springs offer timeout to locals and foreigners alike. At any time of day or night these springs are available for public use and enjoyment and is free of charge access. There are however 230 stairs to be tackled before reaching the springs (coming up, I recommend you take it slowly and stop at the view points to catch your breath and take in the scenery). During the day is a great time to go to immerse yourself in the culture of the Ischitani people. But in the evenings, under the stars, Ischia reveals an indescribable beauty. Note: If visiting Sorgeto, I would recommend going when the sea is at its calmest as it is easier to relax in the water and the temperature of the rock pools are maintained (closer to the cove wall can reach over 60 degrees celsius, and further out the temperatures cool slightly by the sea water). If going at night, take some candles or a torch just to be sure you don't stand in any scorching hot pools.

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