The natural thermal springs in Segesta are a hidden gem, but here are a few tips to make your visit easier:
Access Roads: The road coming directly from the man-made spa thermal area (west of the natural spa) is in very poor condition. If you don't have a suitable vehicle, it's better to park higher up and walk down. Alternatively, there's another parking area south-east of the springs, accessible via a turnoff from the Strada Statale 113. From this parking area, you'll need to walk a bit, but then there's no need to cross any streams.
Thermal Pools: There’s one main pool that’s the most popular and usually has the most visitors. If you're looking for more privacy, follow the small trails leading to smaller pools. These are less crowded but often frequented by nudists, so be prepared for that. I counted four pools with genuinely hot water, including a small grotto functioning like a steam bath. The walk to the furthest pool takes about 5 minutes—no long hikes required!
Sulfur Smell: The sulfur smell isn’t overwhelming and is strongest near the main pool.
Friendly Dog: A stray dog often accompanies visitors—it’s very friendly and adds a bit of charm to the experience.
Accessibility: The paths and access points are manageable for anyone with normal mobility. You don’t need hiking boots. Regular shoes, flip flops or barefoot are fine!
Overall, it’s a fantastic spot to relax in nature, especially for those who appreciate a natural, rustic vibe—if that’s not your style, the nearby official, man-made thermal spa might be...
Read moreOK we had a reasonably good time but I hadn't researched as well as I could have and I'd like to manage expectations a bit. You think you're going to a magic secret pool. It's on Google. I went in April and it was busy. I enjoy a little bit of personal space. It felt a bit like sharing a bath with strangers. Lots of people sat in the same warm, smelly puddle wishing each other weren't there. It's awkward. Now we didn't explore the full area. The puddle pool is just the start and if you are willing to walk across a scaffolding pole or have footwear you don't mind getting wet you can go up the river and there apparently another pool and a little cave. Now whether they're cramped and uncomfortable who knows. My kids enjoyed playing in the river but felt the animosity in the in shared bath. The journey there is a bit worrying especially in a hire car. Fording the river is easy if you have the right shoes or some level of natural agility. Hopping over slippy rocks scared me a bit. I reckon in summer it'll be ridiculously busy but knock yourself out. Just don't...
Read moreThis place is a gift of mother nature & if you are a fan of natural hot springs you will not be disappointed. Also the river that leads to the hot spring pool is great to cool down.
It is definitely recommended to park your car right when entering the path, rather than going all the way down to the actual parking spot. There is also a private property that doesn't seem to be happy with the situation, so please make sure not to block his entry way.
The street is also not so good condition. Otherwise, as another reviewer recommends, there is a second parking spot on the other side.
Please take your trash home again and do not litter. If you want to give back to mother nature, bring a plastic bag and collect some trash to keep everything clean...
Read more