SHARRYLAND
Thermal waters of Viterbo: discovering the free thermal baths
A relaxing break in the heart of Tuscia Viterbese, among springs, thermal pools and archaeology
Where is
Viterbo, natural hot springs: discovering a great thermal basin
Thethermal waters of Viterbo have been much loved by local people since ancient times, and when you get here it is easy to see why. From the city of Viterbo, you head out into the countryside and gradually find various establishments, pools and thermal springs. All seasoned with archaeological remains scattered here and there because these waters were also highly valued by the Etruscans and Romans, who in turn had built beautiful spas. Viterbo's spas are natural because they are heated and enriched with minerals naturally due to the volcanic nature of the area. Yes, there are no active volcanoes, but there once were, and the signs can still be seen, and not only in the hot springs... Lake Bolsena and Lake Vico are two fine examples.
The thermal waters and free spas of Viterbo.
The thermal district is quite large, boasting a nice variety of springs and waters. The first major distinction lies in the temperatures at which the water gushes out of the ground: there are hyperthermal springs , between 40 to over 56 degrees Celsius, and hypothermal springs , which are around 30 degrees. Also important is the mineral composition of the water, which here in general is sulfureous-sulfate-bicarbonate-alkaline-earthy with slightly different characteristics from source to source. It is a great help against joint, skin and respiratory conditions, but it is also perfect just to relax a bit. There are many establishments in the area, but there is also the option of free spas. Free spas are a real treat for low-cost travelers or for those who would like to try spas out of curiosity, but without spending too much. Here then is where to find free spas, free or almost free, near Viterbo.
Terme dei Papi, one of the most renowned spas in ViterboBullicame thermal spring
Getting to the Bullicame spring takes only a few minutes by car from the center of Viterbo. Already the last part of the route is relaxing: a beautiful country road that goes into the sweetness of the Tuscia landscape. When you reach your destination, you continue walking through the grass until you meet the two thermal pools carved into the rock. One, roundish, with the water temperature around 55°, and the other, more rectangular, with a milder temperature. A short distance away, protected by a transparent structure, is the actual spring, which seems immersed in a moonscape.
The Bullicame and Dante
There is a curiosity about the Bullicame spring: centuries ago, its gaping mouth in the ground and the incessant sulfurous fumes rising suggested to Dante Alighieri that he use the Bullicame as a metaphor to describe a hellish stream. His words, Inferno, canto XIV, vv.76-84, are recorded on a plaque placed a short distance from the spring itself.
Eugène Delacroix, Dante and Virgil in the InfernoCarletti Hot Springs
Near Viterbo we find another very suggestive place: the Carletti pools. Here, too, the hyperthermal spring is protected by a fence. It is located on a rocky area that gradually fades into a beautiful green meadow. The rock hosts several natural thermal pools, much loved by those who want to experience the thrill of bathing at night: they are always open and ready to welcome visitors. The darkness, the silence, the water vapors rising in the night-it's all very impressive, but remember: these are absolutely free spas, meaning there are no services or assistance.
Terme del Bagnaccio, along the Via Francigena
The Bagnaccio is the facility furthest from the city center, but also the most structured and, at this time, also unfortunate: it has not been accessible for a few years, it seems due to the lack of an association that can manage it. We still include it in our list because we hope that it will be back in operation soon. The Bagnaccio spa has a water temperature around 60°, several pools and a few services. The last association that had it under management was asking for a financial contribution in order to use them, but certainly very beneficial. Those at the Bagnaccio are much loved waters by local residents, considered very useful as an aid against respiratory problems. We hope they can soon return to welcome them and visitors curious about them.
The Bullicame spring, protected by a fenceFree spas, free everyone? Not quite. Tips for making the most of Viterbo's hot springs
Exploring the spas of Tuscia Viterbese means relaxation in the hot water, but also adventure for exploring the countryside in search of the springs, romance, with the opportunity to be quiet in the water under the stars, fun, if you are traveling in a group, wellness, if you seek the help of the thermal waters against some ailments... but you need to keep a few things in mind before setting out.
Personal safety first: there is no staff to help you, so especially at night, don't go alone. If you are looking for some therapeutic benefit, talk to your doctor first; he will be able to advise you on the most suitable approach. Finally, free spas are beautiful and much loved by locals. Love them too and respect them by using them with care and without abandoning waste. So every time you return you will always find them charming and welcoming.
Enter the Map of Italy's Undiscovered Wonders and find treasures where you least expect it... Inspire, Recommend, Share...
Collections
The Map thanks:
Enter the Map of Italy's Undiscovered Wonders and find treasures where you least expect it... Inspire, Recommend, Share...
