Imagine if you had the option of having a heated, outdoor swimming pool surrounded by greenery. Now imagine that the water in this pool is also a bit magical, healing. Can you think of such a place? If you want this dream image of yours to come true, we recommend that you go and visit the Segesta thermal baths.
The thermal baths of Segesta between myth and reality
We are in the province of Trapani, in Sicily, where myth and legend intertwine to give life to tales worthy of the best Greek mythology. According to legend, the God of rivers Crimiso wanting to warm the nymph Egesta he unleashed his power by causing the river water to become hot as if it were boiling. Subsequently, the God and the nymph married and gave birth to These who founded the city of Segesta with the main objective of honoring his mother. Beyond the myths and legends, which, however fascinating they may be considered, still remain tales, the thermal baths of Segesta are a concrete reality located in the village of Calatafimi, easily reachable from Alcamo and Castellammare del Golfo.
The warm river of Calatafimi
The baby's water Hot River flowing in Calatafimi meant that there was a spa famous throughout the island. Although the establishment is well maintained, the natives, and the more adventurous, follow "ancient traditions", much cheaper and more Spartan, by going to a nearby small lake emerging from the same river. It will be enough to cross a short country path. As is known, the spas exploit the sulphurous waters of naturally hot springs, specifically, the waters of this river reach a temperature that is around 47 degrees centigrade. At reasonable prices for the service it offers, the spa offers the possibility of using, in addition to hot water, also hot mud, a panacea for the skin. However, we always recommend that a possible visit be preceded by a phone call, since the structure is not open all year round and you would risk having nasty surprises.
The attractions of Segesta
The whole area is littered with artifacts and "ruins". The municipality of Calatafimi-Segesta, named as a consequence of the ancient city, is a veritable mine of history and culture. The Temple of Segesta, dating back to the third century BC is the flagship of an archaeological park, of all respect. Absolutely not to be missed is the Segesta Theater, which along with the Fortified Area, e Door to Valley, complete an enviable archaeological journey. Give yourself half a day off, equip yourself with your camera and go to the fortified area which, being on a hill, will offer you a magnificent view over the valley.
Near the Terme di Segesta… Castellammare del Golfo
If there weren't at least one beautiful seaside village like few, you wouldn't be in Sicily. In the northernmost area of the Trapani area, just thirty minutes from Calatafimi we recommend a dip in Castellammare del Golfo. The typical beaches of fine sand and the particular conformation of the seabed create a Caribbean scenario. A peculiarity of the place is the celebration, in September, of the "Madonna del Soccorso". Celebrated every two years, in memory of the battle against the English, which legend has it, it was foiled thanks to the intervention of the Madonna of the assicursu.
