Sorgeto Bay, located on the southwest coast of the island of Ischia, in the municipality of Forio, is one of the finest examples of the region's volcanic activity. Ischia, being an island of volcanic origin, abounds in hot springs and thermal waters, but Sorgeto Bay stands out from them in a special way. It is here, directly off the coast, that hot springs with temperatures as high as 90 degrees Celsius emerge from the seabed, mixing with the cooler seawater to form natural pools of ideal temperature for swimming.

The phenomenon of this place lies in its unique geological arrangement. Thermal water rises to the surface through fissures in volcanic rocks, which over time have formed natural basins and pools. The temperature of the water in these natural 'tubs' ranges from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius, depending on the distance from the source and the time of day. Interestingly, during low tide, access to the hot springs is easier and the water temperature in the pools is higher. On the other hand, at high tide, the sea water mixes more with the thermal water, which leads to a lower temperature, but at the same time creates a pleasant thermal contrast.

The chemical composition of the waters in Sorgeto Bay is as fascinating as their temperature. The waters are rich in minerals such as sulfur, iodine, bromine, calcium, magnesium and potassium, giving them a distinctive smell and unique healing properties. Locals have used these waters for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, from skin problems to rheumatic pains to respiratory conditions. Modern research confirms the beneficial effects of these waters on the human body, especially in improving circulation, reducing inflammation and regenerating the skin.

The geological history of Sorgeto Bay dates back thousands of years and is closely linked to the volcanic activity of the island of Ischia. The last significant volcanic eruption on the island occurred in 1302, but geothermal activity remains intense to this day. The island of Ischia, often referred to as the 'green island' because of its lush vegetation, owes its unique microclimate and fertile soils to this volcanic past.

The landscape of Sorgeto Bay is as impressive as its geological history. The bay is surrounded by high, steep cliffs that protect the place from strong winds and create an intimate, almost magical atmosphere. Volcanic rocks of various shapes and colors, from black to gray to reddish hues, contrast with the crystal clear, turquoise sea water and the white bubbles of steam rising from the hot springs.

The bay can be accessed in two ways - by land or by sea. The land route takes you through the picturesque village of Panza, from where you must descend some 200 steps carved into the rock. Although the descent can be demanding, the views compensate for any effort. Alternatively, the bay can be reached by boat from the nearby port of Sant'Angelo or from other villages on the island. This option allows you to admire Ischia's spectacular coastline from the perspective of the sea and avoid the demanding descent (and subsequent ascent) of stairs.

A visit to Sorgeto Bay is an experience that engages all the senses and remains in the memory long after you leave this magical place. Just getting to the bay is part of the adventure. As you descend the steep stairs carved into the rock, each step reveals a more and more beautiful view of the blue Tyrrhenian Sea and the picturesque coast of Ischia. Alternatively, a boat trip along the coast offers equally spectacular views and allows you to admire the island from a completely different perspective.

Once you arrive, the first thing that catches your eye is the contrast between the dark volcanic rocks and the crystal clear water in various shades of blue and turquoise. A fine mist of steam rises above the surface of the water, especially visible on cooler days, adding to the mystical character of the place. The distinctive, slightly sulfurous smell is a reminder of the island's volcanic origins and the healing properties of the waters.

Sorgeto Bay is not a typical sand beach - it's more of a rocky cove with natural pools formed by volcanic rocks. It's a good idea to bring water shoes to help you navigate the rocky bottom. Locals and regulars often bring small shovels with which to deepen the natural pools or create new ones to suit their own water temperature preferences.

A dip in the waters of Sorgeto Bay is a real feast for the body. The warm, mineral water immediately envelops the skin, bringing a feeling of deep relaxation and indulgence. You can find places with different temperatures - from pleasantly warm to really hot, depending on the proximity of the thermal spring. Some visitors practice alternating immersion in hot thermal water and cooler seawater, which is reminiscent of traditional Finnish sauna practice and has a beneficial effect on circulation.

A unique experience is bathing in Sorgeto Bay at sunset or in the evening. As the sun sets, the sky takes on spectacular colors from gold to deep purple, and their reflection in the water creates an amazing light show. Evening baths by moonlight and starlight have something magical and romantic about them, which attracts couples and seekers of unique experiences alike.

Sorgeto Bay offers more than just thermal baths. The water and silt from the bottom of the bay have cosmetic properties, thanks to their high mineral content. Many visitors use a natural mud mask, which is collected from the bottom of the bay and applied to the skin. After drying in the sun and rinsing with thermal water, the skin becomes soft, smooth and nourished. It's a natural open-air spa where beauty treatments are performed by nature itself.

Although Sorgeto Bay is accessible year-round, each season offers a slightly different experience. In the summer, the bay attracts more tourists, especially during midday, but early morning or late afternoon still allows you to enjoy the place in relative peace and quiet. Autumn and spring are ideal times to visit - the weather is pleasant and the number of visitors is much smaller. In winter, the bay offers the unique experience of swimming in hot water while the air temperature is much lower, creating a fascinating thermal contrast and the visual effect of more steam rising above the water.

It is worth remembering that Sorgeto Bay is a natural place, without the typical tourist infrastructure right on the beach. There are no changing rooms, showers or other amenities found on organized beaches. This is part of its charm and wild character, but it requires proper preparation. It's a good idea to bring everything you might need during your stay, including drinking water, snacks and towels.

When planning a visit to Sorgeto Bay, it's worth taking into account a few practical aspects that will help you fully enjoy this unique place. First and foremost, be sure to wear appropriate footwear - both for descending the steep stairs and for navigating the rocky bottom of the bay. Water shoes or sandals with good traction are invaluable. It's also a good idea to bring a towel, drinking water, snacks and sunscreen, especially during the summer months when the sun is especially intense.

The best time to visit Sorgeto Bay depends on individual preference. If you want peace and quiet and intimacy, go there in the early morning or late afternoon, especially outside the main tourist season. Sunset lovers should plan a visit for late afternoon to enjoy the spectacular colors of the sky reflected in the water. On the other hand, those interested in observing the tides, which affect the temperature of the bay's water, should check local tide tables before visiting.

Sorgeto Bay can be accessed in two ways. An overland route leads from the village of Panza, from where one must descend about 200 steps. Although the descent can be demanding, especially for the elderly or those with knee problems, the views compensate for any effort. Alternatively, the bay can be reached by boat from the nearby port of Sant'Angelo or from other towns on the island. This option allows you to admire Ischia's spectacular coastline from the perspective of the sea and avoid the demanding descent (and subsequent ascent) of stairs.

There are several restaurants and bars in the immediate vicinity of Sorgeto Bay, where you can enjoy local specialties and relax after swimming. These restaurants offer fresh seafood, traditional Italian dishes and local wines. Prices are average, typical of Italy's tourist regions. Try local specialties such as 'coniglio all'ischitana' (rabbit in Ischitanian style) or 'pesce all'acqua pazza' (fish cooked in 'crazy water' with tomatoes, garlic and herbs).

The island of Ischia offers much more than just Sorgeto Bay. During your stay, plan time to visit other attractions. Aragonese Castle (Castello Aragonese) in Ischia Ponte is an impressive medieval fortress on a small island connected to the main island by a stone bridge. La Mortella Gardens in Forio, created by the wife of British composer William Walton, is a botanist's paradise with exotic plants from around the world. Park Termale Poseidon in Forio is the largest thermal complex on the island, with numerous pools of varying temperatures, saunas and wellness treatments.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike to the island's highest peak, Monte Epomeo (789 meters above sea level), which offers panoramic views of the entire island and the Gulf of Naples. The route is moderately difficult and takes about 2-3 hours one way, depending on the starting point and walking pace.

The island of Ischia is also famous for its wine production. Local wineries offer tastings and the opportunity to purchase wines that are hard to find outside the island. Particularly recommended are white wines from the Biancolella and Forastera varieties, and reds from the Piedirosso and Per' e Palummo varieties.

For those interested in history and culture, an interesting place to visit is the Archaeological Museum in Lacco Ameno, displaying artifacts from the Greek colonization of the island. Art lovers, on the other hand, should visit the Chiesa del Soccorso church in Forio, whose terrace offers one of the most beautiful sunset views on the entire island.

Transportation on the island of Ischia is well organized. Local buses connect the main towns and attractions, and tickets can be purchased at kiosks or directly from the driver. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or car, which gives you more freedom to explore the island, although the narrow, winding roads can be a challenge for inexperienced drivers.

Sorgeto Bay and the island of Ischia are destinations that offer a unique combination of natural beauty, history, culture and gastronomy. Regardless of the length of your stay, the island leaves an unforgettable impression and often attracts visitors to revisit to discover more of its corners and secrets.