After our E-Bike tour, we had the afternoon to ourselves and decided to hike to Bagni Regina Giovanna. I had seen pictures of this hidden swimming hole and thought it would be a great out of the way spot to visit. What I didn’t know about this area is between the swimming hole and the sea is an ancient villa ruin! It was a great surprise to both of us and we enjoyed the entire area.
Location
Bagni Regina Giovanna is located on the Cape of Sorrento just a short trek west of the busy old town.
Hike to Bagni Regina Giovanna
We started our hike after lunch, and it took us through the old town area, then past Marina Grande from above and on a busy road with a few scattered hotels. I had a map with me although google was working so it was a big help.
There was no big sign or any type of clue where to turn off the main road at but with google telling me to turn, we did see a small sign on a wall telling us this was the way. We also saw a few people walking towards us that were wearing swimming suits so this was a great clue as well!
The walk towards the swimming pool was stone walled on both sides. Trees and gardens adorned the sides. There appeared to be some older villas along the route as well but they were hard to see. All in all, a very pleasant walk.
As we continued on our walk we noticed an ancient wall to our left. We thought this was pretty amazing, having no idea that the best was yet to come.
After the ancient wall, the trail opened up with just wood fences on either side. Soon we saw the sea along with a trail that led to the left leading to the swimming hole.
The Hidden Swimming Hole
For many years, the natural pool, known as Queen Giovanna’s Baths. Named so after the Queen of Naples, Queen Giovanna d Angio. It is said she enjoyed the remoteness and met her lovers there for a refreshing swim. I have researched her and the most interesting post I found was here if you would like to read more.
Carefully down the slick rickety steps we descend to the pool. Much to my surprise, there were people swimming. Definitely too chilly for us to swim. I must admit, I am a warm weather swimmer only. Although the pool looks amazing to swim, I was fine just viewing.
The Villa
After enjoying our time by the secluded pool, we followed the trail back up and turned towards the sea. As we came closer to the sea, we were pleasantly surprised at the beautiful ruins of a seaside villa. Not until we started to wander around did we realize how large of a ruin this is. It made this hike even more special and we were like a couple of kids climbing around a sand pile. It was so much fun.
Originating back to 1 BC, this ancient ruin was called Villa Pollio after a Roman Noble. In its day, the villa was grand villa and may have been used for the wealthy to vacation. The pool was incorporated as part of the villa as evidenced by passageways and terraces.
The Way Back
After having our fill exploring and climbing around , we followed a different path back towards the pool. We were glad we did as we were able to see a different view of the secluded oasis from above.
Our walk back to the hotel was uneventful and we just enjoyed walking through the town of Sorrento which we were enjoying staying at.
Conclusion
Although not clearly a hike, visiting Bagni Regina Giovanna was a big thumbs up for us. Not just for the scenic pool and views but for the totally surprise of the ruins here! Such a bonus to find one great spot and realize there is so much more once you get there!
You can also Follow me on Instagram!!!!
Click below for more from my Italy 2023
E-Bike tour Mt Vesuvius May 2023
Hiking Punta Campanella to Grotta di Minerva, May 2023
Our Rainy Day in Rome – May 2023
Rome to Pompeii by Train-May 2023
You can also check out my 2022 Italy trip posts:
Wandering Lecce, Italy – April 2022
Tenuta DonnAnna Cooking Class-Puglia, Italy, April 2022
Walking Through Porto Selvaggio-Puglia, Italy April 2022
Walking Through Capo di Leuca-Puglia, Italy April 2022
The Ciolo and Cipolliane Path-April 2022
Punta Palascia Italy-April 2022
Diary of a Gen-X recommendations for hotels, restaurants, & tours are based on our own experiences. We do not receive compensation for recommending at any of these nor are we affiliates of any hotels, restaurants, or tours. The only hotels & restaurants we recommend are places we stay which are clean, comfortable, and also provide exceptional hospitality.