Volcanic Baths Of Venus
Welcome to Pantelleria, the largest satellite island of Sicily. All the 83km2 of Pantelleria, "rich land of offerings" has much to offer that will fascinate you so much, that you will be enticed to stay longer than you planned. Coupled with the opaque blackness of the lava rocks, the deep blue and emerald green of the sea will bid you to stay a few extra days and some.
Pantelleria's coastline spells mystery… secluded creeks, ravines and intriguing caves are a romantic escape for the adventurer in you. Check out this coastline by boat. Set off from Pantelleria and move clockwise. The jagged and low-lying north cost and then rocks with fascinating black profiles in Cuddia Randazzo in which you can find human and animal shapes. How about a swim in the soothing waters of the inlets and caves? Once refreshed, you should move on. There's the Arco dell'Elefante and the amazing caves and hollows separated by lava pillars with the most fascinating grottoes lying between Punta Duca and Punta Polacca. Further down, you will encounter great towering cliffs and large rock monoliths pointing sharply out of the sea. Then, with a sigh, you reach your journey's spectacular destination as Saltalavecchia comes into view.
After your tour of the waters, it's time to get onto solid ground. The islands highest point is the ancient crater Montagna Grande at 836m. Then, there is the black lava coastline chock full of caves and small headlands that venture into the sea. The fertile volcanic sol drains well and is home to the best quality wines. Pantelleria offers Solimano, a delicate bouquet sparkling wine and Passito di Pantelleria which is made from zibibbo grapes. Another specialty is the salted capers. Don't miss out on wine tasting!
You will notice that the volcanic activity in the region is still evident in various natural phenomena that take place in Pantelleria, both on land and in the waters. Just off the cost, hot springs rise from the sea bed while sulphuric vapors spring out from natural caves. On the land, steam jets out sporadically from volcanic rocks, especially around craters. Then, there are the baths of Venus, located in a large volcanic basin in the north of the island of Pantelleria. The lake smells strongly of sulphur and is linked to the sea by way of an underwater cave that was created by ancient lava streams. The lake gets its support from thermal springs on the southern shore. The temperature of these springs varies from 40 to 50 degrees. The baths of Venus are said to have been used by the Goddess as a mirror. Even today, the water of the baths reflects, like a highly polished surface, the breath taking scene of the surrounding mountains as they change color during sunset and sunrise. For a rejuvenating experience, take a dip in the lake and scrub yourself down with its sulphuric mud. Feel the stress and strain of every day existence seep out of your body and a new clean energy take its place.
