Italy's Hidden Natural Pools Offer A Pristine Swimming Oasis With Spectacular Views

If you're looking to escape the heat — as well as the crowds — in Sorrento, Italy, head to the Queen Giovanna Baths (Bagni Regina Giovanna). The natural swimming pool is hidden on the tip of the Cape of Sorrento (Capo di Sorrento). It's only accessible on foot by a trail that passes ancient ruins. But the blue-green water, enclosed by cliffs, is well worth the hike. Upon first glimpse, it is easy to see why the Queen of Naples used the pool as her own personal oasis.

The Sorrento Coast is one of Italy's most-popular coastal destinations. The rugged peninsula sits at the southern end of the Bay of Naples. Its steep cliffs drop straight down into the Tyrrhenian Sea. And the unforgettable views from this promontory stretch to Naples and Mount Vesuvius on the mainland and out to the islands of Capri and Ischia.

There are plenty of transportation options to reach this part of Southern Italy. Naples International Airport (NAP), just an hour north, has direct flights from all over the world. If you are connecting from other parts of the country, trains from Napoli Centrale, the city's main station, take about the same amount of time. Or the high-speed ferry, which departs from Beverello Port (Molo Beverello), connects Naples and Sorrento in only 40 minutes.

After exploring the cobblestone streets, the churches, and the trattorias lining the piazzas in Sorrento's historic center, you will start feeling the pull of the coastline. Do not fight it. This is your chance to go find the Queen Giovanna Baths. The search begins on Via Capo, a scenic road to the west of the city that follows the coastline. Turn right on Traversa Punta Capo and follow the old Roman road past high walls, crumbling villas, and lemon and olive trees. From there, you will see the coast and go down a steep staircase. You will soon pass the ruins of Villa Pollio Felice, a grand coastal retreat from the 1st century BC.

Though the villa's ancient columns and preserved mosaics are impressive, you are already focused on the sparkling water ahead. It is surrounded by limestone. Small, rocky terraces, instead of sandy beaches, act as seating areas. At the end, a natural arch separates the calm pool from the open ocean.

No wonder this was the queen's favorite spot. Joan II ruled the Kingdom of Naples in the early 15th century. She regularly bathed in this quiet, protected pool and frequently entertained her lovers here, as well. The pristine swimming spot was eventually named in her honor. There is no cost to visit the queen's baths.

The Cape of Sorrento is part of the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella. This 25-mile stretch of the Sorrento Coast was established to protect the area's nature, landscape, and history along the water. It is now reserved for boating, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and hiking. The main hike, the Path of Punta Campanella, is a nearly 5-mile loop trail that leads down to the Punta Campanella Lighthouse and then up to the Church of San Costanzo at the top of Mount Costanzo. The 360-degree view from the summit extends up and down the coast and out toward the islands.

After admiring the stunning coastline from above, get up close by joining a boat tour to explore the marine life and the underwater caves. Punta Campanella Diving offers a variety of trips, including beginning dives and sunset snorkeling.

The famous, though treacherous, Amalfi Drive (SS163) also starts in Sorrento. Renting a motor scooter is the best way to get around the Amalfi Coast. A Vespa will give you more freedom to visit the hidden cliffside town of Praiano, as well as Maiori, a total paradise without huge crowds. You're going to want to make a lot of stops anyway, since the views along this narrow road are simply breathtaking. It will not take you long to find your own little oasis, just like the queen.