Starting from: 0 per person
1h
English, Italian
Unlimited
Free beach
Suitable for children
Suitable for couples
Pets allowed
Parking available
Barrier-free
Language supports
Free access
You can book a tour with a private tour guide by calling Movery's service department at 351.5585067
There are also private and equipped lidos on the shoreline
Disabled persons in wheelchairs cannot access, as the path is rocky
In the enchanting setting of Cape Sorrento, among the reefs of a wild blue sea surrounded by the rich Mediterranean vegetation, hides a small corner of paradise, known by the name of Queen Joan's Baths. In the beautiful natural basin there are still the ruins of a grand Roman villa that was inhabited over time by illustrious figures as well as the passionate Queen Joan. Be enchanted by its stories and legends and visit one of the most fascinating places in Sorrento where you can take a dip in the beautiful waters of the sea, completely immersed in a wonderful landscape that will leave you breathless.
The beauty of this site comes not only from the history and legends that permeate the place, nor from the charm of the unspoiled nature in which the basin is immersed. Everything is wonder, and everything makes this place an explosive and irresistible mix that makes it one of the must-see tourist destinations of Sorrento. The picturesque rocky bay of Bagni della Regina Giovanna can be accessed by walking along a path from Capo di Sorrento, among the rich vegetation and the scent of the sea breeze, leading to the limestone cliffs overlooking the sea.
After the pleasant and characteristic walk in the verdant path, the landscape one encounters is truly unique: on the cliff, lapped by the waves of the sea, lie undisturbed the mysterious remains of an ancient Roman villa. From here, continuing up a flight of steps, one arrives at a small and enchanting lagoon, protected from the open sea and connected to it only by a picturesque natural arch. The beautiful beach with shallow turquoise waters is a very romantic place to dive in and spend precious time with your partner, surrounded by the special light of the inlet.
We recommend, however, that you continue further to Capo di Sorrento, where an incredible panorama awaits you that from the Gulf of Naples, sweeps as far as the islands of Ischia and Procida. The perfect culmination to best end an unforgettable day.
The popular name by which this fascinating natural basin is identified is due to the fact that in place of what now appears to be just ancient fenced ruins, there once stood a majestic villa Of about thirty thousand square meters.
Dating back to Roman times, the luxurious residence was later inhabited by other illustrious figures, including the name of the most unique among them: the Queen Joan. It is said that between 1371 and 1435, the villa was used as a resort by the sovereign. Here the fiery and passionate character of Queen Giovanna d'Anjou Durazzo, found an outlet for the wildest love affairs. Hidden from prying eyes, it seems that the sovereign hosted young lovers from all walks of life among the villa's rooms, only to get rid of them soon afterwards by throwing them into the sea.
Historical sources testify to a certain veracity of the story.
To get to the Queen Joan Baths, you have to walk along a path of about 600 meters, immersed in vegetation then continuing on a fairly steep staircase. The path is pleasant but not entirely easy so it is recommended to bring a cap to protect yourself from the sun and water. The bay is free but continuing beyond there are also equipped lidos. However, the seabed is rocky and it is good, therefore, to equip yourself with rubber shoes for the rocks.
The place can also be reached from the sea.
The earliest historical sources concerning the remains of the villa Roman that we can admire on the cliffs of Cape Sorrento, date back to Statius, who described the residence in his work "Silvae." Other sources, however, were those of Horace, Strabo and Pliny the Younger, who also mentioned the villa in their writings.
The majestic architectural work of the maritime villa, probably dated back to the 1st century B.C., and its first owner was a member of a wealthy noble family, Pollio Felice. The villa was originally spread over an extensive area of at least two hectares, which could be divided into two distinct parts: a maritime domus, which overlooked the sea, and a residence that stood instead among the fields. The two structures were then connected to each other by a series of tunnels and terraces.
The villa was exploited for two profitable activities: oil, lemons, wine and other field products were produced in its fields while the sea offered the catch. Finally, the basin below was used as a mooring place as well as a private swimming pool for the villa's wealthy owners.
In ancient times, ghosts were believed to have haunted the mansion in the 15th century, manifesting and animating it.
Various films were shot in the enchanting setting of this rocky bay. Among them in 1955, the basin was used as the setting for the clandestine meeting between Sophia Loren and Vittorio de Sica in the movie "Bread, Love and.
With Movery you always have a digital assistant at your side. Before booking we are at your disposal to clarify any doubts, after booking we will send you all the partner's information with which you can define the last little details. Don't worry until the experience is completed (and even during) our assistant will be there to resolve any unforeseen issues and clarify any doubts.