Acqui Spa

Location

Situated in a barycentric position in relation to Turin, Milan and Genoa, Acqui and its baths are found in the region of Piedmont. Although it is situated in the heart of Monferrato, the Apennines let the brackish air of the Ligurian coast filter through. 

Times gone by 

Already popular in the first century BC, the baths of Acqui have been operating continuously since ancient times. The first users of the establishments included the Latin writer, Pliny who referred to the baths of Acqui as the best in the empire. In the Renaissance period, it played host to nobles of the House of Este, while it was used as a military thermal station in the 18th century and flourished once again in the 19th century with the creation of the Terme Nuove (New Baths) in the city centre. After the closing of the thermal activity after the second world war, the Baths of Acqui have seen a rebirth in recent years, which has been accompanied by development works in the city centre. 

Reasons to visit 

It is the most famous thermal centre in Piedmont, but is also a food and wine capital. In fact, Acqui is the fulcrum of some of the most important wine productions in Italy: the Dolcetto and Brachetto, a red sparkling wine with a fruity and delicate taste, not to mention the white wine obtained from Cortese grapes. It is surrounded by beech groves and woods of oak and fir where one can collect excellent mushrooms and truffles. It has a noteworthy production of tasty cheeses. The areas surrounding the baths of Acqui also include other interesting centres such as the beautiful city of Alessandria, the towns of Rivalta Bormida, Morsasacco and Ponzone, which offer fascinating views of Monviso and Monte Rosa. 

Description 

Acqui is considered a small capital with a joy to live. Its thermal facilities are mainly fed by two sources: the boiling water which flows out of the earth at temperatures of over 73 degrees and running water which is very rich in mineral salts. The Acqui specialities are mud baths, particularly suitable for beauty treatments and for articular clinical treatments. The city embedded in the hills of Monferrato (one of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Piedmont) has ancient remains such as the castle of the Paleologi, the Roman aqueduct and an interesting archaeological site, which is testimony of the historical origins of this settlement founded by the people of Liguria. The Duomo and the botanical gardens are particularly impressive, while the “La Bollente”, a sort of “hot stove” of thermal water, is a monument to the baths. 

Useful information and advice 
“Nuove Terme” Spa Complex 
Via XX Settembre, 5 
Any time of year: 
Regina Spa Complex 
Viale Mario Donati, 6 
Open from the beginning of April to the end of November. 

The treatments are held weekly and generally consist of cycles with 12 sessions. Bookings are required. Plastic thongs and bathing caps are necessary when entering the thermal pools.