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A natural treasure in Southern CorsicaThermal springs

Thermal springs

Let yourself be seduced by the benefits of the natural thermal waters, true treasures of Southern Corsica.

Give yourself a moment of relaxation in the hot baths of Caldane or Baracci, where sulphurous water at 37°C gushes straight from the rock to soothe body and mind.

These springs, rich in minerals and sulphur, are renowned for their therapeutic virtues. They effectively relieve rheumatism, osteoarthritis, respiratory ailments and skin problems.

All you have to do is immerse yourself in this beneficial water, and let nature take its course. An ideal wellness break to incorporate into your holiday in Southern Corsica.

Discover these unique places where health, pleasure and authenticity are one.

1.

The Baracci baths

Relaxation and natural virtues at Olmeto

Located in the commune of Olmeto, just a few minutes from Propriano, the Bains de Baracci are much more than just a spa: they are natural sulphur springs that have been used since ancient times, a rare legacy of the thermal wealth of southern Corsica. With natural thermal waters, relaxing treatments and breathtaking views over the valley, the site blends tradition and modernity to give you an unforgettable experience.

The Baracci springs gush out at nearly 37°C and are rich in sulphur and minerals. They are renowned for their soothing properties, particularly on: joint pain (osteoarthritis, rheumatism), skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis), muscular tension and stress. Accessible all year round, the water is used directly in the pools without chemical treatment, to preserve its natural properties.

Swim in the large indoor pool (70m3) which can accommodate up to 30 people. Or outside in the infinity pool offering a breathtaking view of Olmeto. The Baracci baths are there for your well-being. Take advantage of these hot-water baths to relax and enjoy your holiday in Corsica.

The thermal centre has been renovated while retaining its authentic charm. You’ll find:

  • an outdoor pool with thermal water at 38°C,
  • an indoor pool with massaging jets,
  • a panoramic jacuzzi,
  • a steam room and a sauna,
  • treatment areas: massages, wraps, beauty treatments.

Whether you come for a moment of relaxation or for a natural cure, everything is designed to offer you comfort, calm and serenity.

  • The history of the baths

    Ancient origins: the therapeutic virtues of these hot waters were already known to the Romans. Excavations have brought to light votive objects and coins bearing the effigy of the Emperor Hadrian, testifying to a place of worship and care dedicated to the deities of healing.

    Renaissance in the 19th century: After centuries of oblivion, the springs were rediscovered in the 19th century, following sewerage works in the Baracci valley. In 1881, the first spa project was launched, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that a proper spa was built.

    The golden age of Corsican spas: In 1925, a 30-room hotel and a modern spa were built by M. Giacomoni, inspired by colonial architecture. The site became extremely popular, attracting spa visitors and travellers alike. In 1956, it was taken over by the Ortoli family, who continued to run the baths until the 1980s.

    From neglect to modernisation: After a period of closure, the commune of Olmeto bought the site in 1992. Restoration work was undertaken to bring the baths back to life, while respecting their natural and historic character. Today, after a 2-year renovation, the Baracci Baths offer a setting combining tradition and comfort, with modern facilities: thermal pools at 38°C, hammam, sauna, wellness treatments…

  • Is it suitable for children?

    Yes, the spa area is accessible to families, but children must remain under adult supervision. Access to facilities such as the steam room and sauna may be restricted according to age.

  • practical information

    The baths are open all year round. It is advisable to check the opening times on their official website or with the Propriano or Sartène Tourist Office.

    Free parking is available in the immediate vicinity of the baths.

    Rates vary according to the services chosen. Expect to pay an average of €10 to €15 for simple access to the baths.

    You can book by telephone on 04 95 76 30 40

Activities and gourmet breaksaround the Baracci baths
2.

The Caldane baths

Between mountains and river, the thermal secret of Southern Corsica

At just20 minutes from Sartène, on the outskirts of Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano, the Caldanes spa estate welcomes you to apreserved natural setting, nestled between two mountains.Here, everything invites you to unwind and feel good.

Discover three granite pools, carved right into the rock, with sandy bottoms and naturally warm sulphurous water running through them. The main pool, of Roman origin, is still used today for its relaxing properties. In days gone by, the locals would come here to bathe, and the women would wash their clothes nearby, near the old mill that can still be seen.

The other two pools have been developed more recently, with respect for the surrounding landscape.

A soothing experience in the middle of nature:

Submerge yourself for 20 minutes in this soothing 37°C water, then relax on a deckchair, lulled by the murmur of the nearby river. The spa is open all year round, so you can enjoy its benefits in any season.

Extend your wellness break with:

  • a gourmet moment at the estate’s restaurant,
  • access to the jacuzzi, sauna, and massages,
  • or activities for young and old: table tennis, gym, fitness trail, playground and mini-golf for children.

Have an authentic and rejuvenating break at the Bains de Caldane, one of the thermal gems of southern Corsica.

  • The history of the baths

    A spring known since Antiquity: the Caldane thermal spring has been used since Roman times. Even back then, the locals came to bathe here to relieve their aches and pains thanks to the natural properties of this sulphurous water at 37°C, gushing straight out of the rock.

    For generations, the villagers have continued to frequent this spot. Near the old mill – still visible today – women washed their clothes in the hot water while others took advantage of the spring’s virtues, in the heart of the Corsican maquis.

    A site restored with respect: the first medical descriptions of the spring date back to the 1930s, under the impetus of Dr Zuccarelli. But it was from 1960 onwards that the estate began to take shape, thanks in particular to the Sereni family, who set up a bar-restaurant and fitted out the first facilities while preserving the spirit of the place.

    After the tragic flood of 1993, Antoine Sereni breathed new life into the estate by carefully renovating it, perpetuating the family tradition around the natural thermal bath.

    Today, immerse yourself in a place where time seems suspended, between ancient history and natural benefits. Welcome to Les Bains de Caldane.

  • Are baths suitable for children?

    Yes, families are welcome.

  • Practical information

    The baths are open all year round. It is advisable to check the opening times on their official website or with the Propriano or Sartène Tourist Office.

    Free parking is available just inside the entrance to the estate.

    Rates vary according to the activity: access to the baths: around €7 per person (guide rate).

    In addition to access to the baths, the site offers:

    • a restaurant with Corsican specialities,
    • a jacuzzi, a sauna, massages and body treatments,
    • leisure activities: sports room, table tennis, children’s mini-golf, playground, fitness trail.