Saturnia: The Most Beautiful Thermal Baths in Tuscany, Italy
When thinking of Tuscany, images of rolling hills with vineyards and cypress trees often come to mind. The region is also known for its picturesque villages, excellent wines, and art cities such as Florence and Siena. But did you know that in Tuscany, you can also find natural thermal baths? These natural baths, near Saturnia, are not only a source of relaxation but also a must-see during your journey through enchanting Tuscany.
About the Thermal Baths of Saturnia
The Terme di Saturnia, also known as ‘Cascate del Mulino,’ presents a captivating display of crystal-clear thermal baths in the heart of Tuscany. The water has an average temperature of around 37.5 degrees and is heated by Monte Amiata, a nearby extinct volcano. The baths are not only pleasantly warm but also rich in minerals often considered beneficial, contributing to the therapeutic properties of the baths. The thermal baths have been in use since Roman times, with a belief that the god Saturn sent a lightning bolt to the earth, creating an enchanting spring with sulfur-rich water. These healing waters quickly became a renowned retreat for the Roman elite, appreciating the water’s therapeutic properties. Today, the baths remain incredibly popular.
You can visit the baths for free, and they are open 24 hours a day. Contrary to some beliefs, the thermal baths are not part of the nearby spa resort in Saturnia.
How to Reach the Baths Best
Traveling by car is the most flexible and convenient way to reach Saturnia, especially if you plan to explore the region. You can rent a car through Sunnycars or Rentalcars, for example. Also, check out our article on must-see attractions in the region.
From cities like Florence (3 hours), Rome (2 hours), or Pisa (2.45 hours), take the highway towards Grosseto. Once in Grosseto, follow the signs to Manciano and then to Saturnia. The baths are about 3 kilometers from the village of Saturnia itself. Set your navigation to “Cascate del Mulino-Hot Spring, Saturnia GR, Italy,” or directly to the nearby parking lot (about a 3-minute walk) “Parcheggio Cascate del Mulino Saturnia.”
Parking near the baths is usually available, although sometimes limited during busy periods. Parking spaces are paid, and you can pay with a debit card or even wirelessly at the parking meter. At the time of writing, parking costs €2.50 per hour.
We came here by car ourselves, which was quite manageable, and there was ample parking available at that time. However, we were in the offseason; during the main season, it can get considerably busier. Therefore, we recommend arriving early.
The Best Time to Visit the Saturnia Baths
The Saturnia baths are very popular and attract many visitors. If you prefer to visit the thermal baths in peace, consider going before 7 a.m. In the early morning, you also have beautiful light for taking stunning photos. Since the baths maintain a constant temperature of 37.5 degrees throughout the year, you can visit them in any season. It can get very crowded in the summer months, so we recommend visiting the baths in the spring or fall.
What to Bring?
As you prepare for a visit to Saturnia, it’s wise to pack some essential items in your bag. Swimwear is, of course, a must. However, we recommend bringing older swimwear because the high sulfur concentration in the water can cause it to smell and discolor. It would be a shame to enter the water with your new swimsuit. Don’t forget to bring some food and drinks. There is a restaurant next to the baths, but it can be quite expensive. Also, don’t forget your sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a long time in the water. A hat can also come in handy due to the open landscape around the baths. Additionally, be aware that there are many pebbles on the bottom of the baths, which can be uncomfortable. Water shoes can be a solution for this.
Nice Accommodations Near the Baths
There are various accommodations in the region. Below are some options:
Terme di Saturnia Natural SPA & Golf Resort
Terme di Saturnia Natural SPA & Golf Resort, a luxurious resort where you can “escape the stress of daily life and immerse yourself in a transformative experience of luxury and relaxation,” according to the resort. Here, you have all the amenities: a spa center, gym, pools, restaurants, and more!
Booking can be done through booking.com, and a night here can cost around €350.
La Casa Delle Cascate
Furthermore, just a stone’s throw away is La Casa Delle Cascate. This is a 3-star accommodation of about 65m2 where pets are welcome. It offers self-catering, a private garden, barbecue facilities, and is located right next to the Cascate del Mulino grounds. A night here averages around €92-€118.
Agriturismo Le Cascatelle
Last but not least, there is Agriturismo Le Cascatelle. This charming farmhouse in Tuscany is only 800 meters away from the famous Terme di Saturnia thermal spa. Guests of this accommodation benefit from an attractive discount on the spa’s entrance fee.
For more options, check booking.com.
Useful Facts About the Saturnia Thermal Baths
Dog-Friendly
Dogs are welcome at/near the baths, but be careful not to let your dog get too hot, especially during the summer months. There is also a river next to the thermal baths, which you can use to cool your dog.
Changing Rooms and Showers
Next to the baths, at the restaurant, you can find toilets, showers, and changing rooms. This is handy when you want to take a shower and change after bathing.
Water Shoes
Since everything consists of stones and rocks, it is not the most pleasant surface to walk on. Water shoes are handy to walk around the area more comfortably, although not mandatory.
Water temperature
The water in the Saturnia thermal baths maintains an average temperature of about 37 degrees Celsius throughout the year. This pleasant temperature makes outdoor bathing attractive all year round.
