Keep Warm In These Tuscan Thermal Springs
For those who think that Tuscany is limited to sprawling landscapes and charming hill-top towns, think again. Besides an extensive coastline, there is much to experience in this vast region that we adore so much. One of which are the abundance of options for those who enjoy a thermal hot spring experience, which also happens to offer a range of benefits for the skin and body. Personally, we love organizing a day with our girlfriends to visit them, along with lunch after popping over to a nearby small village. There are natural ones that people can go whenever they want, you must bring a towel and change of clothes. Or you can visit the many day-spas for a dip, that also offer treatments, showers, and a place to get a bite to eat. Here are a few of our favorites, just be aware that there might be a sulfurous smell due to the source ;-).
In the wild | Free Hot Springs
Terme di Petriolo, natural hot springs near Montalcino that has attracted people since ancient times (including a few popes and the Medici members). This is one of our favorite spots to go and play since they are immersed in beautiful nature. The natural sulphuric water basin are part of the Farma river and which can be used for free in various pools where people take a dip, the temperature varies around 42 degrees (Celsius).
Terme di Saturnia, the natural hot springs are located in the Maremma region, on the Tuscany/Lazio border. This is often the favorite of many because of the beautiful cascading pools that you probably have seen on pinterest. There is also a spa you can pay to visit nearby, but we highly recommend the Cascate del Mulino, which are free and breath-taking.
Every Girl Needs A Bit Of Pampering | Hot Spring Spas
Bagno Vignoni, while technically there are free, natural springs located in this stunning area in Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, they are too cold to actually swim in since they are further down than the source. The 49-meter-long rectangular pool in the center of town is representative of the town, but you can’t swim there. We recommend instead visiting one of the day-spas, the 15th century Albergo Le Terme is affordable and very central, while Hotel Adler Thermae Spa & Relax Resort is one of the best luxury options.
Rapolano Terme, another personal favorite as it is only an hour and a little change from Florence and which boasts two thermal spring spas open all year, Antica Querciolaia and Terme di San Giovanni. Both are excellent choices, affordable, with a temperature that ranges around 39-40°C to 30°C.
Montecatini Terme, a town known for its thermal spa centers since the 15th century, you definitely have a few options here as this was once the well-heeled playground for the rich and famous. The architecture is very Art Nouveau with Il Tettuccio being one of the most popular spots.
Fonteverde Tuscan Resort Spa is one of the most exclusive thermal spring resorts in San Casciano dei Bagni, the building is in a Medicean residence dating from the 17th century built by the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici and now houses 66 rooms. It is close to Lago di San Casciano and the village of Chiusi. There is an extensive spa complex, complete with seven different pools, some with a view of the beautiful Val d’Orcia countryside.
Additional tips can be found in the wonderful blog of Mapitout-Tuscany and Around Tuscany, the regional website.
