THERMAL SPRINGS IN TUSCANY Tuscany is the perfect destination for those who wish to enjoy some well deserved pampering. A land rich in thermal baths and hot springs, which have been celebrated since roman times for their many health benefits, it is easy to find a place to dip – especially in southern Tuscany. In addition to the popular resorts (see next post), which offer more of a high-end experience, there are a number of free springs which can be visited year round. Dipping in any of these free springs and pools is obviously a bit of a rustic experience, but it is fun nonetheless. Be warned, however, that if you try to visit a free hot spring in peak season, especially during the weekend (or worse – during a holiday), you will be disappointed. The site will be so crowded you might regret having come at all. Below you will find three recommended spots. All three are fun and worth exploring. To find out more about the best thermal resorts and spas in Tuscany, as well as the best day spas, consult our travel guide – Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist. 1.BAGNI DI SAN FILIPPO
The thermal pools of Bagni San Filippo are a wonderful little surprise for those who are visiting the Orcia Valley in Southern Tuscany. The site consists of a series of delightful little pools, carved over millions of years in the limestone, and filled with warm thermal water. Once you see the site, it will be very hard to resist the urge to jump in… The thermal pools are small but inviting, and as you venture further along the stream, a number of larger pools are revealed. If possible, visit this magical little place off-season, when you can enjoy the tranquility of the forest and the springs. To complete your visit, consider a short hike in the vicinity.
2.TERME DI SATURNIA
Terme di Saturnia is the most famous and popular free thermal site in Tuscany. In a sense, this is a much larger version of Bagni di San Filippo; there are more pools, all carved in the rock, a larger stream, and there is even a parking lot near the site, where you can leave your car. Honestly, no trip to the Maremma will be complete without stopping here and enjoying the sulfur and calcium rich waters. If you prefer to dip in a more exclusive fashion, there are a number of resorts in the area, all of which offer thermal pools which are replenished regularly by these same springs. Some of these resorts are excellent, others a bit less so. To find out more, consult Tuscany for the Shameless
Hedonist.
3. TERME DI PETRIOLO The Terme di Petriolo is a site for the brave – those who do not fear a somewhat more rustic (but fun) experience. The spring here is especially rich in sulfur – be prepared for a dip in some extra smelly water (!) and make sure you dip in a piece of clothing or swimsuit that you can throw away later. But don’t fear the potent odor; men and women have been coming here since Renaissance times, knowing that these mineral rich waters will help to cure their ailments. Even the Medici family would often visit the springs. How do I get there?
To Reach Bagni di San Filippo (about 15 minutes from the Orcia Valley) drive to the little town of Bagni di San Filippo, and follow the signs to the “terme”. To reach Saturnia, drive to Scansano (in the Maremma) and follow the signs leading to “Saturnia Terme”. To reach Terme di Petriolo, drive to the tiny town of Bagni di Petriolo (near Civitella Paganico), and follow the signs.