The Tuscany region in Italy offers countless tourist charms, relaxing landscapes full of history, an international cuisine whose delicacies have become popular worldwide, and many other attractions, among which the different thermal baths stand out. This area of Italy has the privilege of possessing these baths, which lately seem to have gained great prominence on social media. Among them all, the most visited are the Saturnia Thermal Baths, located in southern Tuscany.
Thousands of people from all over the world come with the intention of benefiting from the properties of their sulfurous waters and improving their health. You can enjoy the warm baths all year round; the water is always at a constant temperature of 37°C (98.6°F). It has the added charm of the natural landscape, unaltered by the presence of nearby bars, hotels, or restaurants.
A stream, the Gorello, which originates in Mount Amiata, is the source of the thermal baths. This stream makes its way through a forest. In the rural setting, we find a large waterfall, the Gorello Waterfall, and an old mill escorting another stepped waterfall of white waters, a product of the limestone, which are called the “Mill Waterfalls.”
Whatever the time of year, you can enjoy these steaming waters, which can be accessed for free. In winter, the low ambient temperatures contrast with the warmth of the water. Conversely, in summer, it is advisable to go for a bath in the late afternoon, when the high summer temperatures have dropped, allowing us to enjoy the pleasure of watching the sunset over this beautiful region of Tuscany.
How to Get to the Saturnia Thermal Baths
Taking Siena as a reference, a must-visit city on a tour of this beautiful region, take the direction of Grosseto on the highway, taking the exit towards Roselle. After passing this town, continue towards Saturnia. The thermal baths are located one and a half kilometers before reaching the town that gives them their name. If you have any questions, consult the official website of the Saturnia thermal baths.
Legends
It is said that Saturn, the god of agriculture, became angry with men, throwing lightning bolts against Mount Amiata, and as a result, the sulfurous water emerged. In the Middle Ages, it was spread that the devil came out through the waters of the thermal baths. Hence the origin of the name of these well-known thermal baths.
History of the Saturnia Thermal Baths
The different inhabitants of Tuscany who have succeeded one another over the centuries have discovered and valued the therapeutic nature of the thermal waters. The Etruscan people were already aware of the benefits provided by these waters, and the Romans, also aware of this, built buildings around the thermal baths for the greater comfort of their users.
Surrounding Places That Cannot Be Missed
In addition to the landscape, visiting towns dotted around the countryside and cities full of history will make us enjoy everything this area of the Italian peninsula has to offer.
In Orvieto, a city located approximately 30 kilometers from Saturnia, you can visit the cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic, and the Park of the Caves.
In Pitigliano, also about 30 kilometers away, it is mandatory to tour its old town, the aqueduct, and the Orsini castle.
Montemerano and Manciano are places also worth visiting.
If you need to add more destinations to your trip to Italy, we recommend you take a look at these charming places.
Recommended Hotels
After a day exploring the wonders of southern Tuscany, there is nothing better than relaxing in a comfortable and nearby hotel. We recommend Agriturismo Le Cascatelle, which is an excellent option, as it is located a few minutes from the main points of interest.