Attention all spa-goers! If you plan to go on a Mediterranean getaway to relax, there’s a spectacular spot in Italy you shouldn’t miss. Have you ever heard of the Saturnia hot springs (Terme di Saturnia in Italian), a group of ancient natural hot springs in beautiful Tuscany (Toscana), Italy?
Here’s a stunning place to visit if you’re in north-central Italy.
What are the Terme di Saturnia?
The Terme di Saturnia are a group of natural hot springs, the most famous of which is the Cascate del Mulino also called the Cascate del Gorello.
The legend says that Jupiter threw lightning during a violent dispute with his father, Saturn. The god of the gods missed his target, causing the creation of these unique structures.
It’s unsure how old the region of Terme di Saturnia is exactly, but mankind discovered the benefits of this natural wonder over 3,000 years ago!
Terme di Saturnia also refers to a specific 5-star luxury hotel & spa located next door, so there’s a lot of confusion among visitors (Terme di Saturnia the area vs Terme di Saturnia the hotel).
Let’s talk about the region first. It has become a popular destination for both Italians and foreign travelers, especially the Cascate del Mulino, the most popular spot within Saturnia hot springs.
You’ve probably already seen these beautiful terraces separating the limestone pools and the turquoise-colored waterfalls on Instagram!
Why visit the Terme di Saturnia?
The water remains consistently warm at around 37.5°C (99.5°F), so you can also jump in even in winter.
It’s very rich in minerals which are believed to provide lots of benefits for skin health and relaxation.
The source yields approximately 800 liters per second so there’s no shortage of fresh water.
The best part? You can visit Cascate del Mulino for free, and it’s open 24/7!
We recommend visiting during the day, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can totally enjoy a midnight bath under the stars (but bring a flashlight with you).
Another great thing about Cascate del Mulino is that it’s located in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, allowing you to combine your visit to the hot springs with wine tasting or hiking.
Now, onto the downside… This is a highly popular spot among locals and travelers. During the peak season, don’t expect to have the baths all to yourself. You might even see a few drones flying and filming.
During spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), the site is usually a bit less crowded, just like almost every part of Europe.
Where is Terme di Saturnia located?
Terme di Saturnia is situated in the Maremma region of Italy, in the municipality of Manciano.
It’s just a short distance from the village of Saturnia, hence the name.
How to get to Terme di Saturnia?
Saturnia is located about halfway between Rome and Florence, 2 of Italy’s most popular destinations.
It’s very remote, in the middle of the countryside, so your best option is to rent a car and drive for 2 or 3 hours from either city. It’s as low as $40 per day if you decline the rental agency’s damage insurance — you get free rental car damage insurance by using your credit card.
When using GPS, remember to type “Cascate del Mulino” to go straight to the free, Instagram-famous spot that everyone wants to see.
If you type “Terme di Saturnia”, you might end up at the hotel sharing the same name or somewhere else in the town of Saturnia.
If you don’t want to rent a car, traveling by bus from Rome or Florence is possible, but it involves multiple transfers and will take much longer to reach your destination.
Saturnia does not have a train station. You can take the train to Capalbio, and from there, you’ll need to find a taxi or a combination of local buses to reach Terme di Saturnia.
As for getting to Italy itself, our self-transfer tip is often the cheapest way, as flights from Paris or London are often as cheap as $33 one-way.
Where to stay near Terme di Saturnia?
As mentioned above, you have the option to stay at the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Natural SPA & Golf Resort, just a short walk from Cascate del Mulino.
You can enjoy the thermal waters in the hotel’s various pools and spa facilities, but of course, this experience is not free! The price is often $575 per night.
Here are 4 more affordable options nearby:
Hotels
- Cheapest: Saturnia Tuscany Hotel
- $101 per night
- $51 per night per person with a companion
- Rated 8.8/10
- Well-rated: Villa Acquaviva Wine Resort
- $195 per night
- $98 per night per person with a companion
- Rated 9.3/10
- Well-rated: Bagno Santo Residence
- $161 per night
- $81 per night per person with a companion
- Rated 9.0/10
- Luxurious: Hotel Saturno Fonte Pura
- $246 per night
- 3-night stay minimum
- $123 per night per person with a companion
- Rated 9.4/10
- $246 per night
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Summary
These surreal thermal baths in Italy are even more magical in real life and… they are free! The Terme di Saturnia are a group of natural hot springs to add to your itinerary if you’re visiting Tuscany.
What would you like to know about the Saturnia hot springs in Italy? Tell us in the comments below.
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Featured image: Cascate del Mulino, Italy (photo credit: Ulf Meyer)
