Wellness spots in Tuscany: 4 free spas to regenerate

Not far from the Saturnia Hot Springs there are the most spectacular thermal waterfalls in all of Tuscany. It's one of those places that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Behind a historic mill, water pours into natural pools that allow you to enjoy the beneficial powers of these spas while surrounded by the beauty of the landscape.

Saturnia is a delightful village in Maremma in the municipality of Manciano. The hot springs are located just outside the town, near the spa. The sulphurous waterfalls are fed by the Gorello stream that joins the Stellata river. Over time, it has dug the lovely natural limestone pools where you can take a pleasant dip even in winter.

From the Maremma, we move to the Val d’Orcia to immerse ourselves in the warm waters of the San Filippo hot springs. The waterfalls and pools of these spas are surrounded by woods, creating a dreamlike experience.

The most scenic area is the one known as the Balena Bianca, a large and delicate limestone formation. It can only be observed: it's forbidden to touch it, walk on it and bathe in its vicinity, but along the path that runs alongside the hot springs you can find pools where you can immerse yourself for half an hour (recommended duration) and enjoy the place in total relaxation. Entry into the area of the Fosso Bianco stream is allowed from via San Filippo only, the access road to the Rovinati farm.

From Val D'Orcia, we head to the Ombrone Valley along the course of the Farma river, between the towns of Civitella Paganico and Monticiano. Here, the natural thermal springs of Petriolo are surrounded by greenery, cascading at a temperature of 43 degrees. The characteristic limestone of these spas has allowed the formation of pools over time that naturally collect the warm thermal waters of the springs where you can relax.

The high concentration of sulfur guarantees therapeutic effects for the respiratory system.

San Casciano dei Bagni is a wonderful village surrounded by nature and it's one of the most iconic places in the Valdichiana.

In the village, there are numerous hot springs with 40° C water. In the area, you can find free baths from the Roman era that are still largely usable. You can reach them at the foot of the hill that surrounds the medieval village. The most famous one is made of stone, with a triangular shape. In the immediate vicinity there are also covered baths and a large pool called the caldagna.