Saturnia Hot Springs - Your complete guide to Tuscany's most spectacular hot springs (2023)

You've probably seen or heard about the most famous hot springs in Tuscany - the Saturnia Hot Springs (aka theCascate del Mulino, Cascate del Gorello). They've been on many travel magazine "hot" lists and you've probably seen them on your social media feeds. SheArebeautiful and photogenic - but are they worth a visit?

Saturnia's hot springs cascade down several levels, filling the pools with warm, mineral-rich water. The pools are free to visit and their warm, turquoise thermal waters attract many visitors, so they are also very crowded.

You've probably seen photos that look like the one above or that show the empty and calm looking thermal pools. It's usually not that empty.

I first visited the Saturnia Hot Springs in 2004 and they were busy then, but mostly with Italian visitors and initiate travellers. They're no longer hidden, so I wasn't surprised to see more people on my last "off-season" visit.

However, unless you're expecting empty, idyllic hot springs or really hot thermal water (water temperature is only 37.5°C), Saturnia's hot springs are worth a stop for a dip. They are a beautiful natural highlight of Italy!

And if you show up at dawn, you might be able to snap one of those Instagram-famous hot springs photos.

When people talk about the Saturnia hot springs, they usually talk about these free springs - the Cascate del Mulino. However, there are other places to soak in Saturnia's thermal waters around the town of Saturnia, including the paid public thermal baths and the Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort.

Here's a quick look at Saturnia Hot Springs on a spring day:

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Where are the Saturnia Hot Springs?

The Terme di Saturnia are just a few kilometers outside the hamlet of Saturnia in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany.

They are located between Florence and Rome (slightly closer to Rome) and are often visited on a road trip between the two cities.

You will need a car to get to Saturnia as it is far from train stations in the countryside. YoumayYou arrive by public transport (bus or train/bus combination) but you spend most of your day traveling.

Distance between Saturnia and nearby popular Italian destinations:

• Florence – 195 km
• Roma – 150 km
• Siena - 110 km
• Orvieto – 75km
• Montepulciano – 90km
• Perugia – 125 km

How to get to the Saturnia Hot Springs?

It is best to drive to Saturnia with your own car. Not only is it the fastest and most convenient option, but it's also a beautiful ride no matter which direction you're coming from.

Helpful tip:The public hot springs in Saturnia are the “Cascate del Mulino” – GPS coordinates 42.64847507109099, 11.512860887464727. If you enter "Terme di Saturnia" you will end up in the public thermal baths, which are subject to a fee, or in the luxury hotel, both just a few kilometers away.

You can use the navigation system in your car or Google Maps. There are a few spotty areas for cellular service, but overall service is decent.

It's good to have a paper map as a backup. I like the Touring Club Italiano maps (green and yellow covers) and the Toscana scale 1:200,000 works well for this area.

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Driving in ItalyCar Rental in Tuscany

Alternatively, you can hire a private driver (NCC –Rent with driver) or join a group tour.

Ofmayby public transport to Saturnia (bus or bus /Zugcombo), but I would not recommend it because you will spend a lot of time waiting for transport or traveling with it. If youmustTake public transport, you'll want to spend the night in Saturnia.

Parking at Saturnia Hot Springs

The parking situation at Saturnia changes often, but you can drive to the hot springs and either ask or look for signs on the SP10the park. The signs say "PARCHEGGIO" or "PARKING" or a white "P" on a blue background.

Google Maps is not updated - some of the parking lots are no longer working.

At the time of writing (Spring 2023) the working site is the RV site which is 1.2 km from the hot springs. It's marked on the map above. You can park there (paid, €5/day) and walk down the street (there is a sidewalk) to the hot springs. If you have small children or non-hikers in your group, you can drop them off at the hot springs and then park.

Good to know:If you have children with you, they can play in the small playground in the parking lot.

Helpful tip:Do not park on the small road in front of the hot springs. Yes, you will see others parking there, but there are no parking signs and the local police issue fines (many).

Who Should Visit Saturnia Hot Springs?

A visit to Saturnia is perfect for you if:

• you want to visitone of the most beautiful in Tuscany beautiful natural sites
• You've seen the photos of the Saturnia hot springs andYou want to snap your own pictures
• Ofdon't mind sharing the hot springswith many other people
• OfEnjoy driving on Tuscan country roads(You'll be on them for a while no matter which direction you come from)

Read more about theBest Hot Springs in Tuscany

Who should miss a visit to Saturnia Hot Springs?

Saturnia Hot Springs may not be for you if:

• You want a quiet, tranquil experience– Saturnia is crowded unless you visit at dawn
• you don't have a car– Although it is technically possible to reach Saturnia by public transport, it will take forever and it is not convenient
• They can't stand the smell of sulfur– You smell the sulfur while bathing and afterwards on your bathing suit and towel
• You want a fun water area for your kids to play in. Yes, kids can bathe in the Saturnia hot springs, but there's not a lot of space, especially when it's crowded. And with so many people, it can be difficult to keep track of the kids.

Saturnia Hot Springs can be visited all year round

You can visit Saturnia at any time of the year and any day of the year!

The Saturnia Hot Springs are open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The main season of Saturnia is from May to November.

No matter what time of year you decide to visit, the sunrise is always gorgeous and it's relatively quiet even in the busiest months.

Good to know:There are some lights at the hot springs so you can see if you decide to visit late at night.

Spring in the hot springs of Saturnia

One of my favorite times to visit hot springs in Tuscany and a visit to Saturnia is no exception. I love going to Saturnia in spring when the slopes are bright green and dotted with grazing sheep and wildflowers. Also, it's not quite as crowded as in summer.

And it's not shocking to get out of the water (as it is in winter).

Summer in the hot springs of Saturnia

This is one of the busiest times in the Cascate del Mulino. Even when the temperatures are skyrocketing, you'll find crowds at Saturnia day and night. One of the best times to visit is when the moon is full, and the hot springs are full on those special nights.

If you decide to visit in the summer, you should know that there is no shade at the hot springs. So bring a sun hat and sunscreen, and remember to visit early in the morning or in the evening (to avoid the extreme midday heat).

Autumn in the hot springs of Saturnia

Another great time to visit the Saturnia Hot Springs - the cooler temperatures make a dip more comfortable and the crowds are starting to lessen. In addition, the surrounding landscape changes colors (trees and vineyards at Scansano) and you can harvest chestnuts on Monte Amiata!

Winter in the hot springs of Saturnia

Besides spring, winter is another favorite time of ours to visit Saturnia. It's a quieter time of year (although you'll find plenty of Italians at the weekends) and it feels great to be enjoying the cooler weather.

Helpful tip:Use the showers and hairdryers in the changing rooms. It's a long, cool walk to the parking lot if you have wet hair.

Water temperature and quality in Saturnia hot springs

The sulphurous waters of Saturnia have a temperature of 37.5 °C (99.5 °F).

The water flows at 800 liters per second and that is well knownhealing and therapeutic properties.

Good to know:You can see small red worms in the water. I was told they are harmless. I didn't see them on my last visit.

Facilities at Saturnia Hot Springs

I remember my first visit to Cascate del Mulino in 2004. It was much quieter but now there are facilities that make a visit easy!

In the hot springs of Saturnia you will find:

• A bar(Le Cascate di Saturnia) with outdoor seating, snacks and drinks (opening hours generally morning to late evening)
• Small and bigLockers(5€ deposit, + 5€ for small locker, 7€ for big locker)
• Water(paid machines)
• dressing rooms
• have a shower(1€ token buys 2 minutes)
• hair dryer
• toiletswithdiaper changing tables

Helpful tip:I like to get fresh fruit from the marketgrocery store. There are bar snacks, but fruit feels great after a dip in the hot springs.

Important tips for visiting the hot springs in Saturnia

• Bring a waterproof cell phone case.You will want to take photos at Saturnia. Do not leave your phone unattended at the edge of the springs.
• Don't leave valuables in your car or on the dirt at the edge of the hot springs. Use the lockers at the bar or the safe in your hotel room.
• Bring flip flops or water shoesif you have sensitive feet or are afraid of slipping.
• Don't use a droneunless no one is around. Here in Italy it is illegal to fly a drone over people.
• Listen to your body.Make sure you're feeling healthy and get off if you're not feeling well.Good to know:The nearest hospital is in Pitigliano and the nearest larger hospital is in Grosseto.
• drink enoughBring your own water or buy it from the bar next to the hot springs. You can also pay to refill your water at the bar (vending machine).
• Bring a flashlightwhen you come to visit in the dark. There are some lights at the hot springs, but you'll appreciate having lights on hand.
• Don't wear your jewelry.I was told that some jewelry would tarnish in the sulfuric waters of the hot springs. I can't give first hand experience as I didn't wear jewelry to test it.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially if you are visiting in the summer.
• Next to onetowel to dry off, bring one toolight blanket, scarf or sheetsitting on the dirty/muddy ground.

Where to Stay to Visit Saturnia Hot Springs

Saturnia is a tourist destination and there are many places to stay. Your options range from agriturismos to simple hotels to a luxurious resort.

Below I have listed places to stay that are very close to Saturnia (walking distance). You can see them all marked on the map above.

Good to know:You don't have to stay near Saturnia. You can also visit the hot springs on a day trip (even from "far" distant places like Florence) or stay in a nearby agriturismo or town (like Pitigliano or Montemerano).

Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort

This is the luxury accommodation in Saturnia. It's popular with Roman weekend travelers and you can walk around anywhere in your robe and slippers (my kind of place). The hot springs feed the huge thermal pool at the back of the hotel, and you can also treat yourself to treatments or enjoy the saunas and additional thermal baths.
I love that it's a spacious property and you can eat, relax, soak, sleep and repeat. Saying goodbye is always difficult for me.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is only 500 meters (6 minutes walk) from the hotel's main entrance to the public hot springs, but the driveway to the hotel is long. So, if you choose to walk from the hotel lobby entrance, it is about 1.1 miles (20-25 minutes on foot).
• Check dates and pricesforTerme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort.

Hotel Saturno Fontepura

This is another place to enjoy a less crowded soak at a hot spring spa. Hotel Saturno Fontepura pumps water from natural hot springs into its pool.

It's just outside the small village of Saturnia so you can go to town for a meal or walkAperitif.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is a 2.6 kilometer (30 minute) walk along the main road to the hot springs. Part of the trail has a sidewalk.
• Check dates and pricesforHotel Saturno Fontepura.

Earth-Saturn

This is a good option if you want to cook your own meals as Tellus has apartments with kitchens. Simple furnishings, centrally located in the small village of Saturnia.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It's a 1.6-mile walk (30 to 35 minutes) along mostly minor roads to the hot springs. Part of the trail has a sidewalk.
• Check dates and pricesforEarth-Saturn.

Bio-Bauernhof Il Torrione

Fattoria Il Torrione is onebiological(Organic) property within walking distance to Saturnia village and hot springs. Swimming pool and lots of green space to relax (or for children to play). This is a tranquil spot perfect for a pre or post swim in the Cascate del Mulino.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It's a 2.8-kilometer (35-minute) walk along mostly minor roads to the hot springs. Part of the trail has a sidewalk.
• Check dates and pricesforBio-Bauernhof Il Torrione.

Agriturismo Le Cascatelle

Agriturismo Le Cascatelle is a small property just a short walk from Saturnia's hot springs. It doesn't have a pool, but you can swim in the small river that flows upstream from the hot springs.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is an 800 meter (10 minute) walk along a narrow gravel road to the hot springs.
• Check dates and pricesforAgriturismo Le Cascatelle.

Martinatal

Valle Martina is a small hotel above the Cascate del Mulino. This place has an epic view from the swimming pool. The hotel is simple but well-kept. If you're traveling with kids, they'll love running around on the big green lawn.

Helpful tip:Visit thebeautiful view(beautiful view) from the SP10 (main road) exit near the Valle Martina. You look down on the Saturnia hot springs and get an idea of ​​the layout of the area.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is a 2 km (20 to 25 minutes) walk along the main road to the hot springs. I recommend driving to the parking lot and walking to the hot springs from there (small road and sidewalk).
• Check dates and pricesforMartinatal.

Biobauernhof Pian dei Casali

This organic agriturismo/hotel is located on the hill above the Cascate del Mulino. It has a swimming pool, a beautiful garden, a delicious breakfast and space for children to run around and play. It is opposite Valle Martina's main street.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is a 2 km (20 to 25 minutes) walk along the main road to the hot springs. I recommend driving to the parking lot and walking to the hot springs from there (small road and sidewalk).
• Check dates and pricesforBiobauernhof Pian dei Casali.

Poggio degli Olivi

The small hotel Poggio degli Olivi with pool is located between the Cascate del Mulino (free hot springs) and the Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort. Basic accommodation, apartments for rent, swimming pool.

• Distance from Saturnia Hot Springs:It is a 2 km (20 to 25 minutes) walk along mostly small roads to the hot springs.
• Check dates and pricesforPoggio degli Olivi.

Alternatives to Saturnia Hot Springs

The ground beneath Tuscany rumbles and bubbles and we have plenty of hot springs! If you have seen the Saturnia hot springs and want to try more hot springs in Tuscany, visit one of these places:

• Vignoni bathroom
• Chianciano Terme
• San Casciano dei Bagni
• Rapolano Terme
• Bagni San Filippo(and beWhite whale, or white whale)
• Petriolo-Thermen

If you stay in Florence you can also visit the Asmana Wellness World. It's northwest of the historic center, behind the airport, so you'll need to drive, take a taxi, or take the bus.

In Saturnia you can also visit the public thermal baths (Terme di Saturnia). You can use the baths for a daily fee. You also need to rent a bathrobe and slippers.

Things to do near Saturnia Hot Springs

If the hot springs have given you energy to explore, there is plenty to do nearby:

• Saturn– Visit the tiny village next to the hot springs
• Montemerano –picturesque village with one of Italy's
• Pitigliano– Explore the dramatic city built on tuff
• Tarot Garden- Gaudi fans shouldn't miss this colorful and whimsical art park near Capalbio (but check the website for opening dates as it's not open all year round)
• Peninsula of Monte Argentario– visit Porto Santo Stefano and Orbetello; relax on the beach; eat seafood; I loved the gravel biking on the peninsula
• beaches– this part of Tuscany (Maremma) has some of the wildest and most beautiful beaches in the region
• Bolsenasee– Go sailing, stroll through the city of Bolsena
• Small villages– Montemerano, Manciano, Sorano, Sovana
• See cave– Hike along the Etruscan paths carved into itTuffStein
• wine tasting– Taste the Morellino wines of nearby Scansano
• chestnuts– collect them from nearby Monte Amiata (Mount Amiata) and roast them (in autumn)
• To go biking– this is one of my favorite areas for cycling; Light traffic, beautiful scenery

watch moreThings to do in Tuscany!

Where to take the best photos in the Saturnia hot springs

If you have seen the beautiful photos of Saturnia Hot Springs on websites or in magazines and want to make one yourself, follow these steps:

• Visit at sunrise to snap a photo of empty (or nearly empty) hot springs.
• Try multiple angles to find what you like best. You can move on foot or even inside the pools.
• There is a great vantage point from a stop on the SP10 south of town. You can see the hot springs from above.
• Only use a drone if you don't have oneanypeople in the area. In Italy it is illegal to use a drone over people.
• Use a photo editor. Most of the photos show extremely milky white-turquoise water - and most of them are edited.

Visiting the Saturnia hot springs with children

Countless families visit Saturnia's free hot springs. Should you come with your children? It is important to use good judgment and listen to your family's medical advice.

Here are some things to know about visiting Saturnia with children:

• stroller– You can easily roll your stroller around the main entrance, into the bar and to the toilets (there is a ramp). But the actual dirt area surrounding the hot springs isn't stroller-friendly — it's rocky and sometimes muddy.
• toilets– You can use the toilets attached to the bar.
• diaper change– The toilets have changing tables.
• Essen– Grab a quick bite from the bar or bring your own food from the grocery store.
• water temperature– It hovers around 37.5°C (99.5°F).
• smell of sulfur– Some children cannot stand the smell of rotten eggs.
• water shoes– I don't wear them, but I would let my kids wear them. The surface of the pools is rocky and can be slippery.
• crowds– It can get very busy and difficult to keep track of your children when they are not directly with you.
• Easy access– You can walk straight to the hot springs. No hiking necessary!
• Swimsuits– You will smell like sulfur afterwards (and for a few washes). Remember to let diapered children wear a swim diaper. Floating shit ruins Instagram photos.
• bring plastic bagsfor wet clothes, diapers and rubbish. Also, make sure you have a waterproof case for your phone.
• After dark visits- Be careful your kids will probably see some couples kissing.
• water safety– The springs are not fenced, so take good care of your little ones.

Helpful tip:If you are unsure about taking your young children to the Saturnia Hot Springs, consult your pediatrician.

What we do:I haven't brought my children to Saturnia yet. Why not? My three boys are very active and I don't feel they have enough space (especially when it's full) to move around and play. They're not really the "sit and soak" type. While the springs aren't boiling hot, I wouldn't be comfortable with my 2 year old taking a dip in them.

Helpful tip:Not sure if your kids are ready for the hot springs? Try Bagno Vignoni instead - you can let the kids dangle their feet in the tiny thermal spring just off the parking lot.

Saturnia Hot Springs FAQs