Picture this. Natural rock ‘hot tubs’ filled with bright blue thermal water and waterfalls cascading between them. Seems pretty sweet, right? Well, in the name of research, I went there and I’m here to bring you a real talk guide with everything you need to know about how to plan a visit to the Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany. AKA probably the most picturesque thermal pools ever.
All The Details About How To Visit The Saturnia Hot Springs In Tuscany
FAQ for visiting the Saturnia Hot Springs
Disclaimer
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Where is it located?
Saturnia, Tuscany, about 5 hours drive from Ederle.
What is it called?
Cascate del Mulino.
How much does it cost?
Free entry and free parking.
What are the opening hours?
Open 24/7 year-round.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes – of course, you know your kids best, so use your best judgment as to whether this is a good choice for your kids.
What should you bring with you?
- Lightweight towel
- Wear a swimsuit you don’t mind smelling like sulfur
- Water Shoes – not necessary, more details below
- Waterproof camera – I used a GoPro on this compact selfie stick and tripod combo
- Minimal valuables unless you have someone staying with the bags
– not necessary, more details below
Where to park for Cascate Del Mulino
Use ‘Parcheggio Saturnia Le Cascatelle’ in Google Maps to navigate to the thermal pools and this is the location for the parking area.
If you use ‘Cascate del Mulino’ it will also take you to the parking area so either will work.
The parking lot is free and from there you just walk across to the main area of the natural pools.
What to expect there
Crowds and Instagrammers.
I went at sunrise and it was already quite crowded while I was there. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for a crowd. It’s best to go as early as possible to be able to get a parking spot as well.
In my opinion, it’s a place that’s worth seeing because it’s so beautiful but be warned that it’s incredibly overrated. There was trash all around and in the pools, backpackers and campers washing their dirty laundry in the water, and Instagram shoots everywhere you turn.
Not quite the serene spot in nature it is marketed as.
But still, I think it’s absolutely worth seeing for yourself and experiencing a swim in the gorgeous natural pools. Just offering a heads up.
A look at the main area of the Saturnia hot springs
What’s in the thermal water
If you’ve ever been around thermal water, you can also expect that distinct sulfur ‘rotten egg’ smell. You’ll smell it as you’re driving in before you get there.
For that reason, it might not be best to wear your favorite swimsuit in case the smell is hard to get out in the laundry. I usually rinse my swimsuit in the shower straight after the swim which helps and I have never had an issue not being able to get the smell out.
The thermal properties of the water are said to be beneficial for circulation, digestion, and skin conditions. If nothing else, it’s certainly relaxing on the body and a nice way to start the day.
The water is warm, so it’s a popular spot to visit in winter when you can soak in the warm water with the cool air hitting your face.
Swimming areas at the Saturnia hot springs
The main area with the layers of natural pools and waterfalls cascading over them is a gorgeous sight to see.
In the morning, the water looks bright blue and is just gorgeous. It fades a little as the day goes on and the sun is brighter so I think morning is the best time to see it.
You can walk up past the building to the top of the waterfalls and there is a stream where you can also swim in that may be quieter than the main falls, depending on when you visit.
Another option is to follow the trail further down past the bottom of the falls to find a quiet spot to soak in.
Main area
Bottom of the pools
Swimming area above the falls
Safety tips
When I was researching to visit the Saturnia hot springs, I read a lot of reviews that mentioned needing to wear water shoes.
I didn’t wear any and my feet were fine while walking through the pools, so I don’t think they are necessary. But, in saying that, if you have sensitive feet, it would be nicer to have the water shoes.
The only other safety tip that I think is worth mentioning, is to not leave any valuables in your bag or car. There was at least one guy walking around looking at bags a little too long and I think it’d be a prime spot for having valuables stolen.
Where to stay nearby
I stayed at Agriturismo Fontenuova and absolutely recommend it.
The agriturismo is only 10 minutes drive from the thermal pools, which made it super convenient and it also had its own hiking trails and natural pools on the property.
If you want a quiet stay in the Tuscan countryside, this is the place to go.
Other options for swimming in Saturnia
If you prefer more of a ‘day at the spa’ type thermal swimming experience, you could stay at the Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort nearby or visit on a day pass for just under €30 a day.
They have a range of pools, sauna, and relaxing areas as well as a full spa salon.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot to soak in the thermal water and aren’t fixed on the main waterfall area, you can follow the river along on the map and see that it goes for quite a while. As you’re driving around you can stop to soak in one of the less crowded areas downstream if that’s more your style.
More guides for visiting Italy
- A Big List Of Things To Do In Vicenza And Surrounding Areas
- Cinque Terre Itinerary And How To Plan A Weekend Visit
- Tramonti Di Sopra Nature Pool – The Off The Beaten Path Swimming Oasis
- Maximize Your Visit With This Guided Tour Of The Colosseum In Rome
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