A day at Saturnia hot springs: thermal baths in maremma

Surrounded by hills, stone villages, and natural springs, Saturnia is one of the most unique destinations in the Maremma. Here, thermal water flows through travertine pools nestled in the countryside, creating one of Tuscany’s most recognizable landscapes.

But Saturnia isn’t just synonymous with thermal baths. The small village preserves traces of its ancient history, and just a few kilometers away lies Montemerano, one of the most picturesque towns in the southern Maremma.

From theHotel Granduca in Grosseto , you can plan a full-day excursion, alternating relaxation in the thermal waters with exploring the villages and landscapes of the inland region.

We suggest an itinerary that starts at the famous Cascate del Mulino waterfalls and continues through Saturnia and Montemerano, with some practical tips to help you plan your visit.

9:30 a.m. – The Cascate del Mulino, the natural hot springs of Saturnia

The first stop we recommend is the Cascate del Mulino, also known as the Cascatelle di Saturnia, one of the most photographed spots in the Maremma.

The thermal water flows along the Gorello stream and, as it seeps through the limestone, has formed over time a series of small natural pools arranged in tiers. The light color of the travertine, the blue of the water, and the surrounding countryside create a truly picturesque landscape.

The water flows from the spring at a temperature of about 37.5 °C and remains warm throughout the year. For this reason, the waterfalls can be visited even in the fall and winter, when the contrast between the cool air and the steam rising from the pools creates a particularly enchanting atmosphere.

The best part is that admission to the Cascate del Mulino is free: you don’t need to buy a ticket or make a reservation.

We recommend arriving in the morning, especially on weekends and during the summer, when the area can get very crowded.

What to Know Before Entering the Water

The Cascate del Mulino is a natural setting, not a traditional swimming area. The bottom of the pools is uneven and can be slippery, so it’s a good idea to bring water-appropriate footwear.

We also recommend bringing a towel, a change of dry clothes, and a bag to store your wet clothes. There are parking areas and some amenities nearby, but availability and rates may vary.

Please also keep in mind that these are sulfur-rich waters, recognizable by their distinctive odor.

The Cascate del Mulino and the Thermal Park: What’s the Difference?

When talking about the Saturnia thermal baths, it’s important to distinguish between two experiences—both special, yet each offering a different sensation. The choice is yours on how to enjoy your moment of relaxation.

The Cascate del Mulino are natural outdoor pools, freely accessible, where you can immerse yourself in the warm water surrounded by the Maremma landscape.

The Terme di Saturnia Thermal Park, on the other hand, is a fully equipped facility (for a fee) featuring thermal pools, whirlpools, relaxation areas, and wellness services.

The choice depends on the kind of day you’d like to spend. The waterfalls are ideal for an experience in touch with nature; the Thermal Park is better suited for those seeking comfort and wishing to spend several hours relaxing. If you choose the Thermal Park, we recommend checking availability, admission options, and hours directly with the facility.

12:00 p.m. – Saturnia, a small village with an ancient history

After bathing in the thermal waters, you can visit the nearby village of Saturnia, situated on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside.

The town has very ancient origins and preserves traces of its Etruscan and Roman past, as well as buildings and views that reflect its subsequent medieval transformations.

The historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot, as you stroll through narrow alleys, small squares, and stone houses.

Among the sights to see are the Porta Romana, part of the ancient city walls, and the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, one of the town’s main religious buildings.

The Via Clodia and Saturnia’s Roman Past

One of the most interesting aspects of local history is the route of the Via Clodia, an ancient Roman road that connected Rome to the territories of inland Etruria.

The Porta Romana stands as a testament to this past and serves as a reminder of Saturnia’s role as a link between the coast and the inland region.

1:00 p.m. – A lunch break featuring the flavors of the Maremma

After strolling through the village, it’s time to stop for lunch.

At the local trattorias and restaurants, you can discover some typical dishes of Maremma cuisine, such as tortelli with ricotta and spinach, pappardelle with wild boar, and dishes made with local ingredients.

It’s also a great opportunity to discover the culinary side of the inland region, which differs from the seafood-based cuisine typical of coastal towns. We recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

2:30 p.m. – Montemerano, one of the most beautiful villages in the Maremma

In the afternoon, we suggest heading to Montemerano, just a few kilometers from Saturnia.

This small medieval village, part of the municipality of Manciano, is one of the most delightful stops to include on an itinerary through the southern Maremma. The historic center features cobblestone alleys, arches, stone houses, and views that seem untouched by time.

The most picturesque spot is Piazza del Castello, a small square surrounded by medieval buildings, balconies, and loggias. It is the heart of the village and one of the most photographed spots in the area. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, admiring the details of the facades and the views that open up onto the countryside.

If you love strolling through medieval villages and discovering the history of the Maremma, we recommend setting aside another day to visit Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana: exploring the “Cities of Tuff,” an itinerary through ancient settlements, narrow alleys, and picturesque landscapes carved into the tuff.

The Church of San Giorgio and Its Frescoes

In Montemerano, the Church of San Giorgio is also worth a visit; it houses important works of art, including frescoes and paintings linked to the artistic tradition of the Maremma.

Among the best-known works is the so-called Madonna della Gattaiola, a panel painting that owes its name to a curious opening cut into the lower part of the painting.

It is an unusual detail that illustrates how works of art have endured through the centuries, sometimes taking on functions very different from their original ones.

An alternative: spend the whole day at the spa

The itinerary between Cascate del Mulino, Saturnia, and Montemerano is designed for those who want to balance wellness with exploring the area.

If, on the other hand, your main goal is to relax, you can choose to spend more time at the thermal baths and skip a visit to one of the villages. During the warmer months, the Cascate del Mulino are very popular, while on cooler days the warm water makes for a particularly pleasant experience.

For those who prefer fully equipped pools, changing rooms, and spa treatments, the Thermal Park is an alternative that should be booked in advance.

Saturnia from the Hotel Granduca: A Day of Wellness and Exploration

Saturnia is located in the hinterland of the province of Grosseto, about an hour’s drive from the Hotel Granduca, depending on the route and traffic.

The journey takes you through the Maremma countryside and allows you to discover a side of Tuscany different from that of the seaside resorts: hills, small villages, and rural landscapes.

When you stayat the Hotel Granduca, located at Via Senese 170 in Grosseto, you can spend a day visiting the thermal baths and the villages in the hinterland, then return comfortably to the hotel.

And if you’d like to continue your wellness journey, you can also discover our SPA, a space dedicated to relaxation right on the premises.

For suggestions on itineraries, places to visit, and planning your day, ask our front desk: we know the area well and will be happy to help you discover the Maremma.

Contact us to plan your stay at the Hotel Granduca and enjoy a day exploring Saturnia, the thermal baths, and the villages of the Maremma.