Terme di Saturnia
Pappasole-village
Buca delle Fate
The pearl of the Maremma
The best known free spas in the world are located in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma. Best known as Terme di Saturnia, their real name is Cascate del Mulino. This enchanting place, nestled in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, is a must-see destination for anyone wishing to regenerate and relax in a heavenly setting. Imagine immersing yourself in the pools filled with hot thermal water while your gaze wanders over the breathtaking nature that surrounds you… and in your ears only the soothing sound of the waterfalls. Live an unforgettable experience and let yourself be enveloped by the charm of this magical place.
The features
Here are some of the features that make Le Terme Libere Cascate del Mulino so special.
- The water constantly gushes out at 37 degrees.
- They are fed by natural thermal springs gushing from the surrounding rocks.
- The thermal waters form natural pools of different sizes and depths, so everyone finds the right place to swim or relax.
- The thermal waterfalls, of volcanic origin, make these free spas fascinating and unique. The atmosphere created by the thermal water flowing down the rocks is highly suggestive.
- The surrounding natural landscape is typical of the Maremma, made up of green hills and wheat fields.
Therapeutic properties
The benefits of these thermal waters are many: for the skin, body and mind. These waters are rich in sulphur, calcium and magnesium, minerals that promote blood circulation, relieve muscle and joint pain and improve skin health. Experience the natural massage of the water currents from the waterfalls on your body. Experience the whirlpool effect that will stimulate circulation and help you relax muscle tension. In addition to the body, the mind also benefits from this magical place. Enjoy the well-being provided by the tranquillity and beauty of the Maremma landscape. Treat yourself to this unforgettable experience that will deeply regenerate you.
When to go
Although the Mill Falls are an idyllic destination all year round, there are perfect times to fully enjoy their beauty and rejuvenating power. Spring, for example, is an ideal time to soak in the thermal waters of the Mulino Falls and enjoy the awakening of the surrounding nature. Experiencing the warmth of the waters, surrounded by the colours and scents typical of this land, is priceless. Summer is the best time to experience the thrill of the thermal baths at night. Imagine immersing yourself in a pool of hot water at 37 degrees, where your head and shoulders are caressed by a cooler summer breeze and the starry sky is the canvas painted by mother nature where your eyes will find rest. Thanks to the colours that paint the surrounding landscape, autumn is definitely a magical time, equal to spring, to be enveloped in this natural splendour. Close your eyes and imagine: warm colours, mild temperatures, the sound of waterfalls and the rustle of fallen leaves. Can you think of a more magical moment than this? Finally, winter, perhaps the season that invites you most to experience the connection between spirit and nature. Imagine yourself immersed in the warm waters of a spa and all around stillness and peace. An experience that will allow you to return to everyday life totally regenerated.
Spring of San Filippo
Pappasole-village
Buca delle Fate
When limestone becomes art
Hidden in the folds of the Tuscan countryside, the San Filippo springs stand like a secret sanctuary of natural beauty. Here, the element of water is transformed into an ancient art, sculpting thermal pools amidst millennial forests and rolling hills. The warm waters, rich in beneficial minerals, welcome visitors in a rejuvenating embrace, while their transparency reveals the white limestone bedrock like a living painting set in the earth. In this thermal refuge, the wild beauty of nature combines with the discreet elegance of geothermal architecture, creating an irresistible combination for those seeking refreshment and contemplation. A trip to Bagni di San Filippo is an invitation to immerse oneself not only in the thermal waters, but also in the magical atmosphere of a place where beauty is a silent song of nature.
The features
The free thermal baths of San Filippo are a jewel hidden in the hills of Tuscany, a symphony of warmth and nature that enchants visitors with its simple and authentic beauty. The hot water pools, rich in minerals, offer an enveloping sensation of well-being The surrounding landscape, enriched by centuries-old woods and travertine rocks, adds a touch of magic to the thermal experience.
Therapeutic properties
The minerals in the San Filippo thermal waters act as an elixir of health, helping to improve circulation, soothe joint pain and promote skin regeneration. The place itself, enveloped in an atmosphere of peace and serenity, amplifies the therapeutic effects, creating a space where the mind finds rest and healing.
When to go
The San Filippo Thermal Baths unveil their beauty in different ways during the different seasons, offering unique experiences all year round.
Spring: With the arrival of spring, the surrounding nature awakens in a symphony of colours and scents. The mild temperatures make this the perfect time to enjoy the lush landscape without being disturbed by high temperatures.
Summer: Summer evenings can be particularly magical, with the heat of the day slowly dissipating as you relax in the thermal waters under a starry sky. It is the ideal time to experience a relaxing and rejuvenating evening.
Autumn: Autumn colours envelop the San Filippo Thermal Baths in a golden cloak. The cool temperatures create a pleasant contrast with the warm waters, offering an enveloping and comforting experience. It is the ideal period for those seeking tranquillity and contemplation.
Winter: The San Filippo Thermal Baths also take on a magical charm during the winter. The cold contrasts with the warm waters, creating an atmosphere of cosiness. Wrapped in thermal steam, guests can enjoy the charm of the surrounding winter landscapes.
Buca delle Fate
Pappasole-village
Buca delle Fate
Why visit Buca delle Fate?
Right from the path leading to the cove, you will be immersed in an extraordinary setting. You will be surrounded by the scents, colours and flavours of the Mediterranean macchia. Under the shade of the holm oaks, you will see Etruscan remains that will capture your attention and deserve to be photographed. As you leave the scrubland, a panorama of indescribable beauty opens up: cliffs that reflect the sunlight and stand out against a blue sea that is as blue as can be. And then you will see the small beach where you can finally lie down and relax!
Where is Buca delle Fate?
Buca delle fate is located in the Gulf of Baratti, in the centre of Tuscany. Although there is a lot of confusion given the spread of this name, at least in Tuscany. Just think of the areas of Valdarno, Arezzo, Pisa and Pienza that boast one or more Buca delle Fate, which have nothing to do with the one found along the Costa degli Etruschi.
Where is the Gulf of Baratti?
This is usually the question that follows on from what was said earlier. Rightly so, not everyone is familiar with certain areas of Tuscany, small localities, which once encountered are very unpleasant to leave. This Gulf is located at the bottom of Populonia, in the territory of the municipality of Piombino, in the centre of Tuscany precisely.
How do you get to Buca della Fate?
This bay is hidden between two promontories, that of Populonia and that of Piombino. It can be reached in only two ways: on foot or by boat. As for the footpath, it must be said that there are several routes, one longer and one shorter. The longer one starts from Piombino, Calamoresca to be exact, and is 16 kilometres long. A beautiful walk that we recommend only to true lovers of trekking and nature. The other one, shorter but still beautiful, starts from Populonia and is 3.5 kilometres long.
How to get to Baratti beach?
This is the question some people ask themselves once they discover that there is a bit of a walk to reach the bay. In fact, it is more than understandable, since during the summer heat the desire to walk can be less. So yes, the solution is definitely to sit on the beach at Baratti. Fine, dark sand due to the iron deposits this land still contains, crystal-clear sea and behind it a unique and world-famous pine forest.
Where to park in Baratti?
Populonia and Baratti are often understood to be the same thing even though this is not the case. It is possible to park in Baratti to reach Buca delle Fate, but the journey takes a little longer. In fact, we recommend going early in the morning and grabbing a spot in the small car park in Populonia where the shortest path starts.
Why is this bay so fascinating?
Buca delle Fate is a very special place and a far cry from the well-known beaches along this same coast of the upper Maremma. The beach is coarse-grained, composed of pebbles and stones and surrounded by cliffs that stand out in the bluest sea there is. The shape of these large rocks is so peculiar that it catches the eye also thanks to its colour that seems to reflect that of the sun, in stark contrast to the blue of the evil and the sky blue. The bizarre shapes of the rocks are due to the incessant work of the sea and wind that constantly beat along this side of the coast. You will be fascinated by the wonder that Mother Nature has created in this enchanted place. Why do we speak of an enchanted place? Find out with us.
Fairy Hole Legend
Why is it called Fairy Hole? It is a question many people ask themselves, and indeed rightly so, since the name in itself evokes a forgotten, perhaps, but still evocative legendary story. In a distant and indefinite time, it is said that many fishermen used to approach this bay, entranced by what they saw. Every day an ever-changing spectacle presented itself before their eyes, lasting only a few seconds, so long that they thought they were in a dream. They saw mermaids, seahorses and dolphins playing carefree and told their villages all about it. A young man who was particularly intrigued by their stories, Valerio, decided to go and see for himself if what was being told was true, but on the way, the boat he was travelling on capsized and he found himself in a paradisiacal place made of seaweed and coral, populated by very young mermaids playing merrily. The fiancée, not seeing him return, went in search of her young fiancé and in desperation began to cry on the seashore. Each tear turned into a pearl when it came into contact with the dolphin that had approached to console her. A mermaid saw these precious pearls and asked the dolphin if she could have them. It was at this point that the dolphin proposed a barter: he would give the pearls to the mermaid if she would free the young fisherman. The young man was finally freed and a great feast was organised to celebrate this event
Island of Capraia
Pappasole-village
Buca delle Fate
Island of Capraia
Capraia is the third largest island in the Tuscan archipelago and the only volcanic island. A true natural and geological paradise where the colour contrast will make your visit sublime. To enjoy this contrast, it is necessary to visit Cala Rossa di Capraia. This is none other than the remains of a volcanic cone. Here you will experience the true chromatic power of nature: the red rock plunges into the clear turquoise sea.
What to do on the island
The island of Capraia, also mentioned in “Casa sul mare”, a famous poem by Eugenio Montale, is the only volcanic island in the archipelago and the third largest in terms of size. It was formed around nine million years ago and the striking red rocks bear witness to the original ancient eruptions. The island is covered by Mediterranean bush and today is at the centre of the ‘cetacean sanctuary’, immersed in Europe’s largest marine protected area. It is an autonomous municipality in the Province of Livorno and is populated by about three hundred inhabitants, who live in a well-kept centre with characteristic alleys and sloping streets. There is also the harbour, of course, and it is home to a small marina, connected to the town by a passable provincial road and a scenic road of Napoleonic origin that can only be travelled on foot. But the real pearl of the island is its coastline, characterised by inlets and cliffs washed by a crystal-clear sea. Cala della Mortola can only be reached by boat, while the other coves, such as Cala dello Zurletto, can be reached by sea or by land. Cala Rossa, instead, is what remains of an ancient volcanic cone. It is here that you can witness the most amazing contrast of the whole island: sanguine rocks reflected in the crystal clear sea! If you are interested in the wilder side, you cannot miss the western side. Here you will witness a majestic natural spectacle: cliffs eroded by the wind and lapped by the sea with a mysterious cave with two entrances in the middle are just some of the wonders you will find there! This island is certainly a paradise for divers and others. Clear seabed, crystal clear water, and many different kinds of fish: from the wrasse to the Carabiniere, from the dentex to the black sea bream, groupers, bream, scorpion fish, amberjacks, tuna, barracudas, croakers and common dolphins passing just off the coast. And who knows, maybe you will also encounter sunfish or chestnut fish or spot the fin whale or sperm whale offshore. Another activity that is sure to leave you breathless, given the shape of the island, is trekking. Walking through the Mediterranean maquis to the mountain peaks, meeting mouflons, wild rabbits, whitetails and birds of all kinds is an unforgettable experience! The walk will take you to the Stagnone, the only natural freshwater lake in the entire Archipelago, to the Piano, an ancient Roman settlement, or to the former prison, which can now be visited freely.
Capraia Island: what to see
What to see on Capraia Island depends a lot on both your interests and the time you dedicate to stopping over. However, it’s enough to search the Internet and scroll through Capraia’s photos to immediately understand what attracts you most. If you search for Capraia on Tripadvisor, you’ll get great suggestions to start your visit. Surely you will be suggested to see Cala dello Zurletto and Cala di San Francesco, but also Forte San Giorgio and many other historical and naturalistic attractions.
Of course, if you are more attracted by beaches and the naturalistic side, in addition to the 2 coves mentioned above, you cannot miss Cala della Mortola, and above all you cannot miss the opportunity to go diving in Capraia, since it holds one of the most beautiful and richest seas in the Tuscan archipelago. Do you love walking and discovering new territories? Then decide to visit Capraia on foot by taking part in one of the many excursions offered on the island and treat yourself to a taste of the delicious food cooked in at least one of these restaurants: La Garitta, il Carabottino, le Sughere. Do you love seafood cuisine combined with folklore? Then try to be on the island at the time of the Capraia squid festival, i.e. during the All Saints’ Day long weekend.
How long to stay in Capraia?
Only you can answer this question, depending on what you intend to experience of the island. You can opt for a short holiday in Capraia, even one day, or you can decide to dedicate a few more days to your stay on the island. There are not many hotels on Capraia, given its size, but it is possible to find a place at the Beppone di Capraia guesthouse, for example, perhaps booking well in advance.
Island of Gorgona
Pappasole-village
Buca delle Fate
Island of Gorgona
Gorgona, together with Pianosa, is the other island of the archipelago that until recently housed a penal colony. It was the last to be opened to the public and can now be reached by ferry from Livorno. The coast is characterised by numerous inlets. The most striking are Cala Scirocco, Cala Maestra and Cala Martina. There are also two fortifications on the island: the Torre Vecchia and the Torre Nuova.
How do I visit the island of Gorgona?
To reach the island of Gorgona, the ferry leaves from Livorno. There are departures twice a week and the ferry takes 1 hour to reach the island. If you are interested in visiting this natural heritage site, plan to get up early and be back by dinner time, because there is only one thing to go and one thing to come back. And if you have thought about sleeping on the island, be warned that this is not possible, because as it houses a prison, Gorgona has no hotels.
What to do on the island
Gorgona is the other island of the archipelago that until recently hosted a penal colony. It was the last to be opened to the public and now accessible by ferry from Livorno. The coast is characterized by numerous inlets. The most suggestive are Cala Scirocco, Cala Maestra and Cala Martina. On the island there are also two fortifications: the Old Tower and the New Tower.
