Soak Up Tuscany with Terra & Tu at Terme di Saturnia
At Terra & Tu, wellness manifests in a myriad of ways. It can take the form of nourishing your body through a morning yoga session by the pool, nurturing your mind through a cultural tour of a hilltop village, and nourishing your senses with a sip (or several) of Tuscany’s Sangiovese wines. In our years of travel and hospitality, we’ve discovered that wellness is not limited to one definition, nor should it be. That is why we encourage our travelers to indulge to the fullest—and what better way to start or end your journey with us than soaking in the hot springs of Terme di Saturnia!
Situated on nearly 300 acres of natural parkland in Tuscany, Terme di Saturnia is an oasis amid rolling hills of green and gold. This wellness resort is famed for its private thermal pools and opulent services, characteristics that have garnered international acclaim. As a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World, Terme di Saturnia is at the vanguard of the Made in Italy Historical Brand Association, which proudly promotes Italian customs and traditions around the world. They are also registered as a “Historical Trademark of National Interest” and the only five-star hotel brand recognized by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development.
The resort was constructed in the 19th century, but the natural spring on which it was built has been flowing for 3,000 years. The water can be traced back to an ancient volcano called Mount Amiata, which last erupted some 300,000 years ago. Though now technically extinct, the thermal activity below is still very much alive. As water travels down the rocky slopes, some penetrate through fissures in Earth’s crust and are heated by magma. For forty years, the bubbling water flows underground, where it reemerges at a rate of 130 gallons per second and a constant temperature of 98.6°F. Every four hours, the spring is renewed as fresh water filters through.
Saturnia—previously known as Aurinia until 30B.C.—takes its name from the Roman god Saturn (or Saturnus). According to ancient mythology, Saturn grew frustrated with the humans for engaging in constant war, so he struck Earth with a thunderbolt, releasing an infinite supply of healing waters to pacify the masses. During the Bronze Age, the Etruscan people were the first to enjoy these pristine waters. Captivated by its medicinal properties, they created a “holy bath” to praise the Gods. The mystical spring soon captured the attention of the Romans, who, in 183B.C., colonized Saturnia to capitalize on the natural resource. They went on to build what was known as Italy’s first public bath in the city center.
From Saturnia’s spring, the water travels down the thermal stream, Gorello, where it eventually cascades over white travertine limestone rocks, creating open-air iridescent-blue “pools.” The Terme di Saturnia falls—also known as “Cascate del Mulino” or “Cascate del Gorello,” for the old mill that sits beside it—is a popular designation for visitors all over the world. Bathers soak and breathe in the vapor steam for beneficial cardio-circulatory, respiratory and musculoskeletal effects. Alternatively, some exfoliate their skin with the mineral-rich clay that lines the pools’ walls.
For those looking for the most exclusive experience, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the cerulean-blue waters of the private hot spring located at the center of the resort. Comprised of hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, sulfate ions and bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium ions, the water’s rich minerals perform wonders for the body and mind. Dark green algae (bioplankton) are carried to the surface by bubbles from below, and as the plant breaks apart, it releases extraordinary antioxidant benefits. The indoor spa and boutique shops carry lotions, scrubs and masks that magnify the algae’s qualities, leaving your skin bright, soft, and renewed. For those who wish to cool off, make your way to various other pools on the property ranging in temperature from hot to cold. There is fresh water for drinking and plenty of towels and chairs too.
The time at the spa is yours to spend as you wish, with morning yoga sessions, massages, and other personal treatments. Our staff can make individual arrangements to take guests to Cascate del Mulino, just around the corner, or to visit the village for shopping or an authentic Tuscan meal. Hikes, golfing, and bicycle rides are also available.
Our deluxe en suite rooms feature an open plan with a sitting area and a walk-in closet. Interiors are modern and romantic, with bespoke paintings and soft furnishings splashed with the colors of the Maremma countryside: sky blue, sunlit yellow, and the many varied hues of the natural springs. Organic materials like fresh linen and raw wood are incorporated at every opportunity to keep you in harmony with nature. Thoughtful touches include a coffee machine, a robe and slippers, and complimentary skincare products made with Saturnia bioplankton.
Breakfast is served buffet-style, and guests are invited to dine on the patio in their robes and slippers as they watch the morning sun illuminate the spring’s rising vapor. Fresh fruit, cheese, yogurt, and a glorious serving of raw honeycomb complement the chef-run omelet bar. Return to 1919 Restaurant for an elegant dining experience and taste sun-ripened harvests and fresh produce from the Tyrrhenian seas to the Chiana Valley. Your server will share the specials, which may be turbot from Porto Santo Stefano, truffles hunted in the Tuscan hills or a local cheesemaker’s Maremma Pecorino.
Before bed, order a nightcap at IL Bar, known as Saturnia’s ‘Drink and Food Library,’ and cozy up with a new book, or invite your friends for a game of cards. Enjoy lunch in this light-filled space or on the outside deck beside the spring. Crushed ice juices, tisanes, and chilled spumante are served all day.
Saturnia Spa and Resort is a dream come true for visitors across the world, but for Terra & Tu travelers, it offers something extra special. Join us on one of our Tuscany Wellness Adventures and discover all that Tuscany has to offer, from the cascading hot springs of Saturnia to the famed vineyards of Montalcino.
