You may or may not know this but Tuscany is actually home to quite a number of naturally occurring hot springs. If you are interested in spas and relaxation, it is an excellent holiday destination and, best of all, some of these hot springs are free and open readily to the public, making Tuscany also a rather affordable spa destination. They can be visited without purchasing a ticket or planning in advance, whenever you want throughout the day (or night) or year. We have been talking about these incredible destinations in this series this week and have compiled a list of some of the best of them for you to browse. In this last post, we have more of our picks of excellent and free hot springs around the region.
5. San Casciano dei Bagni
Bordering with Umbria is San Casciano dei Bagni, which boasts 42 thermal springs gushing out at an average temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. Listed as one of the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia (“Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”), it has an incredible historic Old Town, excellent food and has been awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag) for tourism excellence. The waters here have been used for thousands of years for their thermal properties, containing sulphur, calcium and fluorides, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and have a peeling effect which regenerates and hydrates the skin. Additionally, through inhalation they act on the respiratory system and have mucous and anti-inflammatory effects. For a perfectly relaxing trip in pretty surroundings, just find a vacation rental in Florence and spend a day (or two!) in this stunning little town.
6. Rapolano
Close to the borders between Chianti and Val di Chiana, Rapolano Terme is a little town surrounded by the marvellous Crete Senesi that is well-known for its hot springs. The hot springs have actually lead to the area becoming both a spa destination and a location of medical treatments and research. Founded by the Romans, the area boasts two ancient thermal baths - Antica Querciolaia and Terme di San Giovanni - both open year round. However, Rapolano Terme is also known for its cultural endeavours and is home to a literary prize, an olive oil festival, a rich theatre program and the Festival di Rapolano each July. For culture and relaxation, just find a vacation rental in Chianti and head to this little gem of a town.
There are other great hot springs that you can access for free in Tuscany so be sure to read back on to the rest of this series!
