While it may be news to some that Tuscany is one of the best spa destinations in the world, we have written extensively about the different thermal springs, spa towns, and spa complexes located across the region in the past. In fact, there are plenty of different options to choose from and one could even go on a spa town tour, if they wanted to, while spending time in Tuscany. However, if you have found a luxury villa in Siena and are looking to go on a spa day while staying in the province, then we recommend a visit to Bagni di Petriolo.
Famous for its thermal springs since the time of the Ancient Romans and with awareness of the healing benefits of the waters dating back as far as 1200AD, Bagni di Petriolo has long since attracted visitors who come to imbibe and soak in her waters. Throughout the centuries, the town has even drawn some particularly famous and high-profile figures from all over – including popes, cardinals, the Medici, the Malatesta family of Pesaro, the family of the Duke of Urbino, and the Gonzaga family of Mantua – such was its reputation.
Famous for its thermal springs since the time of the Ancient Romans and with awareness of the healing benefits of the waters dating back as far as 1200AD, Bagni di Petriolo has long since attracted visitors who come to imbibe and soak in her waters. Throughout the centuries, the town has even drawn some particularly famous and high-profile figures from all over – including popes, cardinals, the Medici, the Malatesta family of Pesaro, the family of the Duke of Urbino, and the Gonzaga family of Mantua – such was its reputation.
Located along the River Farma, framed by woods and hills, between the Val di Merse and the Maremma, in a beautifully diverse and well-protected part of the Tuscan countryside with nature reserves and incredibly lovely landscapes surrounding, and well away from tourist crowds, Bagni di Petriolo offers the perfect oasis of calm in which one can really get away from it all and relax. Come enjoy the baths and while you're in the area be sure to take in and to explore the surrounding natural majesty in which you will find excellent hiking routes and the gorgeous Nature Reserve of Basso Merse and incredible manmade tourist attractions such as the legendary Abbey of San Galgano (with its sword in the stone) and wonderfully picturesque historic towns such as Monticiano, Murlo, and Civitella Paganico.
Bagni di Petriolo has various options for those looking to enjoy the thermal waters for which it is known; there are two wellness centres and direct access to thermal pools located along the River Farma. At the former, there will be other services and treatments such as massages, skincare treatments and more for those who want to enjoy a full spa day, while at the latter, one can bathe in the waters for free. The free thermal pools, as they are just along the river and open to the public free of charge, can get very busy and there is limited capacity. Plus, as with any public bathing facility, like beaches, it has been known for crowds to be less than conscientious in how they dispose of rubbish after spending time in the area. However, most of the time, this is not much of an issue so, if you manage to time it right and get to have a dip in the thermal pools, you won't have anything else to worry about.
No matter what option you go for, you will be able to enjoy the 43°C waters of Bagni di Petriolo, rich in hydrogen sulphide, free carbon dioxide, calcium, fluorine, chloride ions, sulphate, and hydrogen carbonate, which are not only pleasant and relaxing to enjoy but also boast multiple therapeutic properties. These properties include: reducing muscle stiffness, pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties useful in treating osteoarthritis, decongestant properties useful in treating respiratory conditions, and more.
So, if you're looking for a spa experience while you spend time in the Siena area, then look no further than the lesser-known gem that is Bagni di Petriolo!
Bagni di Petriolo has various options for those looking to enjoy the thermal waters for which it is known; there are two wellness centres and direct access to thermal pools located along the River Farma. At the former, there will be other services and treatments such as massages, skincare treatments and more for those who want to enjoy a full spa day, while at the latter, one can bathe in the waters for free. The free thermal pools, as they are just along the river and open to the public free of charge, can get very busy and there is limited capacity. Plus, as with any public bathing facility, like beaches, it has been known for crowds to be less than conscientious in how they dispose of rubbish after spending time in the area. However, most of the time, this is not much of an issue so, if you manage to time it right and get to have a dip in the thermal pools, you won't have anything else to worry about.
No matter what option you go for, you will be able to enjoy the 43°C waters of Bagni di Petriolo, rich in hydrogen sulphide, free carbon dioxide, calcium, fluorine, chloride ions, sulphate, and hydrogen carbonate, which are not only pleasant and relaxing to enjoy but also boast multiple therapeutic properties. These properties include: reducing muscle stiffness, pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties useful in treating osteoarthritis, decongestant properties useful in treating respiratory conditions, and more.
So, if you're looking for a spa experience while you spend time in the Siena area, then look no further than the lesser-known gem that is Bagni di Petriolo!
Photo credit: Raimond Spekking / CC BY-SA 4.0
