Italy (and Tuscany, in particular) is a destination that has been renowned for spa breaks since ancient times due to the number of thermal springs located throughout the country. Those looking to properly unwind, relax, and soak their worries away, therefore, should book a villa in Tuscany as they will have several thermal spa towns to choose from during their time in the region. Among these, one that we have not mentioned at length yet is the pretty town of San Casciano dei Bagni.
Nestled in the famously beautiful and iconic Tuscan scenery of rolling green hills and golden valleys that distinguishes the Val d’Orcia as one of the most idyllic parts of the world, the town of San Casciano dei Bagni has famed waters. These thermal waters have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic properties and attracted aristocrats from all over Europe in search of cures and relief for all sorts of ailments for centuries. This flow of wealthy visitors into San Casciano dei Bagni over time has also left a visual mark on the pretty town, endowing some buildings with elaborately decorative and especially lovely exteriors, further adding to her charms!
Until the last few decades, these same waters were also used for domestic purposes in town. Today, however, in order to access the renowned waters of San Casciano dei Bagni there are two main options: the free and traditional bathing options at the Bagno Grande (Great Bath) or the Bagno Bassolo or the day spa at the 5-star Fonteverde Tuscan Resort & Spa. Both are perfect for dreamy spa days and give two different price points and styles of spa days to choose from – free ancient bath complexes for those looking to simply soak their cares away or an elaborate hotel day spa with all of the treatments, bells, and whistles with a price tag to match for those looking to treat themselves.
The Bagno Grande, fed by the natural springs in town to the "vasconi" (big basins), is located close to the main square of the village. Simply head from the square, through the exercise path in the woods (equipped for exercise lovers and anyone looking to really care for their bodies in all aspects while away on holiday), and you will arrive at the vasconi, a series of ancient baths that are open to everyone. Here, you can sink in to the pools no matter the time of the year, as water temperatures constantly remain at around 39° Celsius.
These waters contain sulphur, calcium, and fluorides. This means that they boast anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them ideal for those looking to ease sore muscles or tired bodies. Furthermore, when inhaled, they also have positive benefits on the respiratory system due to their mucous and anti-inflammatory effects. For those who care about skincare, the waters also have a peeling effect, which promotes regeneration and hydration – and all of this for free!
Bagno Bossolo is another old bath complex located in the woods that can be accessed for free, 24-7, and has pools where you can soak in those same therapeutic waters as well as picnic tables nearby. So, pack your swimsuit and towel, some drinks (it’s important to stay hydrated when in hot springs), some snacks, and visit one or both bath complexes for a free day out at the spa in the gorgeous surroundings of the Tuscan countryside.
However, if you want a bit more of a taste of luxury, head to Fonteverde and the day spa there, where you’ll find a gorgeous old 17th century villa built by the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de' Medici himself in order to make the most of the beneficial properties of the hot springs. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, with 7 thermal pools to choose from, more than 100 different treatments (from massages to facials and beyond), and all of the ingredients for a total escape from reality, it is a dream spa destination.
So, browse our vacation rentals in the Orcia Valley and villas with pools in Tuscany and come unwind in the most beautiful of settings and one of the most incredible spa towns in the region, San Casciano dei Bagni!
