Thanks to its unique geological composition, Italy is home to many wonderful hot springs. These magical waters are thought to have many health benefits, with a high sulphur and mineral content, and the Italians have been bathing in them for generations to cure all kinds of ailments from skin conditions to high blood pressure. They also make a very relaxing day out, especially on those chillier days.

Italy’s best natural springs

Thermal baths in Italy offer an oasis of relaxation and wellness surrounded by nature. This article explores the best thermal destinations, where you can regenerate in the healing waters and enjoy an extraordinary natural landscape. So, get your swimmers at the ready and let’s go and explore Italy’s best hot springs.

 Saturnia: a gift from the God’s

Located in the Maremma hills of Tuscany, Saturnia hot springs are an enchanting collection of calcareous pools filled with sulphurous waters that can reach a dreamy 37C, surrounded by white boulders and waterfalls. These thermal baths make an enchanting day for the whole family.

Bullicame: warming waters surrounded nature

Dante compared this large round crater-like pool and its sulphurous waters to hell itself, but a dip in these waters is a truly relaxing and warming experience. Set in pristine nature near the historic city of Viterbo in Lazio, a day out here is a dream.

San Pellegrino Therme: soak up the elegance and beauty

This opulent and romantic spa is located in the majestic valley of Brembana and its various baths are housed in wonderful Art Nouveau buildings. The thermal baths in this decadent town have been popular for centuries, and this spa has made the most of the waters and created a truly decadent location that offer all manner of treatments.

Petriolo: ancient healing waters

These hot springs sit between the borders of Monticiano and Civitella Paganico, near Florence. Remnants of the ancient thermal baths built by the Romans can still be seen surrounding the sulphurous waters. These healing waters, that gush at a delightful 43C, contain high levels of hydrogen sulphide meaning the therapeutic properties are very potent.

Poseidon gardens: island waters

Located on the bay of Citara on Ischia, Poseidon Gardens is complex of 22 man-made thermal pools. The waters are excellent for many ailments and there is the option to have personalized treatment sessions with experts. The waters contain iodine salts, magnesium, iron and radon, which can have serios therapeutic health benefits.

Fosso Bianco: year round bathing

These thermal baths in Italy are set in gorgeous woodland outside town of Bagni San Filippo and are a magical place to be enjoyed all year round. Follow the path that runs along the river until you reach the ‘White Whale’ which is an enormous calcium formation, and this is where the cold water from the river mixes with the hot spring water creating beautiful turquoise blue pools.

Piscine Carletti: immerse yourself in nature

Set in the delightful Provincia di Viterbo, the thermal baths of Carletti are surrounded by lush green vegetation and make the perfect setting for a relaxing day soaking in the waters. If you visit in the winter months the hot waters make a great respite from the chilly days.

Parco dei Mulini: a cultural point of interest

A picturesque and unspoiled location, the thermal baths are located in the region of Borgnone and run through the delightful medieval village. With beautifully preserved water mills, country walks and leisurely picnics, a trip to these warming waters won’t disappoint.

Bagni di Bormio: 3 thermal wonders

The medieval town of Bagni in Lombardy is home to 3 main thermal water spots: Bagni Nuovi, Bagni Vecchi and Terme di Bormio. Each location offers soothing respite for winter sports enthusiasts, with waters reaching around 40C. Bagni Vecchi is set in an ancient Roman tunnel with panoramic views over the Dolomites.

Thermal baths of Sirmione: warm up in nature

 Acqua di Sirmione, sulphurois-iodine filled waters, are well loved for their healing properties and come from the ancient Bojola spring. The thermal baths are dotted around the picturesque historical seaside town of Sirmione, so you can pick and choose which you prefer to relax in.

A visit to any of these thermal baths in Italy means quality some time spend in nature which is a wonderfully restorative experience, however you may need some extra skin care products. At Fiumicino Airport you can buy an excellent selection of beauty products online at Shop & Fly: order online and pick up directly at the Duty Free checkouts, taking advantage of the 10% discount. From excellent sun screens to moisturizers and body oils you can ensure to take care of your skin while basking in the great outdoors.

A visit to some of the hot springs in Italy are a must for any visitor looking for a regenerative, relaxing experience surrounded by stunning scenery. Let the relaxation commence!

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