When it is cold outside, few things compare with a soak in warm water. For anyone looking for a quiet break or an atmospheric place to discover, thermal spas always have something to offer.
The thermal baths of Central Italy, in particular, combine the therapeutic properties of thermal waters with the natural surroundings of Tuscany, Lazio, Umbria and the Marche.
The best thermal spas in Central Italy
Thermal baths have a long history in Italy, going back to ancient times, when they were used for their healing properties. The ancient Romans were among the first to recognise and make use of the benefits of thermal water, building many large bath complexes that served both for body care and as social and cultural meeting places.
Today, these places are still appreciated for their therapeutic properties and as places to unwind. Here are some thermal spas in Central Italy that are particularly appealing in autumn.
Terme di Saturnia, Tuscany
Also called the Cascatelle del Mulino, these baths are a good choice for a two-day thermal spa break. Saturnia is well known for its sulphurous waters, which emerge naturally at 37.5°C. The thermal pools are also free to access, with a striking view of the small waterfalls formed by the Gorello stream.
Often associated with treatment for dermatological and cardiovascular problems, the Terme di Saturnia are in a frazione, or hamlet, of Manciano and provide a peaceful setting for a proper break.
Terme dei Papi, Lazio
Among Lazio’s most attractive thermal spas are these baths near Viterbo, associated with the Bagno del Papa, or Pope’s Bath. Terme dei Papi has a large monumental pool, with waters ranging between 65°C and 15°C, waterfalls intended to ease neck tension, and a garden that has recently been refurbished and expanded.
Viterbo also has free thermal baths at San Sisto, around 8 km from the city.
Terme Francescane di Spello, Umbria
Among Umbria’s most appealing thermal spas, the one at Spello uses water from the San Felice spring, which remains at a constant temperature of 13.5°C. The thermal water at Spello, one of the best towns to visit near Perugia, is classified as cold, moderately mineralised, sulphurous, bicarbonate-calcium and alkaline-earth water.
This water is used in dermatological and rheumatic treatments, while the facility also provides physiotherapy treatments.
Terme di Acquasanta, Marche
Set in a mountainous area in the province of Ascoli Piceno, these thermal baths are noted for their sulphurous and saline waters. They are indicated for respiratory problems, rhinogenic deafness and rheumatic and joint conditions.
For anyone considering a relaxing thermal spa stay, the Acquasanta facility is particularly recognised for the quality of its treatments, including mud treatments, baths and whirlpool baths.
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Terme Santa Lucia, Tolentino, Marche
This facility stands in the Santa Lucia district, just outside Tolentino in the province of Macerata. It has four main areas focused on care and wellbeing: a thermal centre, a rehabilitation centre, a beauty centre and a medical area.
Tolentino’s mineral thermal water is high in calcium bicarbonate and is considered suitable for urinary tract conditions and metabolic diseases. The baths are open from April to December, between 07:30 and 11:30, and from 15:00 until 19:00. Booking is required for entry.
Thermal spas accessible to people with disabilities
Central Italy has thermal facilities suited to people with disabilities, without architectural barriers. Examples include:
- Terme di Saturnia: the thermal park is accessible to people with disabilities, who are also entitled to reduced entry rates.
- Terme di Montepulciano: the facility in Montepulciano, in the province of Siena, has reduced rates for people with disabilities through agreements with the Italian National Health Service.
Visiting Central Italy’s thermal spas with children
Thermal spas in autumn have special family packages that include activities for children and services intended to keep the whole family entertained. They can be especially useful in winter, when the baths provide a warm break from the cold.
Some thermal facilities in Chianciano and Montecatini have family packages and promotions, colourful areas for younger children, and special evenings with princesses, superheroes and fairy-tale characters.
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