The Cascate del Mulino waterfalls are located inland in the Alta Maremma, 80 km south-east of our flats in Via di Mezzo 2. From the coast it takes about 1 h 20′ by car: follow the Aurelia road to Albinia, then the SR 74 through the Manciano plateau before descending to the village of Saturnia, where the thermal pools open up next to the provincial road.
The Cascate del Mulino are travertine pools fed by a constant sulphur spring at 37 °C: a natural whirlpool open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and completely free of charge. The contrast between hot water and sparkling air, especially in autumn and winter, creates scenic vapours that make the experience even more evocative.
What to do on site
- Regenerating bath in natural pools (bring dark swimwear: sulphur can stain).
- Paying spa (300 m further upstream): pools, mud baths and spa treatments with daily admission.
- Walk to the spring along the path alongside the stream; temperature and water flow have been constant for millennia.
Experiences to match
- Slow food lunch in Manciano (10 km): pappardelle with wild boar sauce + glass of Morellino di Scansano.
- Tasting in Scansano on the way back: wine shop with vertical tasting of Morellino Riserva.
- Stop in the medieval village of Montemerano, listed among the most beautiful in Italy, to admire the frescoes of San Giorgio.
Practical Info
- Paid municipal car park 200 m from the falls; basic changing rooms, no lockers.
- Needed: non-slip slippers, bathrobe, waterproof bag and wet suit bag.
- Best time: dawn or after 7 p.m. in summer to avoid crowds; in low season, attendance is minimal all day.
- Photos and video footage allowed, but always maintain respect for other swimmers.
