Photo © Tomek

A rejuvenating dip in the magical waters of Val d'Orcia

A relaxing stay at Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo

Val d'Orcia is the incredible result of a close bond between nature and man, in a perfect combination of barren land and rolling hills covered with vineyards and olive groves, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The richness of this land continues in its natural elements: thermal waters that have shaped the area since ancient times and are perfect for a rejuvenating vacation.

Bagno Vignoni - Credit: John Weiss

The Etruscans already knew about the healing properties of the Bagno Vignoni springs and, later on, it was the Romans who exploited their beneficial properties. A large rectangular pool is the enchanting backdrop that adorns the historic village center: this is where the thermal waters gush out and where you will find the main monuments, including the Colonnade of Santa Caterina and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. At night, the vapors rising from Piazza delle Sorgenti embrace the town in a very atmospheric blanket of mist.

Baths and thermal treatments are available in Bagno Vignoni at the three accommodation facilities in the village: The Terme Spa & Resort - which is located in the main square - the Terme Hotel La Posta - with outdoor and indoor pools - and the Terme Hotel Adler - with the enchanting Grotta Salina (Salt Cave).

A visit to the nearby town of San Quirico d'Orcia is a must; this village on the ancient Via Francigena contains treasures waiting to be discovered, like the beautiful 12th-century Collegiate Church and the 16th-century Horti Leonini gardens.

The Natural Thermal Baths of Bagni San Filippo

On the slopes of Mount Amiata there is a small thermal center, where sulfurous, carbonate-rich waters flow down to the valley and form limestone waterfalls in the shade of dense woods. Bagni San Filippo, in the municipality of Castiglione d'Orcia, is characterized by the so-called Balena Bianca, a cascade of thermal water that, over the years, has created spectacular pure white limestone deposits. Bathing in the vicinity or climbing the waterfall are not allowed, but you can find pools to dive into along the path that runs alongside the bed of the torrent, where you can enjoy total relaxation.