Unusual Places in Italy: The Mulino Waterfalls

Cascate del Mulino are rated among Italy’s most beautiful hot springs – and they’re free. 

Located in the Maremma area of southern Tuscany, they’re part of the world-famous Terme di Saturnia. 

The warm water (37.5°C year round) that flows from the spring has been enjoyed and appreciated since Etruscan times, and the Romans built the first public bath in history in Aurinia, the center of Saturnia. 

Originating from Mount Amiata, once a volcano, sulphureous waters flow into the large waterfall powered by the Gorello thermal stream. The water that falls has dug many pools in the travertine rock over the centuries, leading to the creation of natural puddles where people can bathe. 

The contrast between the pure white of the travertine and the thermal blue of the water, as seen amid the sulphureous vapors and against the background of the Maremma hills, is quite the show.   

People who suffer from respiratory, cardiovascular, muscle, joint, digestion or blood pressure problems are said to benefit from the water’s various minerals. 

The waters are also a natural exfoliate and are sure to relax body and mind.

The Cascate del Mulino are very popular in summer and can get very crowded; if you visit between June and September, plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon (you will enjoy a spectacular sunset). The best time to visit is late spring and early autumn.

The waterfalls are about two hours and 20 minutes from Rome and three hours from Florence.