Tuscany · Monticiano (on the border with Civitella Paganico)
Petriolo free hot springs
- Temperatureabout 43 °C at the source; cooler in the pools mixed with the Farma stream
- WaterSulphurous
- CostFree (next to it there are separate private paid spas).
- Opening timesFree area along the stream, with no opening hours according to the sources we consulted.
About Petriolo free hot springs
The Petriolo hot springs are a little gem hidden in the Basso Merse Nature Reserve, in a wooded valley between the provinces of Siena and Grosseto. Here thermal water rises at around 43 °C and flows along the banks of the Farma stream, where it mixes with the cool river water. The result is a series of natural pools at different temperatures, so you can choose between a very hot soak and a milder one simply by moving a few metres.
The area has been known since the Middle Ages: you can still see the remains of the old walls of the fortified spa complex. Next to the free pools there are private paid spas, but the area along the stream is free. The most distinctive spot is the so-called Fungo Bianco, a white rock with an opening in the middle from which the hot water flows.
To get there, leave the car near the spa buildings and continue on foot along the Farma for about fifteen minutes. The path isn't difficult, but the ground along the river can be uneven and slippery. There are no changing rooms, showers or bars: bring everything you need and, above all, take your rubbish away with you.
Petriolo has a reputation for being wilder and more discreet than Saturnia, but in recent years it has become very busy at weekends. If you're looking for peace and quiet, aim for weekdays or the evening. Some sources say access is free at night too: if so, you'll need a torch and great care along the stream.
It's worth mentioning that there has been talk in the past of the area possibly being privatised: before you go, have a look at local news or the websites of the municipalities of Monticiano and Civitella Paganico. The water is sulphurous and leaves a lingering smell; avoid silver jewellery and remember that the hottest pools are not suitable for small children or people with blood pressure problems.
Access, opening times and rules
Status: Open. The sources we checked describe free access.
- Type of access
- Free
- Cost
- Free (next to it there are separate private paid spas).
- Opening times
- Free area along the stream, with no opening hours according to the sources we consulted.
- Rules and warnings
- No soap and no rubbish. The pools are on the edge of a nature reserve: respect the plants and wildlife.
- Open at night
- Yes
- Suitable for children
- Not recommended
Getting there and parking
Head for Bagni di Petriolo, between Siena and Grosseto, in the Basso Merse Nature Reserve. Past the private spas, a path along the Farma stream leads in about a quarter of an hour to the free pools and the spring known as the Fungo Bianco (White Mushroom).
- Parking
- Parking near the spa buildings; check any rules on site.
- Reachable by car
- Yes (possibly with a short walk)
- Coordinates
43.07989, 11.29217
Tips for your visit
- Best time to goWeekdays and evenings; all year round thanks to the hot water.
- What to bringRiver shoes, a towel, dry clothes, drinking water.
- CrowdsHigh at weekends, quieter during the week.
Before you go, read our safety tips for natural hot pools.
Where to stay nearby
Places to stay near Petriolo free hot springs
To enjoy the springs at dawn or in the evening, when they are quieter, it pays to stay nearby. Look for hotels, B&Bs and farm stays in and around Monticiano.
See places to stay in MonticianoAffiliate links: if you book, we earn a small commission
Map
Free Small fee To be checked / closed
Nearby hot springs
Tuscany · San Quirico d'Orcia
Bagno Vignoni - Parco dei Mulini pool
about 27 km as the crow flies
Tuscany · Castelnuovo di Val di Cecina
Sasso Pisano - thermal pools and washhouses
about 36 km as the crow flies
Tuscany · Castiglione d'Orcia
Bagni San Filippo - Fosso Bianco and Balena Bianca
about 37 km as the crow flies
Tuscany · Colle di Val d'Elsa
Le Caldane di Gracciano
about 37 km as the crow flies
Frequently asked questions
Is Petriolo free hot springs free to visit?
Yes, according to the sources we checked, access is free. Free (next to it there are separate private paid spas).
How hot is the water?
About 43 °C at the source; cooler in the pools mixed with the Farma stream. Type of water: Sulphurous.
Can you bathe at night?
Yes, according to our sources it is accessible at night too. Free area along the stream, with no opening hours according to the sources we consulted. Bring a torch and move carefully.
How do you get there and where can you park?
Head for Bagni di Petriolo, between Siena and Grosseto, in the Basso Merse Nature Reserve. Past the private spas, a path along the Farma stream leads in about a quarter of an hour to the free pools and the spring known as the Fungo Bianco (White Mushroom). Parking: Parking near the spa buildings; check any rules on site.
Is it suitable for children?
We don't recommend it for young children, because of the water temperature, the type of access or safety.
When is the best time to go?
Weekdays and evenings; all year round thanks to the hot water. Crowds: High at weekends, quieter during the week.
Sources and checks
Last checked: . Main source: travel.thewom.it. Other sources: greenme.it, italytraveller.com, siviaggia.it.
Conditions at free hot springs change often. Have more recent news? Let us know.