An unmissable stop for anyone visiting Tuscany, Saturnia is a charming and distinctive village nestled in the heart of the Maremma. It rises on a plateau overlooking the Albegna Valley, from which it dominates the captivating landscape of the Grosseto hinterland. Located along the route of the ancient Via Clodia—the merchant road built between the Via Cassia and the Via Aurelia that connected Rome with the Etruscan colonies—Saturnia is a true treasure chest of history and art.
The village still preserves valuable traces of its past. A visit to the urban archaeological area, identified as ancient Aurinia, is highly recommended. Here you can see the remains of the Roman city walls dating back to the 2nd century BC. Originally, the walls featured four access gates, of which only the main one, Porta Romana, survives today. Other highlights not to be missed include the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, home to notable works of art; the Aldobrandeschi Fortress, dating back to the late 12th century; and the Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts mainly from the Etruscan period.
The village’s main attraction, however, is undoubtedly its thermal baths—a complex of sulphur-rich hot springs where water flows at nearly 500 liters per second at a constant temperature of 37°C (98.6°F), allowing for pleasant and beneficial bathing all year round.
After beginning its journey deep within Mount Amiata, the water takes around 40 years to complete its underground path before emerging at Saturnia. It is renowned for its therapeutic properties, particularly for skin conditions, respiratory ailments, and musculoskeletal disorders. According to one of the many local legends, the thermal springs arose at the exact spot where the god Saturn, angered with humankind, hurled a lightning bolt that created a crater from which this magical water began to flow.
The Oltremare apartments are located about 70 km from the Saturnia Hot Springs—an ideal distance for a day trip. Staying in Principina a Mare means combining the relaxation of a seaside holiday with the rejuvenating wellness of thermal waters. Imagine spending your morning at the beach, enjoying a soothing soak in the warm sulphur springs in the afternoon, and returning in the evening to your apartment just steps from the sea. Contact us for a quote and start planning your sea-and-wellness holiday in the Maremma!