What is the difference between the springs of Saturnia and Petriolo

Saturnia, they are travertine terraced pools, while at Petriolo you bathe in small pools at the edge of the Farma stream: both natural sites are free, but the setting and the temperature differ. At Saturnia, the water from the Cascate del Mulino is generally around 35 to 37 °C. The pools are very photogenic, but the place is well known and can be crowded, especially during the day and during the holidays. The bottom is slippery; bring water shoes and check the parking conditions on site.

At Petriolo, the spring comes out at about 43 °C, then the water mixes with that of the stream: depending on the pool, it can therefore be more or less hot. The atmosphere is wilder, with less developed pools and the remains of ancient baths near the river; come with a towel, water and a change of clothes, without counting on the comfort of a spa facility. Both can be visited all year round, but winter makes the contrast with the cool air pleasant; in summer, the heat and the crowds can make swimming less enjoyable. By car, allow about 78 km and 1 h 25 between the two, depending on the route and traffic. For terraced pools, choose Saturnia; for a bath at the edge of a stream, Petriolo.