A hot spring in the middle of the village
The centre of Bagno Vignoni is not a classic stone square, but a huge 16th century stone pool filled with thermal water at around 49°C. Here, the springs gush directly from the ground and the water evaporates into the surrounding area - the village is often enveloped in a gentle steam, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.
The original pool (called Piazza delle Sorgenti) is no longer used for bathing, but the love but the surrounding houses offer a modern thermal experience with views of the Tuscan hills.
A place loved by saints and poets alike
Bagno Vignone has a history dating back to Roman times. The spa was visited by St Catherine of Siena, Lorenzo de' Medici and Francesco Petrarca. The water from the springs was considered medicinal - it helped against rheumatism and skin diseases.
And even today, when you walk past the old stone pool, you can feel that this is a place with a soul.peaceful, quiet, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees, far from the busy tourist routes.
Where to swim today
If you want to experience the thermal water for yourself, you can visit:
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Piscina Termale di Bagno Vignoni - a public pool overlooking the Val d'Orcia.
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Adler Thermae Spa & Resort - a luxury spa hotel with outdoor pools that also offers day passes.
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Parco Mulini below the village - remnants of old riverbeds where water flows into stone pools (free entry, but swimming officially forbidden).
What else to visit in the area
Bagno Vignoni lies in the UNESCO-listed Val d'Orcia valley- ideal for trips by car or bike.
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San Quirico d'Orcia - a historic town with the beautiful gardens of Horti Leonini.
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Pienza - the "ideal Renaissance town" and home of the famous pecorino cheese.
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Rocca d'Orcia - a romantic ruin with panoramic views over the countryside.
Practical information
The best time to visit is spring and autumn (it can be hot and busy in summer). Bagno Vignoni is best reached by car, the car park is above the village.
Swimming in the main square is forbidden - the water is protected as a historical monument.
