Saturnia Tuscany Hotel & Spa ★★★★

The Tuscan countryside really is a constant source of delight and inspiration. Every time I see the gentle hills dotted with slim cypresses and olives, vineyards and terracotta roofs, villas with their classic Italian country architecture, I am reminded that this is the countryside of masters such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Giotto. On this occasion we were in the Grosseto hills, travelling to a classic typical country villa nestled among slopes and greenery, in the warm earth colours of terracotta so typical of the region.

When we got closer we could see a beautifully landscaped garden with curving stone-lined paths leading down to the pool. The pool is on a natural raised terrace and has wide open views over the rolling hills and lush green countryside. The rooms we had were lovely, elegantly furnished and with all modern conveniences; but, happily, I did not make use of the Wi-Fi even once, as I had been persuaded to leave my technology at home. Definitely part of the answer to too much stress! My room had a balcony to sit and gaze out at that lovely view; it was perfect.

All of the staff were really outstanding; always friendly and obliging, nothing was too much trouble, whatever the situation. We were even welcome to shower in the Spa after we had checked out on our last day, after a final visit to the thermal springs. We went to the springs the next day and it was an amazing experience to see the waterfalls rush into pools carved into the rocks by centuries of rushing water, making a natural spa where the water is warm and the view is spectacular. The water is more than warm – it’s a constant 37°C and comes from underground, full of sulphur and minerals. The waters are said to have been curing ailments since Roman times. It is an unforgettable experience to sit in the natural rock pools with the sounds of the waterfall rushing around you and looking out on the Tuscan countryside.

Refreshed and invigorated, we returned to the hotel for dinner. It was warm enough to sit out on the terrace in the open air and admire the outlined hills and starry sky whilst enjoying our dinner. I tried the pappardelle, a type of fresh pasta, with wild boar which was really great. My friend who, although she is not gluten intolerant, tries to avoid wheat-based foods, sampled the gluten-free menu and her dinner was delicious too. We both slept well that night!

The hotel’s spa was our highlight of the next day. It has hydro pools and a range of treatments. I had a holistic massage – utterly relaxing and I really started to feel the stresses of the previous months fading away.

We explored the countryside too – there is a horse-riding centre which the staff of the hotel can book for you and we had a lovely morning trekking around ancient trails through the hills, and just enjoying the peace and fresh air. By the end of our stay at the Saturnia Tuscan Hotel & Spa, we both felt thoroughly refreshed, restored and relaxed.