Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort

Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort, a lovingly restored 19th-century villa, is nestled in the picturesque Tuscany, in Monsummano Terme, between Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. Once the country residence of the poet Giuseppe Giusti, today's 5-star resort enchants with its unique blend of nature, art, and history. The centrepiece of the estate is the thermal cave, once described by Giuseppe Verdi as the "eighth wonder of the world." Surrounded by a centuries-old park, the non-smoking hotel offers a harmonious atmosphere of healing waters, pristine nature, and historic charm. Every detail of the resort, from the spa to the cuisine, is inspired by the poetry and beauty of the Tuscan landscape.

Grotta Giusti is located in Monsummano Terme, surrounded by the authentic beauty of Tuscany. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point to explore the cultural and scenic treasures of the region: from famous cities like Florence, Lucca, and Pisa to idyllic villages and historic villas. Tradition, nature, and history merge here to create an unparalleled experience that reveals the true poetry of Tuscany.

Wellness, flavour, and poetry combine to indulge body and soul with Tuscan delights. Il Poeta (Breakfast from 7-10:30 a.m., Lunch from 12:30-2:30 p.m., and Dinner from 7-11 p.m.) offers traditional, healthy, and seasonal dishes. Inspired by Guiseppe Guisti, the restaurant's name evokes poetry: rhymes and literary quotes adorn the menus. Nestled in the lush park, Oasi Bar and Restaurant at the summer pool (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) serves delicious food and drinks. At sunset, the bar offers special aperitifs. L' Affresco Lounge Bar (from 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.) offers herbal beverages and cocktails in a magnificent setting focused around a stunning frescoed ceiling. Refreshments and snacks are made from fresh, local produce, and even the liqueurs and spirits reveal the flavours of nature.

The Herb Garden with all herbs of Mediterranean traditions (basil, parsley, mint, sage, bay and rosemary bushes) and aromatic and medicinal plants provides the basis for infusions, herbal teas, spices for cooking, and flavours for cocktails and summer drinks.

The 3000 sqm Thermal Spa (open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.), featuring a Meditarium, a summer pool Oasi (closed from October to April), treatment rooms, relaxation areas, and a fitness area, is a captivating retreat inspired by the impressive thermal cave. The Meditarium, in various shades of rock, includes two saunas, a Roman bath, steam bath, indoor thermal pool with hydro massage jets, sensorial showers, and ice fountain.

Spa partner facility adjacent to the resort: Thermarium with Bioaquam thermal pool, Finnish sauna, and steam bath. 750 sqm outdoor thermal pool with hydro massage jets and waterfall, Bioaquam Pavilion with covered area in winter.

Europe's largest natural thermal cave, the centrepiece of the resort, is a millennia-old marvel stretching over 200 metres underground. The cave, divided into the areas of Paradise, Purgatory, and Hell, captivates with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 34°C and a crystal-clear, warm lake that consistently offers 36°C. The natural vapours have a detoxifying, soothing effect on the body and mind, boost metabolism, and bring the organism into balance. Guests can enjoy a steam bath for a fee, float in the thermal waters, or participate in activities such as Pilates or diving (basic certification required). Access from age 12, reservation at the hotel.

The cave was discovered in 1849 by stonebreakers working on the property of the Giusti family. While moving a rock, they stumbled upon the entrance to a cavity. Deep beneath them lay the cave with its warm vapours, stalactites and stalagmites, the warm lake, and its unique atmosphere. The discoverers noted the vapour's beneficial effects. This news piqued the interest of doctors, who scientifically confirmed the clinical efficacy of the treatment. Thus, the Giusti family began constructing the thermal baths. The fame of the "steam baths" and their effects began to spread. In 1880, the royal hotel was built, hosting notable guests such as the Prince of Naples and Giuseppe Verdi, who referred to the cave as the "eighth wonder of the world." The natural cave is open daily.

Fitness room and tennis court (equipment available for hire on site). Pilates, yoga, and meditation, as well as a personal trainer, are available upon request and for a fee. Yoga mats available for hire at the hotel. The entire park and the paths that meander through it provide the perfect setting for physical activities and meditation amidst nature. Walking, jogging, or trekking in the park can be enhanced with music or a selection of audio guides that introduce guests to the natural surroundings. Climbing courses are also available upon request and for a fee.

Grotta Giusti offers the opportunity to create personal herbal blends, participate in a cocktail workshop, wine and chocolate tastings, as well as tours of the olive grove and olive oil tastings. A picnic basket can be arranged if needed. Horse riding and vintage car tours are available in the surrounding area.