{{filter.label}}
Casciana Terme: Find villas with pool and holiday homes at Italiavillas
Casciana Terme: The Pearl of the Pisan Hills
Casciana Terme is often called the "Pearl of the Pisan Hills," and for good reason. It's a classic Tuscan spa town that balances old-world elegance with a slow, rhythmic pace of life.
A Touch of History
Legend has it that the thermal waters were discovered by a blackbird belonging to Countess Matilda of Canossa in the 11th century. The aging bird, sick and with fading feathers, supposedly dipped into a hot spring and emerged youthful and lively. Historically, the town became a formal spa destination under the Medici family and later the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, who built the elegant neoclassical structures that still define the town's aesthetic today.
Description and Atmosphere
Casciana Terme is the quintessential Italian getaway. The town centre is built around a charming piazza, flanked by outdoor cafes and the impressive façade of the thermal baths. If you are looking for a luxurious holiday, this region is a goldmine. The surrounding hills are dotted with exclusive villas and restored farmhouses. Many travellers choose a private villa with pool as a secluded base with panoramic views of olive groves, while still being minutes from the town's cafés. It is the perfect Tuscan holiday destination for those who want the privacy of a lush garden and a sparkling swimming pool by day, followed by a refined dinner in the village in the evening.
Typical dishes
The cuisine here is "Cucina Povera" at its best - simple, high-quality ingredients.
Zuppa Lombarda: A hearty bread soup seasoned with the region's tangy extra virgin olive oil.
Wild Boar (Cinghiale): Often served as a rich ragù over pappardelle pasta.
Chianina Beef: High-quality steaks grilled over wood-burning stoves.
Cantuccini & Vin Santo: Local almond biscuits dipped in sweet dessert wine.
Local Wine: You’re in the heart of the Terre di Pisa DOC area; look for Sangiovese-based red wines.
Things to do in the area
Thermal Baths: The centerpiece is the Terme di Casciana. You can enjoy the outdoor thermal pool (kept at a constant temperature of 35.7°C) or book specialized balneotherapy treatments.
Cycling and Hiking: The rolling hills (Colline Pisane) offer incredible routes for both road cyclists and hikers.
Wine Tasting: Visit nearby properties like Badia di Morrona for wine cellar tours.
Day Trips: You’re perfectly located between Pisa (35 min), Volterra (40 min) and the coast.
Local Festivals
San Genesio (August): The town's patron saint festival with a quirky tradition where hundreds of children release balloons with messages of peace.
Lari Cherry Festival (May/June): Located in the nearby village of Lari, it celebrates the famous local cherries with tastings and markets.
Living Nativity (December): A beautiful, atmospheric reenactment through the ancient streets.
Nature around the town
The landscape is defined by its "softness". In contrast to the rugged mountains to the north, the nature here consists of silver-leafed olive groves that produce some of Italy's best oil, as well as vineyards that change colour dramatically with the seasons. The soil here is rich in minerals from the natural springs, creating a lush, green microclimate even in the heat of summer.
Click to show the map