Grotta Giusti Hotel Review: The Best Romantic Getaway in Tuscany for Luxury & Nature Lovers

Looking for a romantic getaway in Italy? This award winning resort in Tuscany was voted the best thermal grotto spa hotel IN THE WORLD. Here’s my Grotta Giusti Hotel Review!

If your idea of a relaxing or romantic getaway means unwinding in a centuries-old Italian villa in Tuscany’s countryside, drinking champagne and eating prosciutto e melone, while soaking in the warm waters of the largest underground thermal grotto in Europe, you’re in for a treat. 

Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at Grotta Giusti, a luxurious spa retreat that combines luxury, history, nature, wellness, and 5 star dining in all the best ways. 

Whether you’re a luxury traveler, spa enthusiast, nature lover, or romantic duo, let me take you through every magical detail of my stay so you can decide if this might just be the Tuscan getaway you didn’t know you needed.

Because there’s so much to cover, I’m going to include my Grotta Giusti spa review in a separate blog. Stay tuned!

My Grotta Giusti Hotel Review, a Magical Stay at Italy’s Best Thermal Spa Resort

From Rome and Bologna to Parma and Cinque Terre, I’ve gotten to enjoy so many different Italian sceneries. But, there’s no place like Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort in Monsummano Terme.

This isn’t just a hotel, it’s an experience… the kind of place that makes you forget about emails and deadlines and look forward to some romance, relaxion, and perhaps sexy fun. 😉 

If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to experience a thermal spa resort in Italy, I highly recommend booking a stay at Grotta Giusti. As someone who’s been to many thermal spas worldwide, I can honestly say that this stay is the ultimate luxury spa vacation from beginning to end.

From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stumbled into a Tuscan fairytale. 

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Location: A Tuscan Dream Come True

There’s something magical about the location of Monsummano Terme, which is tucked away enough to feel like a secret retreat, yet close enough to Tuscany’s other iconic cities like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca to keep you connected to sightseeing opportunities. 

It’s the perfect stop whether you’re enjoying slow travel, exploring many destinations in Italy over an extended period of time… or want a relaxing break in between your trip’s jam packed schedule.

Getting There: Easy Access, Scenic Routes

Traveling to Grotta Giusti is straightforward, with several convenient options. Here’s how you can reach this Tuscan retreat:

• By Car: The resort is a 40-minute drive from Florence Airport or 45 minutes from Pisa International Airport via the A11 motorway. The hotel offers free on-site and valet parking and free electric car charging stations. Rent a car here.

From Florence, we had a smooth 40 minute drive on scenic Tuscan backroads passing rolling hills, cypress trees, vineyards, and charming villages. It all felt like a scene right out of “Under the Tuscan Sun”.

• By Train: Take a train to Montecatini Terme – Monsummano Station, the nearest railway station, then a short taxi ride to the resort. If you’re coming from Florence, board a train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station.
• By Bus: Buses to Montecatini Terme run regularly from nearby cities. Once you arrive, you can hop in a taxi for the rest of the journey.
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: For a stress-free option, the resort can arrange private transfers. The resort also has a car, van, or limo service on property for hire. Alternatively, taxis are available from Florence, Pisa, or Montecatini Terme.

Book Transportation with Omio:

The Arrival: A Warm Welcome to Tuscany

As I pulled up to the big iron gates of Grotta Giusti’s 19th century villa, I felt like a character in an old romantic novel… 

The original villa was once the home of Italian poet, Giuse Giusti, who discovered the thermal grotto on his property by accident… Can you imagine?

Every detail of Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort is what makes it one of the top boutique spa hotels in Tuscany. It’s no wonder they’ve won so many awards!

Check-in

Once inside, we were greeted by the friendly staff who, although welcoming, took a little while with the check-in process.

Maybe it was the time of day we came or, maybe the Italians have a more relaxed approach. I’m used to my American culture’s “go, go, go” nature. 

We were thrilled to get some extra perks for being loyal Marriott Bonvoy members, including a welcome gift and complimentary suite upgrade.. Booyah babe! 

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The Atmosphere

Grotta Giusti is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, a class of hotels known for having that extra something special. 

Interior

Just in case you weren’t paying attention at the check-in “counter” which looks just like your artistic, plant loving friend’s home with mini Roman busts and pots of plants displayed in briefcases, Gotta Giusti is all about the nature vibes.

The hotel’s art nouveau style architecture blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance, giving you modern comforts without compromising on its historic allure. 

Think high ceilings, elegant frescoes, cozy lounge areas, and classic Italian decor paired with sleek, updated amenities.  

The end result is an effortlessly sophisticated aesthetic, but not in an intimidating way. It’s luxurious without feeling pretentious… the kind of place where you can sip Prosecco in a plush bathrobe and still feel like royalty, with an air of quiet elegance that lets you truly unwind. 

The icing on the cake? The hotel smells heavenly. They have a vaporizer which diffuses essential oils into the air. 

Exterior

So much so that the hotel is set in such a beautiful setting in nature. You’re surrounded by Tuscany’s rolling hills, olive groves, grass, trees, park… It felt incredibly relaxing to be so immersed in nature.

My Room: Junior Suite with Balcony Garden View

The spacious and luxurious suite (#303) was everything I dreamed of and more…

Design

Think: Classic Italian chic with a mix of modern and elegant touches, soft neutral tones, marble flooring, ornate furnishings, plush velvet drapes, and those impossibly high ceilings that made everything feel grand. 

When you walk in, you don’t know where to look first. There’s a lounge area that begged for us to sit down with a glass of wine. In fact, a handwritten welcome note, a couple of glasses, and a bottle of wine laid out practically instructed us to do so.

Then you walk into the bedroom with its elegant 4 poster bed and French doors leading out to your own personal balcony overlooking the lovely Tuscan countryside. 

The paintings and wallpaper had trees, butterflies, and birds, which brought together the hotel’s luxe nature theme perfectly. 

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My Sleep

For the most part, I had a five star snooze. The king-sized bed had a super comfortable pillow top mattress striking a perfect balance between firm and plush. The high thread count linens were also a nice touch. 

However, the pillows were a bit flat, so I had to stack 2 on top of each other. I was also a bit chilly and wanted to request extra blankets, but when I called down at 11 PM, they were unable to provide them due to limited staff, which was a bit disappointing. I’m used to round the clock service at other Marriott properties.

Bathroom

Imagine my surprise to find a gorgeous marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub, separate rainfall shower, bidet, bathrobes, and luxe toiletries that smelled like a Tuscan meadow. There was also a hair dryer, a big mirror, and even counter space to spread out your makeup ladies. 😉

In-room amenities

The room had complimentary Wi-Fi, bottles of water, a well-stocked minibar with local wines and gourmet goodies (extra charge), coffee/espresso machine with proper glassware and cups.

Also, a large flat-screen TV with international channels and on-demand movies you can order. You can also request an iron and ironing board. They also offer room service.

Remote workers and digital nomads will love the complimentary high-speed WiFi and spacious work desk.

There were also robes, swim caps, and slippers provided for us in my room. However, these things were not in my parent’s room and had to be requested (maybe housekeeping forgot).

Storage Space

Being that I’m a girl, I appreciated how much space there was in the closet (which had plenty of hangers) and dressers. There’s also a lock box in the closet.

Cleanliness

Impeccable. From the sparkling spa facilities to my perfectly tidied room, everything was spotless. The hotel offers a turndown service every evening as well as daily housekeeping. I loved coming back to a clean room without having to request it. They also had a robot vacuum in the hallway, which was a cool touch. 

Pet Friendly

Pet owners will love the pet beds and bowls the hotel offers. Afterall, we want our four-legged friends to feel just as pampered as their human companions. 😉 For pets over 44 lbs., it’s a €35 fee. 

Where to Dine at Grotta Giusti

There are over 400 restaurants within 5 miles of the resort. But, I have a feeling, you’ll be so relaxed, you won’t want to leave. 😉

Luckily, the hotel has a few great dining options to choose from with a mix of elegant meals and casual bites. After a day at the pool and spa, I loved getting dolled up for dinner. 

• Il Poeta Restaurant: Sophisticated, multi-course Italian dining with seasonal, garden-fresh ingredients and expertly paired wines. It was incredible every single night. Breakfast here deserves its own shoutout… a spread of fresh pastries, fruits, and cheeses that feels like the perfect start to a Tuscan day.
• Bioaquam Café: Relaxed poolside dining with light bites like salads, sandwiches, refreshing cocktails, and fresh juices. Prosciutto and Meloné with champagne anyone?

• Oasi Restaurant & Pool Bar: Outdoor summer dining with a serene, park-side setting and fresh, natural dishes that feels like an oasis.
• L’Affresco Lounge & Bar: Ideal for evening cocktails, often crafted with herbs and liqueurs made in-house. They also have light bites.
• Chiocciola Caffè: According to the poem from which it takes its name, the Chiocciola Caffè is the perfect setting to take it slow. What’s lovelier than a morning reading a book in a beautiful lounge while sipping traditional Italian coffee or herbal teas from the hotel’s own garden?

Breakfast

You can get a room package that includes breakfast, which we did. Their food display is on another level! We looked forward to breakfast every morning and loved sitting outside on the patio overlooking the property and taking the countryside in.

Activities and Experiences

In my next blog, I’ll share how Grotta Giusti has nailed the spa experience. But, they also have some other great experiences you can try at the resort or in the local area. 

• On-site Activities: the resort has a lovely property with an olive grove, herbal garden, park with walking trail, and tennis court.
• Health and Wellness: There are specialized wellness programs offered combining fitness, nutrition, and spa treatments, like the Thermal Detox or Get Back in Shape program, perfect for guests focusing on holistic health and transformation. There’s also a gym with state of the art equipment and trails for hiking and biking.
• Yoga and Pilates: Join yoga and pilates sessions either in the park or in the cave.
• Biking: Explore the resort’s beautiful surroundings on a bike, available for rent.

• Tuscan Picnic: Enjoy a Tuscan style picnic in the resort’s beautiful gardens, featuring local delicacies and wines.
• Explore the park: There are trekking paths around the resort. You can even take your dog.
• Wine Tastings & Culinary Workshops: Indulge in curated wine tastings and hands-on cooking classes featuring Tuscan recipes or, do a chocolate and wine tasting. Perfect for foodies and wine enthusiasts who want to connect with local culture while enjoying the region’s finest flavors.
• Mixology Class: Using the herbs in the herbal garden, a bartender will teach you how to craft your own cocktails.
• Create your own scent: Get a tour of the resort’s herbal garden from an herbalist while learning about herbs while crafting a unique signature scent for you to take home.
• Golf: Tee off at an 18 hole golf course a few minutes from the resort which offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside and is perfect for golfers of all skill levels.

Price: Is it Worth it?

If you’re looking for a place to unplug, unwind, and soak in the beauty of Tuscany, Grotta Giusti is it. Between the luxurious rooms, gourmet dining options, relaxing spa atmosphere, and serene surroundings, it’s a destination that truly lives up to the hype especially for those looking for a romantic getaway.

Rooms start around €250 per night during the off-season, climbing up to €500+ during peak months. Packages that include spa treatments and access to the thermal pools are available, and honestly, they’re worth splurging on.

Pro tip: Check for deals during the shoulder season (April–May and September–October) for a more budget-friendly stay.

How to Book

Book Grotta Giusti directly through Marriott’s website to unlock loyalty perks and the best rates. Look out for special packages with spa treatments or dining credits to maximize your experience.

The Benefits of Being a Marriott Bonvoy Member

Staying at Grotta Giusti as a Marriott Bonvoy member felt like hitting the hotel jackpot. My perks included a complimentary suite upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, and even a personalized welcome gift. Plus, earning points during my stay made the splurge feel totally justified.

If you’re a member, this property is a must-visit. Not a member yet? Sign up for free to start earning points toward free stays, exclusive discounts, and concierge lounge access.

Best Times to Stay at Grotta Giusti

Grotta Giusti is a year-round retreat, offering festive holiday events and packages for Christmas and New Year’s. Spring and Summer showcase Tuscany’s beauty, with lush landscapes and opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside. Fall brings a romantic charm with cooler weather and fewer crowds, ideal for relaxation.

Plan Your Visit: Pro Tips

If you’re thinking about visiting (and you absolutely should), here’s what you need to know:

• Book ahead. Treatments and grotto access are popular, so don’t wait until the last minute.
• Pack light. They provide robes, towels, and slippers, so all you really need is your swimsuit and a good attitude.
• Make time for lunch. The light spa menu is thoughtfully crafted to complement the wellness vibe, and dining al fresco by the pool is a whole experience in itself.
• Avoid the crowds. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Pros & Cons of Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to love (and a few things to consider) about Grotta Giusti to help you decide if it’s the right retreat for you.

Pros

• Fully Immersed in Nature: Everywhere you look, you see green. It’s refreshing to be in such a naturally beautiful setting.
• Romantic Atmosphere: The resort seemed to cater to adults more than kids, creating a more relaxing atmosphere.
• Impeccably Maintained: The resort is spotless and beautifully cared for.
• Elegant Suites: Luxurious, comfortable, and well-equipped, with a private garden-view patio.
• Spa & Pool: Fantastic facilities that feel like a true escape.
• Mobility Accessible: Thoughtfully designed for those with mobility needs. For more information, call the hotel directly to get a full list of offerings: +39 0572-907-7991. 
• Thermal Grotto: A rare and unique feature that sets this resort apart.
• Skilled Therapists: The massage treatments were top-notch.
• Dining Variety: Enjoyed garden-side breakfasts, poolside lunches, and lovely dinners. Room service is available.
• Pet Friendly: Offers beds and bowls for pets, plus plenty of green spaces for them to explore.
• Adults-Oriented: Not specifically catered to kids, making it ideal for couples and solo travelers.

Cons

• Limited Evening Staff: Requests after hours (like an extra blanket) couldn’t be fulfilled due to staffing shortages.
• Crowded Pool: Day passes for non hotel guests can make the pool busy; dedicated hours for hotel guests would be great.
• Flat Pillows: The bed was comfy, but the pillows could use an upgrade, they should consider adding a pillow menu!
• Confusing Layout: The property’s maze-like design, especially in the spa area, can be disorienting.
• Outdated Bioaquam Area: The thermal pool could use a design refresh to match the rest of the resort’s elegance.

While the pros far outweigh the cons, a few updates and adjustments could elevate the experience even further!

That’s a Wrap!

Overall, I had an incredible stay and if given the chance, I’d definitely come back and do it again. This is one of my new favorite hotels and spas! 

P.S. Ready to book? Let me know in the comments if you’ve stayed here or have any questions. I’d love to hear from you!