Best time to visit Tuscany

Rio Buti, a Cold Water Swimming Hole in Tuscany

This cool swimming hole near Prato is a wonderful place to chill out on a hot summer day

Best time: June–August

Rio Buti, a Cold Water Swimming Hole

This swimming hole with a waterfall and grotto is one of the hidden treasures of the city of Prato. It's a perfect spot for a hike and relaxation in the chilly water. It can be easily reached on foot or by bike from the Prato train station. It's quite easy to find, just follow the marked hiking trail number 40. The path goes uphill and can be quite challenging so make sure you have comfortable shoes and enough water. As you reach the top of the hill, you'll see a large swimming hole with a waterfall. In the summer the water is pleasantly cool.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Rio Buti for cold water swimming?

The ideal time for cold swimming in Rio Buti is during the summer, between June to August. The cool water provides a refreshing respite from the scorching sun during this time of year. Show more

Where can I find the marked hiking trail number 40 in Tuscany?

The trailhead for hiking trail number 40 in Tuscany can easily be reached on foot or by bike from the Prato train station. Climbing the trail could be a challenge as visitors must hike uphill, and it takes about an hour to complete. After reaching the top, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and relax in the cold swimming hole, which has a waterfall and a grotto. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear, bring water and enjoy nature. Show more

What is the level of difficulty of the hiking trail to Rio Buti?

Hiking trail to Rio Buti can be challenging as it's mostly uphill. The trail roughly takes an hour to reach the swimming hole, and visitors should be ready for that. The hiking trail is not recommended for people with mobility issues or young children. However, the beautiful scenery, serene surroundings, and cold swimming hole make the hike rewarding and worth the effort. Show more

How deep is the swimming hole at Rio Buti?

Visitors should exercise caution when swimming in Rio Buti's swimming hole as there is no information available about the pool's depth. The water is refreshing, so visitors should take appropriate precautions while navigating it, such as following swimming safety rules and not swimming alone. The surrounding environment should be respected, and visitors should take extra care not to damage or litter the natural setting. Show more

What is the distance between Prato train station and Rio Buti hiking trail?

The hiking trail to Rio Buti is easily accessible from the Prato train station by foot or bike. The distance is short, and visitors can reach the trailhead in no time. The trail could be challenging but would take visitors through beautiful scenery and a downhill climb that culminates in the cool waters of the swimming hole. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring sufficient water, and enjoy the idyllic surroundings atop the mountain. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Rio Buti, a Cold Water Swimming Hole (Map)

Last updated: