Picturesque Luso and its Perfect Spa Water

 
Portugal has – in my humble opinion – what I consider to be world-class water. Everyone has their favorite water, and mine is Água de Luso (Luso water). Given the choice between fancy Fiji water or Luso, I will always choose the latter, no hesitation. So it’s no wonder that I was particularly excited when I got to visit Luso’s springs and see where this delicious water comes from.

 
Luso can be found in central-north Portugal, north of Coimbra. It’s one of the leading spa towns in the country, no doubt due to the quality mineral water found there. The water comes from rain that lands on the Serra do Buçaco mountain, where Luso is located, and filtered primarily through quartz stone. The water then descends underground more than 500 meters (1640 ft) where the water is heated to 30º C (86º F) before eventually coming up to the town of Luso.

 
The picturesque little town is worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway at a spa location. Everything is walking distance of the town center. The main drinking fountain is open to the public and you’ll find people filling up bottles and jugs of what I consider to be the perfect drinking water. Walk around the town center and you’ll come across some gorgeous, flower-lined homes and art nouveau buildings. It almost feels like you’ve traveled back in time.

 
For visitors seeking the spa experience, you’ll find it at Termas de Luso, which offers both relaxation and physical therapy options. Conveniently located next door to the spa is the 4-star Grande Hotel de Luso, which has been in business for circa 70 years. It offers all the modern conveniences you’d expect, including an Olympic size outdoor pool with high dive and low dive.

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If you are looking for yet another memorable experience during your stay in Luso, you’ll find it at the Palácio do Buçaco, which is a short drive from the town. The palace and its surrounding forest features walking trails, a stunning restaurant, and lovely gardens. There’s a reason why 17th century monks used to live there: pure tranquility. And that’s just what you’ll find when you visit Luso and its vicinity…