Luso and the stunning Bussaco National Forest are a charming destination located in the Bairrada region, in the central region of Portugal. In this article, we expose our experience in the natural, cultural and historical wonders that this region has to offer.
Luso
Luso is a thermal village famous for its medicinal waters, which attract visitors in search of relaxation and well-being. However, in addition to the thermal baths, travellers can enjoy charming walks through the village’s picturesque streets, try the delicious local cuisine and visit points of historical interest, such as São João Fountain, one of the most emblematic in the region.
Bussaco National Forest
Serra do Bussaco, next to Luso, is a true natural jewel, home to the stunning Bussaco National Forest, one of Portugal’s natural treasures.
This forest offers a unique experience, with hiking trails that wind through ancient trees, crystal-clear water sources and viewpoints with stunning views.
The National Forest was in the past a refuge for monks and kings who created their unique flora that has survived to this day due to its microclimate. In this mountain range, the memories of the battle that pitted the Anglo-Portuguese troops commanded by Wellington against the French troops are also alive.
In addition to the walking routes through the forest, in the central point of the National Forest passes there are the convent of Santa Cruz do Bussaco and the Bussaco Hotel Palace. These two structures occupy a higher area in the forest and are undoubtedly worth a visit.
The highest part of the forest is the Cruz Alta viewpoint, where you can see the entire area surrounding Luso and the Bussaco National Forest.
Because we were taking the little traveller with us, we had chosen to travel through the national forest by car, taking short walks along the hiking trails. We parked in the designated parks and first visited the Fetos Valley and Fonte Fria, then the Convent and the Palace. To get to the viewpoint we also opted for the car, as the walk there would be demanding for us.
In short, several highlights cannot be missed in Bussaco. The following stand out:
You can follow the following link to consult the map of the Bussaco National Forest.
Luso and Bussaco Map
On the following map, you can see the village of Luso and the Bussaco National Museum. Luso is the gateway to the forest.
Currently, entry into the Bussaco National Forest is controlled and paid, if you want to enter with your car. You can enter in the forest by foot and also by bicycle for free.
On the Bussaco National Forest Foundation website you can book guided tours of the forest and its history.
Tools for booking your vacation
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Important tips to visit Luso and Bussaco
Ideal season
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Luso and Bussaco National Forest when the climate is milder and the landscapes are more exuberant.
Activities
In addition to hiking in the forest, travellers can explore the region by bicycle and participate in the various events that the Bussaco Foundation provides.
Gastronomy
In the Bairrada region where Luso and the Bussaco forest are located, Leitão da Bairrada is the most famous dish that cannot be missed. On the access roads to Luso, there are many restaurants with this speciality. Along with the Leitão, be sure to drink the famous sparkling wines.
Plan your trip using the following tools and/or website
Using the following links and tools on the website you are helping to maintain Scannertrip. This use is the same for you and you do not pay more for it. For Scannertrip it makes all the difference!!
- To find the best stays use Booking. It is one of the best websites for booking stays and always with some promotions on some destinations. The reliability and ease of booking and cancelling make it even the most popular.
- To compare prices for your Stays you can use the Hotels Combined or hotellook. These search engines show different prices from other websites for the same destination. There may possibly be a lower price for the same hotel on another website and these search engines will show it.
- When you are preparing what to do at your destination, you will obviously search for activities to occupy you. Use this activity comparator in the scannertrip provided by Musement, or tiqets or the civitatis.
- Transfers to and from the airport can be purchased via the website kiwitaxi. So you don’t need to get in touch with the different companies in your destination looking for the best price.
- If you choose to rent a car, also use the price comparators. The autoeurope website compares prices from different rental companies.
Luso and the Bussaco National Forest are truly magical destinations, where exuberant nature combines with rich Portuguese history and culture. Whether relaxing in the thermal waters, exploring trails in the forest or tasting local delicacies, this region promises an experience for all travellers. See our other suggestions in the central region.
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