5 Portuguese hot springs to explore this summer

The summer vacations are here and there is no better time to rest and replenish energy. Centauro Rent a Car has the perfect solution for you! The northern and central parts of Portugal are full of thermal spas, which have scientifically proven health benefits. y proven health benefits. These treatments, performed with mineral water, can be preventive or therapeutic.
We suggest that you pick up your hire car at our Lisbon Airport or Porto Airport desk and, whether you are traveling with family or friends, take advantage of the best of these spa hotels as well as enjoying the cities and towns where they are located as well as the surrounding natural beauty. We are sure that you will have an unforgettable summer vacation!

Monte Real Hot Springs

About 150 kilometers from Lisbon (a ninety minute journey), on the A8, this spa hotel invokes a sense of well-being and contact with nature. It is located in the central latitudes of the country, by the sea, more precisely in the historic village of Monte Real. In this area you can also learn more about the history of this region by visiting the Gothic Monasteries of Alcobaça (inaugurated in 1187) and Batalha (built in 1386), explore the city of Leiria, spend a family day at Praia da Nazaré beach or visit the Santuário de Fátima (Sanctuary of Fátima), one of Portugal’s most religious symbols.

Cabeço de Vide or Sulfúrea Hot Springs

Follow the A6 and A2 motorways about 200 kilometers from Lisbon (a two hour drive) and you will find Cabeço de Vide and its hot springs. Within the district of Portalegre, you can visit the natural park Parque Natural da Serra de S. Mamede, a Portuguese protected area covering about 30 thousand hectares, ideal for hiking and for exploring the vegetation and also to refresh yourself in the natural pools. Take family or friends and visit charming villages such as Castelo de Vide, Marvão and Crato and sample the best typical Alentejan dishes such as Cacao Soup, Crumbed Pork and Lamb Stew.

Vimeiro Hot Springs

From Lisbon, drive 65 kilometers on the A8 road (a one hour drive) and you will reach the Vimeiro hot springs (the Friars’ Fountain), which are located halfway between the town of Maceira e a Praia do Porto Novo beach, in the Municipality of Torres Vedras. When visiting this resort, you can enjoy the family beach at Beleal or be more adventurous and try to surf in Peniche.

Luso Hot Springs

From Porto, drive 100 kilometers along the A1 road (a one hour drive) and you will find the Luso Hot Springs, located on the slopes of the charming Serra do Buçaco Mountain, where you can enjoy the Adventures of the Buçaco National Forest. These hot springs are surrounded by a landscape of indescribable beauty that fascinates all who visit them. The famous Água do Luso mineral water originates from this place, being one of the favorites of both Portuguese people and foreigners alike.

Unhais da Serra Hot Springs

Following the A25 road, about 250 kilometers away from Porto (a two hours and forty-five minute drive), you will arrive at the Unhais da Serra Hot Springs, located in the heart of the Serra da Estrela National Park. In addition to reaping the benefits of waters here, you can also visit Portugal’s highest mountain. In these summer months, you will not see snow, but there are fantastic towns and cities to visit and explore, such as Guarda, Fundão and Covilhã. You can not help yourself but to taste the cherries and the cheese;)

Either of these options will leave you refreshed and ready to get back to your routine. Then, deliver your car back to one of our counters and... Until next time!