The Bucaco Forest and Palace

The Buçaco National Forest is an enchanted walled woodland on a hill near Coimbra, planted by monks centuries ago, with towering trees from around the world, chapels, fountains, a cascading staircase and a fairytale palace hotel. Nearby Luso is a traditional spa town.

Quick answer: Buçaco is about 40 minutes north of Coimbra. Walk the forest trails to the Fonte Fria cascade, the Cruz Alta viewpoint and the chapels of the Via Sacra, see the Bussaco Palace (or stay there), and visit the spa town of Luso. Allow half a day. Check prices at the Bussaco Palace.

What to see

• The palace: a neo-Manueline royal hunting lodge, now a hotel with a lavish interior.
• The forest: giant cedars, ferns and exotic trees planted by Carmelite monks.
• Fonte Fria: a staircase of water cascading down to a pool.
• Cruz Alta: a viewpoint at the top of the hill.
• The convent: the small cork-lined monastery of the monks.
• The battle site: a museum and monument to the 1810 Battle of Buçaco.

Luso

A spa town known for its spring water, with a thermal spa and parks. See places to stay in Luso.

Tips

• Shoes: paths are hilly and can be damp.
• Combine with Coimbra. See Coimbra.

More: palaces in Portugal and unique places to stay.

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