Aside from being the home to one of the greatest circuits on the Formula One calendar, Spa is recognised throughout the world for its water. The Romans were the first people to discover its natural springs deep in the Ardennes countryside, and people still visit the town today in search of hydrotherapy. The biggest industry in the town is the famous bottled water company, Spa. The mention of water is never far from people’s lips at the circuit, which is eight kilometres from the town. One of the most fearsome corners on the lap is Pouhon, which translates into English as ‘water well’ and the Ardennes has a micro-climate all of its own, hence rain tyres are never far from the cars.
There is an aerodrome on the outskirts of Spa, but the nearest international airport is Brussels. It has connections all over Europe, as well as many intercontinental flights, and is only a two-hour drive from the track. Spa itself is the obvious place to go out when at the Grand Prix. With its many outdoor cafes and restaurants, it is full of charm. It even has a Casino. Thanks to its springs, Spa is known as the ‘Cafe of Europe’. Liege is another possible destination and it has lots of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. The coal mining town of Blegny is also worth a visit. The pits are now closed, allowing visitors to go underground to see what life was like for miners
If you want a quiet, relaxing time, stay in Spa for a few days and spoil yourself with some hydrotherapy. For a city break, why not head to Brussels? The Belgian capital is full of charm, with amazing baroque architecture, a spectacular Gothic town hall, and endless pavement cafes. Sights of note include the Grand Place and the Rue des Bouchers, famous for its seafood.