Gracias, Lempira July 2015 | Page 11

These hot springs are frequented by medical brigades of Orthopedics and kinesiologists from abroad, as they come highly recommended to treat motion sickness. Come and visit for their therapeutic properties, or simply to enjoy a moment of complete relaxation. Dare to go on a warm day or during the cool moonlight. The important thing is to go.

To get to the spa you may arrive by car or by mototaxi that will take you to this little piece of paradise in Gracias, Lempira.

The streams are open to the public seven days a week and the property features a diner, locker rooms and restrooms

celaque National Park

So close to downtown Gracias (9km), and yet so far away (it is a long, long uphill walk to the visitors center). If you are only planning on a brief visit to the park, it is best to negotiate a car to take you up to the Visitors Center, as you will need your energy to do the hiking from here up to the 2,500m level where the cloud forest vegetation actually begins. This means a good 4 to 5 hour hike! However, a shorter trip into the forest is also worth while, as you have the possibility of seeing many orchids and abundant bird life.

Another interesting site to visit is the organic coffee farm, located ½ hour hike up into the park. This is also a

fantastic site to enjoy the colorful tropical birds that inhabit the park. There are also several knowledgeable and very responsible guides that can lead you into the mountain for several days of hiking – camping in the park. Of particular beauty are the hikes from Villa Verde to Santa Teresa, Santa Teresa to Belen Gualcho and Villa Verde up to the cloud forest. These hikes will take between 2 and 4 days. For more information, contact the hotel and restaurant Guancascos, located at the foot of the small hill where the fort is located. Plan on being at the center by 7:00 a.m. at the latest to have a better chance of seeing the wildlife.

Attractions Surrounding Gracias, Lempira

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