Ian Bradley

Since time immemorial, water has been a major theme in myth, religion and folklore throughout the world. With its 12,000-mile coastline, as well as a plethora of rivers and lochs, Scotland is a particularly rewarding place in which to explore the spiritual dimensions of what is both the most commonplace and yet the most mysterious of all chemical compounds. This is a journey from healing wells, springs, river sources and bogs to the seashore, islands and whirlpools, to discover the legends, superstitions and rituals that have grown up around them. Drawing on spirituality, philosophy and faith as well as history and tradition, Ian Bradley highlights the crucial importance of water over thousands of years, and emphasises its preciousness and vulnerability today and in the future. 'Bradley has a gift for wresting the most joyous morsels from his sources' – The Sunday Telegraph

Ian Bradley has been fascinated by spas since regularly taking the waters at Tunbridge Wells as a boy. He has visited, written and broadcast about spas across Europe and sampled the cures that they offer for over forty years. This book distils his accumulated experiences, research and reflections while also presenting an up-to-date picture of the atmosphere of what, for him, are the most enchanting, and enchanted spas today. The book blends personal reminiscences with a historical overview, amusing anecdotes, factual information and useful tips for visitors. It describes the experience of taking the waters and relishing the atmosphere at thirteen continental spas, seven of which have recently been given UNESCO World Heritage status as 'The Great Spas of Europe'. The result is a fascinating, amusing, and informative survey of these last enchanted places which are being increasingly visited by tourists for their cultural and historic connections as much as their therapeutic benefits.