Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad)

The most famous Czech spa, the importance of which far exceeds the borders of the country, lies in the westernmost part of Bohemia in the charming Teplá river valley. The Czech Republic is interwoven with healing springs like gold thread running through a rare tapestry. Poděbrady in Central Bohemia, Moravia’s Luhačovice, Janské Lázně in the north of the country… However, the highest number of healing springs is found in the famous “spa triangle” of West Bohemia. Karlovy Vary, with its 12 hot healing springs and famous spring gushing up to 15 metres into the air is the real jewel in the crown of Czech spas. Legend has it that the now world-famous spa spring was discovered in the 14th century when the hunting party of king and emperor Charles IV happened upon it.

Theresa, Bach, Goethe, Casanova and Beethoven have taken the waters here just adds to the experience. You will discover another of the town’s attractions if, as well as its health-giving waters, you try Becherovka, the famous local herb liqueur. Ascending a spa trail through woods to a height above the town and seeing it laid out deep beneath you is equally enchanting. Karlovy Vary will find a place in your heart and make you want to visit again and again.

Becherovka

If you visit Karlovy Vary at the start of summer you will experience the atmosphere of the biggest international film festival east of Cannes. You might even meet a Hollywood star on the red carpet. www.kviff.com

Karlovy Vary

Getting there from Prague: 130 km, 1:40 hrs, 3:20 hrs, 2:15 hrs Nearby sights: • Jáchymov Spa • Františkovy Lázně • Loket Castle www.karlovyvary.cz

It is hard to resist Karlovy Vary‘s carefree spirit and the sense of stately calm on the promenade that runs between the splendid facades of grand houses and colonnades richly decorated with columns. Knowing that Peter the Great, Marie

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