Nestled in the lush forests of western Czech Republic, the spa town of Karlovy Vary has long been celebrated for its healing thermal springs. Founded in the 14th century by Emperor Charles IV, the town is home to 13 main springs and over 300 smaller ones, each renowned for its unique mineral composition and therapeutic benefits.
Visitors come from all over the world to “take the waters”, a practice that involves drinking the warm mineral water directly from ornate fountains or public spouts scattered throughout the town’s picturesque colonnades. The water is rich in minerals such as sodium, calcium, and sulfates, believed to aid digestion, liver function, and metabolic health.
Traditionally, the water is sipped from a ceramic spa cup with a built-in straw, allowing the drinker to avoid the heat and minimize damage to tooth enamel. Each spring varies slightly in temperature and mineral content—ranging from 30°C to over 70°C—so spa doctors often prescribe specific springs based on the individual’s needs.
While the taste—salty and metallic—is an acquired one, the experience of drinking from the springs is as much about ritual as it is about health. Walking the scenic colonnades, cup in hand, one joins a centuries-old tradition that blends wellness, culture, and a bit of mystique in one of Europe’s most iconic spa destinations.that lies ahead!
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