According to legend, Charles IV was out hunting one day when one of his hounds tumbled into a hot spring, and the secret of Karlovy Vary was out. This famous spa town is located 130 km from Prague in the western part of Bohemia. The best-known spring is Vridlo (the sprudel) belches out its curative waters to a height of 10 metres. It is also the hottest one at 72°C (161°F). Many famous personalities have visited this town including Ludwig van Beethoven, Frederic Chopin, Franz Liszt, Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Friedrich Schiller, Alexei Tolstoy and Antonin Dvorak. Even if you are not a spa lover, the city still offers a relaxing atmosphere. You can stroll through the pedestrianised streets, shop at pretty riverside promenades or visit the Mosser factory, famous for its production of porcelain and glass.
For those wishing to try the spa treatments, some spas now cater for walk-in visitors.
Getting there: organized excursion, or by bus from Florenc station.
Recommended time at location: 5 to 6 hours.
