5 European Spa Towns to spoil yourself in
Every vacation should involve some pampering and Central Europe has no shortage of charming spa towns to provide a well-earned dose of relaxation! Always situated around a mineral spa whose waters are thought to have healing benefits, spa towns are designed for visitors’ comfort and recreation. ‘Taking the waters’ is a long-held and much cherished European tradition which has retained popularity despite our increased reliance on modern medicines. Below are five Spa Towns which provide picturesque settings as well as curative waters:
1. Mariánské Lázně
The Colonnade in Mariánské Lázně is even more stunning in the evenings.
This famous Czech Spa Town has played host to Princes, Kings, Czars and Emperors over the years thanks to the 53 mineral springs situated in the town and surrounding area. With their high carbon dioxide and iron content, the waters are ideal for medicinal purposes. Many of the springs have classical-style pavilions build around them, adding to the town’s already impressive historical façade.
2. Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein’s beauty peaks in the winter, with snow painting the town white.
A popular spa resort since the 19th century, Bad Gastein is famous for the beautiful Gastein waterfall and its many Belle Époque hotel buildings. Located 1002 meters above sea level in the picturesque Hohe Tauern mountain range, the town is a popular destination for skiers and winter sport enthusiast as well as those seeking rest and relaxation.
3. Baden bei Wien
The Mozarttempel in Baden bei Wien is a nice stop in Kurpark Baden Stadtpark.
Surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, just breathing in the cool Alpine air will revegetate and revive a weary traveler. Beethoven is reputed to have said, “I never thought in my whole life that I could be as lazy as I was here” about his time in Baden bei Wien, but with a wide variety of activities on offer (from beautiful gardens to historic building to great wine-tasting and even a casino) there’s something for everyone!
4. Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden and its beautiful streets are enjoyable even when you’re not heading to the spa.
Nestled on the edge of Germany’s Black Forest, Baden-Baden is renowned for its salt rich thermal hot springs. The curative waters have attracted many visitors over the years, including President Obama and Queen Victoria. Thanks to its proximity to the French border, the spirit of France is prevalent in Baden-Baden and can be seen in the town's chic boutiques, charming cafes, and picturesque gardens.
5. Karlovy Vary
The rivers and streets of Karlovy Vary are even more pleasing after a long spa day.
Karlovy Vary is one of the best-known spa towns in the world and has played host to some of the most famous figures in European artistic and cultural life, such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Casanova. Today, due to its distinctive architecture, hot springs and popularity with Hollywood celebrities, it is ranked among Europe’s elite spa towns. Words by Jules Sanderson
