Visit the Karlovy Vary spa whose mineral cure was a favorite of Václav Havel

The Czech spa tradition, which dates back to medieval times when people began visiting natural springs in search of better health and cures for any number of ailments, is alive and well in Karlovy Vary.

The jewel in the crown of the UNESCO preserved West Bohemian Spa Triangle, Karlovy Vary’s distinctive historic spa architecture, unspoilt natural surroundings, and a thriving cultural scene makes the city one of the world’s most desirable spa retreats.

Prezident Luxury Spa and Wellness Hotel situated in the heart of the historic city of Karlovy Vary – mere steps from the city’s landmark Hot Spring – is an ideal base for not only taking advantage of nourishing spa treatments in a modern and luxurious setting but exploring lush forests encompassing 180 kilometers of trails, stunning views and lookout towers.

History buffs will also appreciate the story behind the hotel’s name: it has long been a favorite of world leaders.

In the footsteps of Havel

While the region has long drawn world leaders looking to escape the stress of daily life, including first Czechoslovak President Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, who repeatedly visited Karlovy Vary to benefit from its healing springs, one president in particular has a longstanding connection with the Hotel Prezident: Václav Havel.

“During his visits, he appreciated the friendly atmosphere of a purely Czech family hotel and the highest quality of services provided,” says a hotel spokesperson who adds that the name of the Hotel Prezident is actually inspired by Havel, whose legacy is commemorated on the premises with a unique bronze bust in the hotel lobby.

Havel’s wife Dagmar Havlová, as well as Hollywood star Uma Thurman and Jiří Bartoška, President of the International Karlovy Vary Film Festival Jiří Bartoška took part in the unveiling of the bust in 2017. 

Experience the balneotherapy cure that was a presidential favorite

President Havel received care from Dr. Milada Sárová, a world-renowned expert in the field of balneology and internal medicine at the Hotel Prezident. He was not the only president she treated. Mikhail Gorbachev, the final leader of the Soviet Union known for his democratic reforms was also her client and benefited from the natural healing power of the Karlovy Vary mineral water drinking cure.

Nowadays Hotel Prezident’s experts are leaders in scientific research and the medicinal use of Karlovy Vary springs, working constantly to improve their client's health via the beneficial effects of the balneotherapy cure. These ‘president-quality’ treatments are available to hotel guests today as well.

Under the guidance of Dr. Sárová, a professional team of physiotherapists use the latest diagnostics and unique procedures to heal and strengthen the entire body, boost natural immunity, and contribute to the prevention or treatment of digestive and metabolic diseases, diabetes or obesity, as well as lifestyle diseases like stress and fatigue.

Notable destressing treatments include a floating-pool that simulates the weightlessness that can be experienced in the Dead Sea. A unique backlit swimming pool featuring an onyx wall offers the ultimate escape or indulge in a “biosauna,” which combines a classic Finnish sauna and aromatic steam room.

Guests can also visit the Roman-style tepidarium, Finnish sauna, and an ice fountain and plunge pool complete the experience.

Spa and beauty treatments

Additional treatments on offer at the Hotel Prezident’s private Spa Suites include Oriental Golden Rasoul, which uses healing mud from different parts of the world, Turkish Hammam treatment with heated marble, and Russian sauna with original wood from the Siberian Kelo pine.

The hotel also boasts 100 types of wellness and cosmetics procedures that relax and regenerate body and mind. Natural cosmetics products (brands include DR.BABOR or Alqvimia) target anti-aging and overall body beautification as does the advanced non-invasive technology Ultrasharp, which guarantees an immediate loss of fat cells in problem areas.

Modern luxury hotel surrounded by UNESCO splendor 

The spa experience is completed by culinary offerings of chef Pavel Svoboda, who pairs traditional and international cuisine with organic Moravian wines.

In addition the complex also offers relaxing terraces with a scenic view of Karlovy Vary and surrounding forests. In winter, the Ore Mountains offer up to 20 ski resorts for downhill skiing and an extensive network of groomed cross-country trails. In the warmer months visitors can enjoy other sports in the vicinity such as golf.

Culture enthusiasts will be surprised by the number of historical monuments, castles, chateaux, museums and other interesting places that can be reached using the hotel as a base. 

Currently, gift vouchers are available for a wide range of wellness treatments and healing and relaxing spa programs and stays that are designed to help boost immunity and rid the body of toxins accumulated throughout the year.