Getting Oriented in Western Bohemia
The natural springs of hot mineral water that dot the lands of Western Bohemia have made this region one of Europe’s most important spa centers. These facilities near neighboring Germany have been renovated inside to meet international expectations during the last 25 years, but the exteriors of the colonnades and pavilions still reflect the styles of the 19th century. Because access to much of the border area was highly restricted in the communist era, the hills and forests still provide unspoiled natural settings for hiking and biking. The area also has a rich history of manufacturing luxury glassware and porcelain, which can be seen in downtown shops and factory stores. Farther south is the city of Plzeň, famous for inventing pilsner.
- Karlovy Vary. Better known to many as Karlsbad, the largest of the spa towns also hosts the country’s biggest film festival every July.
- Cheb. Proximity to the German border brings many bargain hunters for shopping, while castle ruins and a historical center add some diversion.
- Františkovy Lázně. The smallest of the spa towns in West Bohemia offers a quiet escape to hotels with mud baths and old-world pampering.
- Mariánské Lázně. In this town’s heyday, everyone from Thomas Edison to Czar Nicholas II came to take the waters. Today visitors can also enjoy golf and hiking.
- Plzeň. The only major Czech city to have been liberated by U.S. forces at the end of World War II, it’s also home to the country’s largest brewery.
