The spa towns of Karlovy Vary, Františkovy Lázně and Mariánské Lázně give the Karlovy Vary Region a distinctive theme: all three are part of the Czech components of the serial UNESCO World Heritage Site The Great Spa Towns of Europe. But mineral springs and spa architecture are only one way to explore this diverse region. Castles, collections and hiking landscapes offer more discoveries.
Spa Towns and Landscapes
In Karlovy Vary, the colonnades lead to mineral springs. These include Vřídlo, a geyser whose water rises twelve metres into the air. The town’s setting also makes an impression: Karlovy Vary lies deep in the Teplá Valley, surrounded by rocks and wooded hills. Spa wafers are a traditional treat associated with the region—a local delicacy to enjoy alongside the springs and scenery.
If you prefer to explore on foot, Karlovarský kraj has a dense network of marked hiking trails. They connect the Krušné hory and Slavkovský les with towns and villages. The Kladská Moor Nature Reserve offers a different way to experience nature: an accessible nature trail loops around the pond at Kladská, passing through meadows, forests and moorland. Check the trail infrastructure before your visit.
Hiking and cycling trails also run through the area around Kynžvart Spa and Kynžvart Castle. The region offers both marked routes connecting different landscapes and a nature trail with a defined loop through the moorland.
Castles and Remarkable Collections
Loket Castle offers different perspectives on its history and use. Its 26-metre-high tower is a lookout point over the surrounding area. The rotunda dates from the 12th century and has an interior diameter of 3.6 metres. Music and theatre performances take place in the ceremonial hall. Architecture, views and performance space are all distinct aspects of the same castle.
At the Museum Gallery in Bečov nad Teplou, the Romanesque goldsmith’s work known as the Reliquary of Saint Maurus takes centre stage. The reliquary was discovered in the castle chapel at Bečov on 5 November 1985. Visitors can explore the exhibition independently; its texts are in Czech and English, and it also includes interactive features. The story of an important work of art meets a self-guided exhibition format.
Kynžvart Castle offers a different focus: its cabinet of curiosities displays around 1,800 objects, including two Egyptian mummies. The older mummy dates back more than 3,500 years. The museum is considered one of the oldest private museums in the world. Outside, the castle park features a system of ponds, romantic nooks and places to relax. The collection and the park have very different characters, but both are among the discoveries to be made around Kynžvart Castle.
Practical Information
Kynžvart State Castle is fully accessible; it has a lift and an accessible toilet. There is a children’s play area near the ticket office. Buses to the castle run from several directions, and some routes stop at the castle. Train connections to Lázně Kynžvart run from Plzeň and Cheb; passengers should get off at the Lázně Kynžvart stop in Stará Voda.
You can organise your exploration of the region around your interests: the spa towns are known for their mineral springs and UNESCO connection; castles and collections offer architecture and culture; and the marked trails and moorland are ideal for exploring outdoors. When choosing a destination and accommodation, consider which of these experiences best suits your trip.
Discover more destinations: Cheb District, Karlovy Vary District, Sokolov District, Jihlava, Zlín, Liberec, Pardubice, Ústí nad Labem.
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