Enjoy Karlovy Vary Like We Do

The tried and true local ritual is to take a walk to the colonnade at least once a day to sample the thermal mineral [prameny] which boast various tastes, temperatures and health benefits. We typically wrap up our promenade with a famous spa [oplatka] in hand by the main hot spring which is called Vřídlo, where the water is 73.4 °C. Since the geyser shoots water up to 12 meters high, we might get a stiff neck and require one of 52 different therapeutic procedures offered here.

The history of the city was largely written by three traditional Czech brands hailing from Karlovy Vary that became known worldwide, namely Thun porcelain, Moser glass and the Becher spirits company that produces legendary Becherovka. When we walk past their eye-catching exhibits, we proudly explain to our children why we have a saying about [zlaté české ručičky].

In early July the nation's capital unofficially moves here. A veritable convoy of Czech and international celebrities, journalists and [baťůžkáři] heads for the prestigious Karlovy Vary film festival to indulge in cinema for a solid week. Recently, even Travolta was seen here. The summer [prázdniny] start in Vary!

Those not partial to the mineral springs will certainly appreciate our tip on where to go to avoid the bath house guests. Not far from the Grandhotel Pupp is the [lanovka] station that will take you to the Diana Observation Tower. Around the tower are numerous beautiful forest trails, gazebos, benches and also a butterfly house that will surely be a hit with children and romantic couples. On the way down, get your picture taken with the statue of a [kamzík], which is the typical symbol of our city.
 

If there's one thing that we excel at, it's taking canoe trips. There's nothing more [pohoda] than renting a [loď] or raft, putting on some sunblock and slowly floating down the river past the scenic [krajina] around the Svatošské Cliffs all the way to Loket Castle. And above all, no stress. There are several stops for beer and refreshments on the way.

While one cannot say that golf is a very traditional Czech sport, for some reason it is doing extremely well in this country. In recent decades several golf clubs have sprouted up, which in addition to outstanding services also offer beautiful [výhledy] of the Krušné Mountains. So, if we can't get the ball in the cup, at least we can take in the beautiful scenery and slurp on a latté.

Therapeutic spa procedures should be alternated with mild physical activity. Boží dar is a paradise for winter sports and also where children send letters to [Ježíšek] to request Christmas presents. In beautiful Mariánské lázně we listen to a singing fountain and at the Kyselka spa drink the local [minerálka] right from the source. You can find more tips for trips here.