Marianske Lazne

Mariánské Lázně, also known as Marienbad, is a spa town in western Bohemia, within the Karlovy Vary region, sitting at roughly 600 metres above sea level on the edge of the protected Slavkov Forest. Established in the 19th century, much of its layout was shaped by landscape architect Václav Skalník, who designed the extensive parks that still define the town centre. The cast-iron colonnade, decorated with frescoes, and the singing fountain in front of it are the focal points of the spa quarter, surrounded by Art Nouveau and neo-Renaissance buildings. The town's reputation rests on its mineral springs, traditionally used to treat musculoskeletal and respiratory conditions, and it has historically drawn notable visitors such as Goethe and Chopin. An Orthodox church with distinctive onion domes, built for Russian spa guests, also stands in the area, alongside one of the country's oldest golf courses. The continental climate, with mild summers and cool winters, suits a stay centred on relaxation, forest walks and traditional spa treatments.