In Czech Republic, there are several hundreds of natural mineral springs dispersed in more than thirty spa towns. The mineral water is used for post-operative rehabilitations or just for relaxation.
Peat wraps of curative mud and gas injections have been proved to have healing effects. Various therapeutic methods are applied, you can get massages, go to an underwater therapy, or have a pearl bath. The costs are much lower than in other European resorts.
The most famous spa in Czech Republic is Karlovy Vary (also called Carlsbad). It is the largest spa in the country and has more than 300 thermal hot springs. The reason for such a huge number of hot springs is because the surrounding area of the town was volcanically active before. The legend says that on one of the Charles IV hunting trips, he accidentally discovered these springs and he decided to found a town there. And indeed, it was founded in 1370 and named after him. Today, the mineral water and mud are used to treat digestive and musculoskeletal problems, diabetes and obesity.
Near Karlovy Vary, there is the town of Františkovy Lázně. It is the first spa town with peat-pulp baths founded in the world. 1792, the foundation year, was also the year of the coronation of the Czech king Franz I, so they named it after him. Treatment of heart and blood circulation illnesses as well as of locomotive disorders and gynaecological issues like infertility is provided here. In the same western area of Czech Republic is also located another spa town Mariánské Lázně. Kidneys and urinary tract is treated there.
Still in Bohemia part, in the north there is the town of Jánské Lázně, where people go to cure their post-operative and post-injury traumas, or nervous and muscular disorders. In the centre of the country, other spa town is Poděbrady.
In Moravia, the town of Karlova Studánka in Jeseníky area is known for fresh mountain air and its beneficial effects on health. For that reason, respiratory and nervous system illnesses is treated there. Luhačovice is another Moravian frequently visited spa town.