Imagine soaking in a steaming, mineral-rich bath in the very suite once favoured by a British king, all for a fraction of the price of a UK spa weekend. This is the reality awaiting travellers in the enchanting Czech town of Marianske Lazne, a historic wellness destination that remains a remarkably affordable secret for British holidaymakers.
A Royal Pedigree at a Pocket-Friendly Price
King Edward VII first visited this elegant spa town west of Prague in 1897 and returned regularly for years, indulging in weeks-long restorative retreats. Today, visitors can follow in his footsteps at hotels like the five-star Ensana Nove Lazne, a majestic neo-Renaissance residence where rooms can be secured for an astonishing £43 per person, per night in January, including a buffet breakfast and sparkling wine.
The town itself, part of the UNESCO-listed ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’, is a picture of grandeur with colourful buildings, manicured parks, and imposing colonnades. Yet, despite its pedigree and beauty, it offers exceptional value. As journalist Saskia O’Donoghue discovered, swapping Britain's pricey spas for this ‘Europe's best-kept secret’ is a revelation for those seeking luxury on a budget.
More Than Wellness: A Medical Spa Tradition
Dr Marketa Hovorkova, chief physician at Ensana Health Spa Hotels, explains a key distinction: ‘We're more spa-focused here, rather than wellness.’ In the Czech tradition, a spa is a place for genuine medical recuperation. For generations, people have been prescribed multi-week stays to treat ailments under expert supervision.
This medical foundation means visitors enjoy treatments designed for genuine therapeutic benefit, overseen by professionals. At Ensana Nove Lazne, guests can choose from a vast menu of treatments starting from around £11, or simply enjoy the ornate Roman baths, whirlpools, and saunas. For a different flavour of luxury, the recently renovated Falkensteiner Spa Resort offers day passes for just £32.
Healing Waters and How to Reach Them
The town’s magic flows from its springs. Marianske Lazne is uniquely a ‘climatic spa’, boasting all four natural healing resources: mineral water, healing peat mud, CO2 gas, and climate. Visitors can sample the famous waters, each with different properties, at the iconic Maxim Gorky Colonnade.
Locals sip from traditional porcelain spa cups with built-in spouts—a practical feature, as the mineral-rich water can stain teeth. Dr Hovorkova recommended the Karolina Spring, known for its high magnesium content. Beyond the water, the town offers traditional cuisine like dill soup and its own herbal liqueur, Maria, best enjoyed at the Edward Cafe.
Getting there is straightforward and cheap. Ryanair flights from London to Prague can cost from as little as £33 return, with a scenic train journey from Prague centre to Marianske Lazne costing a mere £11 one way. Other accommodation options include the four-star Orea Spa Hotel Cristal, with rates from £23 per person per night including breakfast and spa access.
For Britons craving a winter escape that combines royal history, proven wellness traditions, and stunning architecture without draining their savings, Marianske Lazne is an undeniable and delightful revelation.
