West of Prague, near the German border lies several spa resort towns. The largest and most famous of these is Karlovy Vary, which has been serving the needs of health seekers since the Middle Ages. There are 12 hot springs in the area, and a huge resort complex to serve the needs of the millions of tourists (mostly German) who visit annually.

The history of the area goes back to the mid 1300s when Charles IV was impressed with the springs and the surrounding area. The springs pump out three million liters of water from 42 to 73 degrees Celsius. A variety of health restoring treatments are available including mud and peat baths. The water itself supposedly has rejuvenating effects, especially with digestive problems and metabolic disorders.