Detailed Snake Spring Temperature and Mineral Content

The Snake Spring, or Hadí pramen, is a relatively new addition to the public colonnades. It was made accessible during a major reconstruction in 2001. The snake spring temperature and mineral content make it stand out from hotter geysers. It flows at a steady temperature of approximately 30°C (86°F). This lower heat makes it one of the cooler springs in the city. Many people find it easier to sip than the boiling Vřídlo spring.

The mineral composition is rich and complex. It contains roughly 6.4 grams of dissolved solids per liter. You will find high levels of carbon dioxide, reaching about 1.2 grams per liter. It also features sodium, bicarbonate, and sulfate. These elements are part of why the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The water flows from a beautiful bronze snake head. This artistic spout is a popular photo spot for tourists.

Drinking from the Snake Spring is a ritual for many. The water is believed to help with metabolic disorders. Always use a traditional porcelain spa cup to drink. These cups have a special spout that protects your teeth. The mineral content can be strong, so sip slowly. Most locals recommend drinking the water while walking through the park.

10 Best Sights Near the Park Colonnade

Karlovy Vary offers a mix of nature and history. Many of the best attractions are within walking distance of each other. You can explore the spa district easily on foot. Use the official tourism resources to check for local events. Here are the top ten experiences to enjoy near the Snake Spring.

1. Name: Snake Spring Type: Mineral Spring Why go: Experience the unique 30°C water flow. Best for: Beginners and health enthusiasts. Where: Park Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Bring your own spa cup or buy one nearby.
2. Name: Orchard Spring Type: Mineral Spring Why go: It is the oldest spring in the Park Colonnade area. Best for: History lovers. Where: Basement of the Military Spa Institution. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Adjacent to the Park Colonnade. Tip: The entrance is slightly hidden but worth finding.
3. Name: Dvořák Park Type: Nature Why go: Beautiful green space named after the famous composer. Best for: Relaxation and picnics. Where: Next to the Park Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Look for the monument dedicated to Antonín Dvořák.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic Sight Why go: The largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: 5-minute walk from Park Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path. Tip: Explore the Mill Colonnade mineral springs while you are there.
5. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: Unique Experience Why go: See the hottest spring shooting 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Vřídlo Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the park. Tip: Check out the underground tour of the geyser.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Iconic Sight Why go: A stunning white wooden structure with intricate carvings. Best for: Photography. Where: Opposite the Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River. Tip: Taste the Charles IV Spring located inside.
7. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies; tower is free. Getting there: Take the funicular from the city center. Tip: Visit the butterfly house located right next to the tower.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Unique Local Experience Why go: Learn about the history of Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T.G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the spa zone. Tip: The tour includes a tasting session of different varieties.
9. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: See how world-class crystal is hand-blown. Best for: Art lovers and shoppers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: Book the factory floor tour in advance to see the glassmakers.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle on a rocky cliff. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 20-minute train or bus ride. Tip: Explore the medieval torture chambers in the castle cellar.