Things to do
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Franz Spring Pavilion
A round Empire pavilion from 1832 shelters the oldest spring still in use in the town, on the main square at the heart of the spa. Water is drawn from taps under the dome, and spa guests bring their own cups. The water comes out cold, salty and sparkling, so small sips suit a first taste.
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Glauber Springs Hall
Built in 1930, this large drinking hall in the park southeast of the main square was the last major spa building put up in the town. Its springs are rich in the Glauber's salt that gave them their name and were used as a purging cure, so a small cup is plenty. Benches line the walls inside, and the hall stays open as a shelter on wet days.
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Komorní hůrka
This low wooded hill between Cheb and Františkovy Lázně is one of the youngest volcanoes in Central Europe, with a wall of lava and cinder exposed in an old quarry. Goethe came here several times to argue about its origin, and a tunnel dug later proved it volcanic. A marked path circles the summit and is free to walk at any time.
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Soos Nature Reserve
Mud volcanoes, mineral springs and bubbling vents of carbon dioxide break through a peat bog in this national nature reserve, crossed by a wooden boardwalk of about 1.5 km. Small pavilions near the entrance cover the geology and the fossils of the area. Entry is ticketed, full opening runs from March to November, and Nový Drahov station is beside the gate.
