Finding the Snake Spring in Dvořák Park

The location of the Snake Spring in Karlovy Vary sits in the heart of the spa zone. You will find it in the northern part of the historic center. This area is known as Dvořák Park, a lush green space perfect for walking. The spring itself is housed within the Park Colonnade, also called Sadová kolonáda in Czech.

This structure is famous for its intricate white cast-iron design. It was built in the late 19th century by famous architects. The park provides a quiet escape from the busier parts of the city. You will see many locals and tourists relaxing on the nearby benches. The spring is designated as Spring Number 15 in the city’s official list.

The surrounding area is very flat, making it easy to navigate on foot. You can enjoy the view of the Teplá River as you approach the park. Many people start their spa walk here because the water is cooler. It serves as a gentle introduction to the city's mineral springs. Always keep an eye out for the white pillars of the colonnade.

How to Reach the Snake Spring Step-by-Step

Finding this specific spring requires following a simple path through the spa district. Follow these steps to reach the destination efficiently. The route is scenic and takes you past several other famous landmarks.

1. Start at the Mill Colonnade: Begin your walk at the large Mill Colonnade. This is the largest colonnade in the city. Walk north along the river path for about five minutes. Typical cost: Free.
2. Enter Dvořák Park: Continue walking until you see the entrance to the green park. You will pass the Military Spa Institution on your left. Common mistake: Turning back too early before reaching the green trees.
3. Locate the Park Colonnade: Look for the white, ornate metal structure. It stands out against the green grass. This walk takes roughly 10 minutes from the city center. Time: 10–15 minutes.
4. Find the Snake Spout: Walk to the very end of the colonnade. Look for the bronze snake head mounted on the wall. This is where the mineral water flows. Avoid using plastic bottles as the minerals can react with the plastic.

Once you arrive, you can drink the water for free. Most people spend about 15 to 20 minutes here. You can sit on the benches nearby to enjoy the atmosphere. Be sure to bring your own cup or buy one from a local shop. The water flows constantly, so there is no need to wait for a timer.

Essential Preparation for Your Visit

Before you head to the location of the Snake Spring in Karlovy Vary, you should prepare. Having the right tools makes the experience much better. You should check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for any event updates. The park can get busy during the annual film festival or summer weekends.

• Spa Cup: Buy a traditional porcelain cup with a spout. These are sold at almost every souvenir stand.
• Comfortable Shoes: The park paths are paved but you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Water Knowledge: The Snake Spring is about 30 degrees Celsius. It is much cooler than the Vřídlo geyser.
• Map or GPS: Keep a digital map ready on your phone for easy navigation.

The spring is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is no entrance fee to enter the park or the colonnade. However, most shops nearby close by 6:00 PM. If you want to buy a cup, arrive earlier in the afternoon. Early morning visits are best if you want to avoid large tour groups.

Choosing Your Route to the Park Colonnade

Your starting point determines the best way to reach the spring. If you are staying near the Hot Spring Colonnade, a walk is best. The path is flat and follows the river through the beautiful spa district. This walk takes about 15 minutes at a leisurely pace.

If you are coming from the main train or bus station, use public transit. You can check schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Take bus number 1, 2, or 13 to the 'Lázně III' stop. From there, it is a very short two-minute walk into the park.

For those with limited mobility, the bus is the highly recommended option. The area around the Park Colonnade is wheelchair accessible. If it is raining, the colonnade itself provides excellent shelter. You can walk under the roof while still enjoying the park views. Decide based on your energy level and the current weather conditions.

Troubleshooting and Common Navigation Issues

Even with a map, some travelers struggle to find the exact location of the Snake Spring in Karlovy Vary. The city has many colonnades that look similar at first glance. Use this list to solve common problems during your search.

• Wrong Colonnade: Ensure you are at the white metal Park Colonnade, not the stone Mill Colonnade.
• Google Maps Errors: Sometimes GPS signals bounce off the valley walls. Follow the river north if you get lost.
• Construction: Check the Visit Czechia portal for any major park renovations.
• Hidden Spout: The snake head is at the end of the structure. Walk all the way through the covered area.
• Crowded Paths: During peak hours, the path may be blocked by tour groups. Walk on the grass if needed.
• Spring Number: Look for the small plaque that says 'Pramen 15' (Spring 15).
• Closed Shops: If you forget a cup, some hotels nearby sell them even after souvenir stands close.

If you still cannot find it, ask a local for 'Sadová kolonáda'. Most residents speak basic English and are happy to point the way. The park is a major landmark, so it is hard to miss once you are in the area. Look for the Dvořák monument nearby to confirm your location.