Kudowa-Zdrój is much more than just a name on the map of health resorts in the Kłodzko region. It is a place with a unique, almost magical atmosphere, where the elegance of a Prussian resort meets the wildness of one of the oldest mountains in Europe, and the Polish language smoothly changes into Czech just around the corner. Situated in a picturesque valley at the foot of the Table Mountains, right next to the border, it is an oasis of peace, a health center and an ideal gateway to discovering two countries during one walk.
As the hosts of “Gołąbek”, although rooted on the eastern side of the Kłodzko Valley, we have great respect and admiration for Kudowa-Zdrój. It is the jewel in the crown of our region. That’s why we have created a guide for you that has never existed before – in-depth, full of passion and practical tips. We will discover the secrets of its mineral character, we will trace its turbulent history, we will visit all the key monumentsand we will take you to the most beautiful trails to the Czech mountains class=”ng-star-inserted”>. Fasten your seat belts, we are going on a journey to the heart of Europe.
Source of Health and Vitality: Mineral Character of Kudowa Waters
The foundation on which Kudowa’s fame was built are its unique mineral waters. They have been attracting visitors here for hundreds of years, seeking relief from ailments and improving their fitness.
Arsenic Sorrels – A Unique Treasure in Europe
The mineral character Kudowa-Zdrój is unique. There are naturally carbonated waters calledsorrel, with a rare chemical composition. These are arsenic-iron and boron waters. Although the word “arsenic” may cause concern, in appropriate, trace therapeutic doses it has proven healing properties – it stimulates hematopoietic processes and improves metabolism. Thanks to this, Kudowa waters are used to treat heart diseases, anemia, hormonal disorders and obesity.
History of Medicine and Mineral Water Pump Room in the Spa Park
The first primitive water intakes existed here already in the 17th century. The real development of balneology took place in the Prussian era. The heart of spa life is the beautiful, larch-wooded Mineral Water Pump Room located in the Spa Park. Inside, dating from the beginning of the 20th century, you can taste water from various springs, such as “Śniadecki” or “Moniuszko”. A walk through the historic interiors of the pump room with a drink in your hand is a ritual that connects generations of spa visitors.
Time Travel: The Turbulent History of Kudowa-Zdrój
Kudowa-Zdrój, like the entire Kłodzko Land, has an extremely rich and complicated history. For centuries it was part of the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Habsburg Monarchy, and then Prussia.
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From the Forgotten Village to the Pearl of Prussian Resorts: Although the first mention of the village comes from the 14th century, its real history begins in the 18th century, when it came under Prussian rule after the Silesian Wars. It was then that the values of its waters were appreciated and investments in spa infrastructure began.
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Royal Guests and the Golden Age of Spas: The 19th and early 20th centuries were the golden age of Kudowa (then Bad Kudowa). The most beautiful sanatorium buildings were built then (such as “Zameczek” – a former guest house for the aristocracy), the Spa Theater and the wonderful Spa Park. The spa was visited by elites from all over Germany and Europe, including the Prussian King Frederick William III and even the future Prime Minister of Great Britain, Winston Churchill.
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Polska Kudowa – New Chapter after 1945: After World War II, the city, along with the entire Kłodzko Land, was annexed to Poland. There was a complete population exchange, but the spa character of the city was continued and developed, making Kudowa-Zdrój one of the most popular resorts in the country.
Sights You Can’t Miss
Spa Park: Green Heart of the City
It is one of the most beautiful spa parks in Poland, designed in the English style. Walking along its alleys, you can admire not only the aforementioned Pump Room and the Spa Theater, but also rich, exotic plants – rhododendrons, magnolias, agaves and prickly pears, which feel great in the park’s mild microclimate.
Skull Chapel in Czermna: Memento Mori
This is an absolutely unique place in Poland and one of three such places in Europe. A small baroque chapel whose walls and ceiling are lined with thousands of carefully arranged human skulls and tibias. These are the remains of victims of the Silesian Wars and the cholera epidemic of the 18th century. The chapel, created by priest Wacław Tomaszek, is not a macabre curiosity, but a deep, philosophical symbol of Memento Mori – a reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death.
Gateway to Two Countries: Tourist Trails from Kudowa-Zdrój
Kudowa’s location is its greatest advantage for active tourists.
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Polish Table Mountains: From Kudowa-Zdrój, the red trail leads straight to Błędne Rocks (approx. 2.5 h), one of the greatest wonders of the Table Mountains. This is the perfect route for a rewarding full-day hike.
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Czech Mountains and Rock Towns: The border is at your fingertips here.
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Walk to Náchod: You can literally walk to the Czech town of Náchod, visit the Renaissance castle towering above it, and taste the local beer at one of the inns.
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Adršpašsko-Teplické Skály: Just a few dozen minutes by car separates Kudowa from the most famous Czech rock town. This is an absolute “must see” for every nature lover.
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Kudowa-Zdrój as Part of a Greater Adventure
Kudowa-Zdrój and the Table Mountains are the western pearl of the Kłodzko Valley. However, to fully know and understand the soul of our region, you also need to experience its eastern part – wild, majestic and raw, the heart of which is the Śnieżnik Massif. A stay at “Gołąbek” in Stronie Śląskie is a perfect complement to a visit to Kudowa. Here you will find silence, proximity to primeval nature, trails leading to the highest peaks and a completely different type of energy. When planning a longer stay in the Kłodzko region, it is worth dividing it into two parts to experience its full, fascinating spectrum – from an elegant health resort to pristine mountain wilderness.
