Smrdáky is a small, idyllic resort town in the foothills of the White Carpathian Mountains in western Slovakia. The water in its healing spring has one of the highest concentrations of sulphur in Europe, making it among the most effective.
Folk legends say that Smrdáky’s mineral springs were discovered by a shepherd, who cured his sore legs by dipping them in the strong-smelling water. The story spread fast, and more and more people began visiting the healing spring.
The earliest written mention of Smrdáky dates back to 1436. Originally, the settlement was known as Nová Ves. Smrdáci means “Stinkers” – as the farmers from the area with strange-smelling springs were called by villagers from neighbouring towns when they met at regional fairs. Smrdáky is first referred to as a spa town in writing in 1617. The therapeutic use of its mineral springs has been documented since 1740. From 1832 to 1883, Jozef Vietoris, who owned the land surrounding the spring, had the first spa house built. In 1839 he also had an imposing mansion built for his family, whose Classical gateway became the symbol for the spa. The spa park, with its rare shrubbery, was created by draining the nearby swamps. Spanning 16 hectares, the park remains a popular relaxation area for Smrdáky’s guests.
From 1935 to 1938, Smrdáky’s mineral baths enjoyed their most successful years. In those days, up to 400 guests a day were treated during the peak seasons. In 1950, the site’s precious mineral spring was secured by drilling, and in 1953 further drilling reached the deeper, primary spring. Further, even more abundant hydrogen sulphide springs were discovered and put into use after renewed drilling in 1957. Though small in size, Smrdáky soon developed into a major Slovakian spa town.
Smrdáky’s mineral springs and healing clay are unique natural resources and the remains of a pre-historic sea. One litre of healing water contains over 3,100 mg of minerals, including an unusually high concentration of hydrogen sulphide. No other spa in the world has water with such a high sulphide content. The sulphur clay is formed when the water flows through the sediment. It is just as powerful as the water, so it is also used for spa treatments in Smrdáky.
The hydrogen sulphide in the mineral water is absorbed by the skin and works its effects on the body. It is especially effective for treating skin diseases as well as musculoskeletal diseases. During spa treatments, the water is used in partial- or full-body baths and in mud packs. The spa treatments at our three Smrdáky hotels are all designed based on the results of a medical examination we provide for you. Our experienced doctors put together a treatment plan that’s tailored to you. Depending on your needs, this plan can include:
Treatments for:
Smrdáky’s powerful mineral waters can effectively reduce or treat a whole range of complaints or illnesses.
These include:
Smrdáky is a picturesque town surrounded by a hilly landscape. You’ll find rustic flair, serene nature, clean air, and a small spa with a long tradition where you can fully rejuvenate. The centre consists of an architecturally striking complex of buildings. They have been renovated and modernised twice, but still maintain their original character. The large spa park and Smrdáky’s sports and leisure offerings add variety to your spa holiday. This spa town is also the perfect starting point for exploring the region.
Smrdáky is a hidden treasure for health and spa tourists. It is smaller than other spa towns, making it especially charming. Our three hotels in Smrdáky make your stay as pleasant as possible. So why not book a trip to beautiful Smrdáky?
Smrdáky is a hidden treasure for health and spa tourists. It is smaller than other spa towns, making it especially charming. Our three hotels in Smrdáky make your stay as pleasant as possible.
So why not book a trip to beautiful Smrdáky?
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