Skalníkovy sady Mariánské Lázně

Mariánské Lázně – The Pearl of Western Bohemia and a Botanical Treasure of Healing Waters

Mariánské Lázně is celebrated not only for its renowned healing springs but also for its magnificent parks that shape the town’s unique charm. Among them, the Václav Skalník Gardens stand out — named after their visionary creator, landscape architect Václav Skalník.

In 1817, Skalník arrived in Mariánské Lázně with a vision that transformed the natural surroundings into an enchanting English-style park centered around a grand colonnade. What made this project truly exceptional was the decision to establish green spaces before constructing buildings — giving the town a harmonious and organic feel from the start.

For over two centuries, the Skalník Gardens have provided visitors with a haven for rest and reflection. Over the years, they’ve been carefully restored and enhanced — including the renovation of the colonnade and the addition of the iconic Singing Fountain in the 1980s. A gradual revitalization began in 2007, bringing new life to the Swan Lake, walking paths, lighting features, and the memorial honoring liberation by the U.S. Army.

Today, the Skalník Gardens offer a dynamic landscape that transforms with the seasons. Spring bursts into fresh greens and vibrant blooms, summer offers cooling shade beneath leafy canopies, autumn sets the park ablaze in brilliant colors, and winter cloaks it in serene, snowy stillness.

Botany enthusiasts will delight in the Václav Skalník Dendrological Trail, which showcases over 150 species of trees and shrubs — some more than 200 years old. Highlights include the slender Norway spruce “Virgata,” the large-flowered oak, and the striking tulip tree.

A walk through the Skalník Gardens is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat or looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of Mariánské Lázně.