One of the major attractions of Karlovy Vary, other than the well-known spa culture, is the Grandhotel Pupp! The historical hotel dates all the way back to the 18th century (impressive). It is known for its stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and impeccable service, catering to the needs of discerning travelers with unparalleled attention to detail. It, therefore, attracts prestigious clientele, including royalty and celebrities (you can see photos of prominent people who have visited throughout). It's even been used in films such as James Bond's Casino Royal and Queen Latifa's Last Holiday. Moreover, its prime location overlooking the picturesque Teplá River and proximity to Karlovy Vary's renowned thermal springs further elevate its appeal, offering guests a truly immersive experience in the heart of this enchanting spa town.
So of COURSE I had to stay there!
Note: It always makes me sad when I visit places during the winter. Lush greenery and beautiful blue skies add charm to any city. The dead brown and greys of winter sadly suck some of the life out of photos for me. So, while everything you see here will be shown in its natural beauty, the town is most likely more beautiful and vibrant late Spring to early Fall.
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We drove from Prague, which is about an hour and a half drive. There were no issues along our route; just be warned, you'll mostly drive through the sparse and slightly rundown countryside. I'd fill your gas before heading too far outside the city!
Pertinent Details
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Address:
Mírové nám. 2, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia
Price:
Our riverview room was around 250 euros per night with wellness access. The cheapest rooms go for around 200 euros per night.
I'm not used to staying at hotels where they valet your car and take your luggage without request (I'm not usually this fancy). So, I was a little confused about how to proceed at first! We were instructed to drive past the parking lot (to the left of the exterior main entrance) and park in the circle in front. Then head to check in (to the right of the entrance inside), giving them your keys so they can collect your things and eventually bring your luggage to your room. If you like to tip, I'd have a little something prepared! It all happened so fast!
Great customer service.
Directly across from the entryway is this beautiful waiting area.
Perfect spot to stop and take a photo!
Check-in is to the left of the main entrance and beautifully decorated.
We had a little chuckle at our very "not-at-all-fancy" luggage hanging off of their golden cart in the picturesque lobby.
Off to our room!
Please click & enjoy the slideshow below. ⬇️
Please enjoy the short video clip below! 👇
Our room was large with tall ceilings. Sparsely decorated, but had everything we needed!
We made sure to make good use of the robes and slippers we were offered.
These came in handy when visiting the pool and spa portion of the hotel. I was on a bit of a budget due to my upcoming move, so I didn't schedule a massage or any treatments, but I wish I could have!
Note: Don't visit the hotel solely for the pool. The pool/sauna area was small, especially for a hotel of this size. I'm sure it wasn't originally designed with a modern pool in mind since it was built in the 1700s.
Note: You need to wear a bathing suit in most areas of the pool. The saunas are textile-free (you hang up your robe and take a towel/sheet in to sit on). I completely ignored that the hotel had these features and didn't bring a bathing suit, but thankfully the spa concierge offered me a suit for around 40 euros. They have emergency bathing suits available! Warning, though, I'm about a size 10/12 right now, and I had to get their XL, and there was only one size larger offered.
Pictured above, are the bathroom amenities offered.
The hotel also offers a tempting and lavishly decorated Casino and a helpful Activity Schedule to aid in planning your visit. I currently see a wine festival listed during the month of August, which is right up my alley!
I will say that I was expecting a little more upscale furnishing for a five-star hotel, but perhaps it's because we were in the cheaper rooms and the nicer ones are better furnished. There were also odd furniture placements, such as the coffee machine being up against the bedroom wall instead of on the outer wall. Thus, if you were to make coffee in the morning, the noise would be easily heard in the bedroom.
Note: Don't be like me and not notice the pillow menu offered next to the bed. All night I was like, "damn, this pillow is so hard." Only to wake up the next day and notice that the hotel had a freaking menu that I could have ordered off of! In my defense, I've never had this option before. That's fancy people stuff (lol).
Please click & view the slideshow below! ⬇️
Above you'll see the room service menu that was offered. Prices are in "crowns" or koruna.
Currently 100 koruna is 4.27 dollars or 3.96 euros.
I, of course, had to buy a sipping cup from the hotel itself! You can find these at the display near check-in and purchase at the front desk.
Want to know more about these sippy cups? Head to my next blog post about the town of Karlovy Vary itself (it should launch later today or tomorrow)!
Thanks to my friend Nichole for booking a room with a river view (and her husband Rene for paying for our stay for my birthday)!
Which, as mentioned above, is most likely much more stunning late spring to fall.
After checking in and exploring the town, we decided to hit the Pupp Café! Their themed cake was ok, but the chocolate caramel puff dessert was delicious. I also really enjoyed their zucchini flatbread sandwich. It was pretty busy, so I'd try to make reservations if possible (unsure if that is possible).
If you would like to check out the other restaurants/bars the hotel offers, click here!
Note: For planning purposes, if you would like to hit up their bar, be aware that it is closed (to my knowledge) on Sundays and Mondays. We visited on a Sunday, and I was bummed that we couldn't try it out. I didn't even think about that logistical point, even after being in Europe for two years!
Please click & view the slideshow below! 👇
When exploring the hotel, take time to appreciate the intricacy and beauty of all its features!
Please enjoy the short video clip below! 👇
It may have been drab and dreary on the outside, but inside spring had sprung!
Breakfast a buffet held in a stunningly decorated room behind the reception desk. We were greeted upon entry, offered a glass of champagne, and seated at a table. You do need to wait to be seated upon entry.
Please click & enjoy the slideshow below! ⬇️
I was especially excited to see a slab of honeycomb on the buffet!
Please enjoy the short video clip below! 👇
Some reviews commented on the strangeness of a buffet at a five-star hotel. I can't comment on this personally, but it might be a little weird. I'm thinking those in the more expensive rooms get room service or a specially catered breakfast? Maybe?
Overall, I'm grateful that I was able to have this experience, no matter the season!
Please enjoy the short video clip below. 👇
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