BTN News: One of the most intriguing trends in the modern wellness industry has roots that stretch back to the beer-loving heart of Europe: the Czech Republic. Imagine soaking in a giant oak tub filled with 1,000 liters of warm, bubbling water infused with hops, malt, and even unfiltered premium Czech beer. This is not just a quirky indulgence; it’s a unique experience offered by beer spas like Chateau Spa Beerland in Prague. Here, in a historic building where the famous 16th-century astronomer Tycho Brahe once lived, wellness seekers can immerse themselves in a tradition that, while it may not be as ancient as some claim, offers a blend of relaxation, skin benefits, and a deep connection to local culture.
In the dimly lit, historically adorned spa rooms of Chateau Spa Beerland, guests are guided through a ritual that begins with adding key ingredients to the bath. Nikola Skypalova, a spa assistant, explains the benefits of each: hops to open pores and reduce stress, beer yeast packed with vitamin B for youthful skin, and malt for an overall boost to wellbeing. These ingredients, combined with the warm water, create a soothing brew that’s said to improve circulation, relax muscles, and nourish the skin.
As you sink into the warm, frothy mixture, the air around you fills with the earthy, comforting scent of beer. The experience is enhanced by details like the option to pour yourself a glass of dark Krušovice beer, brewed since 1581, or enjoy a slice of beer-infused bread. For those who really want to get into the spirit, there’s even a traditional Czech straw bed nearby, where you can rest after your soak, feeling the rough texture further stimulate your skin.
This seemingly eccentric form of relaxation is part of a broader trend that has spread far beyond the borders of the Czech Republic. Beer spas can now be found around the world, from Iceland and Japan to the United States, Spain, Mexico, and Argentina. The global appeal lies not only in the combination of spa relaxation with beer—two universally loved pleasures—but also in the added allure of a distinctly European wellness tradition.
In Belgium, for example, the newly opened Bath & Barley in Bruges allows visitors to personalize their beer bath by selecting from different varieties of hops. Similarly, in France, the Taaka Beer Spa in Strasbourg has attracted local curiosity and enthusiasm since its opening in 2022. These beer spas offer more than just a bath; they provide an immersive experience that taps into local culture and history, offering a fresh, fun way to engage with the tradition of beer.
But is there more to these beer baths than just novelty? Some experts believe so. While historical claims of beer bathing date back millennia, with Czech spas often referencing a supposed royal bather, there’s little evidence that beer was historically used in baths with any significant purpose. However, the wellness benefits of beer ingredients are supported by modern science. According to Dr. Cindy Jones, a biochemist from Colorado Aromatics, beer contains several components that are beneficial for the skin. Malted grains and yeast are rich in vitamin B, which can enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce hyperpigmentation. Hops, on the other hand, contain powerful antioxidants like xanthohumol, known for its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, and humulone, which has antibacterial benefits that could help heal the skin.
Beyond skincare, the relaxing effects of hops have been well-documented, with studies showing that hop extracts can reduce anxiety, alleviate mild depression, and promote better sleep. Given these potential benefits, it’s no surprise that even major beer companies like Carlsberg have jumped on the trend, launching their Beer Beauty line in 2015. Similarly, Czech beauty brand Manufaktura has developed a range of hop and barley extract-based bath salts and products, though they might lack the full beer spa experience.
In the end, whether you’re drawn to the idea of lounging in a tub of beer for its skin benefits, its stress-relieving properties, or simply the novelty of it all, beer spas offer a uniquely European twist on wellness that continues to capture the imagination of people worldwide. The blend of history, culture, and the undeniable appeal of beer makes for an experience that’s both indulgent and enriching, allowing you to soak not just in warm water, but in centuries of tradition and expertise.
