Die Bäder vom Bodensee, von Württemberg, Bayern, Thüringen und Harz

The non-fiction author, art historian, and physician Johann Theodor Gsell Fels (1818-1898) presents in this historical volume the baths and climatic health resorts of Lake Constance, Württemberg, Bavaria, Thuringia, and the Harz region (illustrated with 7 black-and-white plates). He wrote numerous travel and art guides, including those on Italy and Switzerland, which were mostly reissued multiple times, with revised editions even appearing a quarter-century after his death.

One example among the many baths: The salt town of Salzungen was already known in the Middle Ages, but it was only as a spa that it established its fame. In 1851, the first spa house was opened here in the building of the former sugar factory, which had been established in 1833. With much craftsmanship and taste, the large industrial building was transformed into a modern spa hotel. The fascinating façade, the beautiful hall on the ground floor, and the 'conservation, game, and reading room' catered to even elevated needs. A doctor's office was also available. The 28 guest rooms were located on the upper floor, from where one could enjoy views of the lake. A lakeside terrace, concert garden, and boat dock for gondola rides complemented the offerings. A promenade with avenues and parks was created around the lake. Few other spa towns could offer such amenities.

Reprint of the historical original edition from 1880.