The Caucasian Mineral Waters are a group of sanatoriums (spa resorts) located in the North Caucasus. The region is known for its mineral springs and beautiful mountainous landscapes and has been a popular destination during the Russian Empire, and Soviet Union and even today attracting over half a million visitors annually for health tourism.
The North Caucasus region has four main towns famous for its Caucasian Mineral Waters, these include, Pyatigorsk, Zheleznovodsk, Yessentuki, and Kislovodsk. These sanatoriums are distinctive for the specific types of mineral waters and unique therapeutic properties. A popular way to consume mineral waters are from pump rooms, which are decorated with beautiful Soviet mosaics.
All four of the towns are located in Stavropol Krai, learn more about the various Caucasus regions.
Pyatigorsk
Pyatigorsk, which translates to “five mountains,” has established itself as a famous spa town in the North Caucasus region. With its distinctive mineral compositions and carbonated and sulphurous waters, the town is renowned for its mineral springs and mud therapies, which are known for their beneficial properties in treating the digestive, metabolic, and nervous systems.
Although Pyatigorsk has over 40 mineral springs, the best places to sample them are from pump rooms no.1, no.4, no.7, and no.19. Try the health benefits of Caucasian Mineral Waters on our North Caucasus tours.
Kislovodsk
Kislovodsk, which translates to “sour water” in Russian, is renowned for its Narzan mineral springs. The carbonic waters are used to treat respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. The Narzan springs are rich in minerals, and these properties give them their unique taste.
Essentuki
Essentuki is famous for its springs no.4 and no.17. You can often find bottles of Essentuki No. 4 next to popular Georgian mineral water, Borjomi. Essentuki spring water is known for its high mineral concentration which aids digestive disorders and metabolic conditions.
Essentuki draws many people throughout Russia and beyond to its largest sanatorium for therapeutic mud baths. This is a highlight for many on our North Caucasus tour as it is in between our South Ossetia and Abkhazia tours. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the health benefits!
Zheleznovodsk
The spa town is located near Mount Zheleznaya. A popular destination to visit for its beautiful scenery, but also its iron-rich mineral waters. The health properties are beneficial for digestive, metabolic, and kidney-related issues.
History of Caucasian Mineral Waters
The spring waters of Pyatigorsk were documented as early as the 14th century, by Ibn Battuta, an Arab traveller. In the 17th century, the benefits of the local water were introduced into folklore for its healing properties.
However, it was in the 18th century when Peter the Great experienced spa resorts in Belgium and the present-day Czech Republic where was inspired to search for medicinal mineral springs within the Russian Empire.
It was Alexander I of Russia, who formally recognised the North Caucasus as a Russian spa resort. This allowed doctors and researchers to understand the health benefits of Caucasian Mineral Waters. Russian Revolutionist, Vladimir Lenin introduced a new era of spa resorts and access for the citizens of the Soviet Union.
Nowadays, the Caucasus Mineral Waters and spa resorts are still highly regarded for the health benefits many people experience.
The Benefits of Caucasian Mineral Waters
Although consuming the Caucasian Mineral Waters has many benefits, however, to use water for its maximum benefits you are advised to see a specialist to find a therapeutic program that suits you. These include hydrotherapy, mud baths, and other treatments depending on your health and well-being.
In addition, the beautiful mountainous Caucasus region provides a perfect environment to relax and rejuvenate. Join us in the North Caucasus to experience the health benefits of Caucasus Mineral Waters.
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