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Kronthaler Quellen: A Historic Spa Park

Discover the historic Kronthaler Quellen spa park in Kronberg, where natural mineral springs, revitalized gardens, and scenic trails offer a refreshing escape in the Taunus region.

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The Kronthaler Quellen, nestled in Kronberg im Taunus, is a historic spa park with roots dating back to the 16th century when its mineral springs were first documented. The park's story is intertwined with the springs, which were once a major export, sold as 'Kronthal water' as far away as England and America. In the 19th century, physician Küster established spa facilities, leading to Kronthal's heyday around 1840. Today, visitors can explore the revitalized park, sample mineral water from two springs, and enjoy the Kneipp cure in the water treading pool. The park also features cycling and hiking routes.

A brief summary to Kronthaler Quellen

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a refillable bottle to sample the mineral-rich spring water directly from the Theodorusquelle and other active springs.
  • Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the well-marked Regional Park Rhine-Main route, which connects to the park.
  • Enjoy a traditional Kneipp cure by wading in the tiled water treading pool, especially refreshing on a hot day.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's open meadows and take in the scenic views of the surrounding Taunus landscape.
  • Visit the nearby Opel Zoo to extend your day of outdoor activities and explore the diverse wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kronberg train station, take bus line 85 towards Kronthal. The bus stops directly at 'Im Kronthal'. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes. A single ticket costs around €2.80.

  • Walking

    From the center of Kronberg (e.g., Berliner Platz), follow the signs towards Kronthal. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and takes about 25-30 minutes. The route is mostly downhill and well-marked. Follow the Kronthaler Straße, and you will see signs for the Quellenpark.

  • Driving

    From Kronberg, follow the signs towards Kronthal. Parking is available near the Quellenpark. Limited free parking is available along Im Kronthal street. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the parking lot near the former Seniorenstift Kronthal, a short walk from the park entrance. Parking fees are approximately €1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about Kronthaler Quellen

The Kronthaler Quellen, located in a valley between Kronberg and Mammolshain, is a historical garden and park area shaped by its natural springs. The springs, known for their mineral-rich waters, have been central to the area's history since the mid-16th century. The oldest spring, the Theodorusquelle, was already in use before 1568 and was later named after the physician Theodorus Tabernaemontanus, who first described it in 1571. The economic significance of the Kronthaler Quellen began in 1818 when physician Ferdinand Küster recognized the healing properties of the springs. He initiated the first bathing and spa operations in 1821, constructing a spa house in 1822, which was replaced by a new building in 1835. Küster received the official concession for spa operations in 1826. After his death, his son Rudolph Küster continued the business. In 1823, Frankfurt merchant Johann Adam Osterrieth entered the scene, competing with the existing spa facilities by establishing a corporation. Around 1840, Kronthal experienced its peak, gaining recognition far beyond regional borders. Osterrieth commissioned a spacious spa park in the style of an English landscape garden, characterized by sweeping paths, rare tree species, and inspired landscaping. A large pond was also part of the original park, located where the Theodorus Spring now flows. The commercial use of the springs expanded under Thiemann and later owners, including The Wilhelm's Quelle Comp. Limited, a London-based corporation. By 1880, 1.5 million clay jugs were filled, increasing to 4 million by 1888. The mineral water, branded as “Apollinis Brunnen, Bad Kronthal, Nassau,” was exported to the USA, South America, and India, earning international awards around 1880. In 1924, the city of Frankfurt am Main acquired the Kronthal and constructed the current operating building in 1925. The spa house was demolished in 1925 due to its irreparable condition. Since June 1926, the newly founded “Kronthaler Brunnen Gesellschaft m.b.H.”, with the city of Kronberg joining in November of the same year, has been distributing the water. In its first business year, 653,282 bottles were sold, and three new wells were drilled in addition to the existing three. Today, visitors can still draw mineral water from two springs. The park features a Kneipp cure basin and is part of the Regional Park Rhine-Main route, offering well-marked hiking and cycling trails to Frankfurt and beyond. The park's design, based on historical models, includes open meadows, restored pathways, and revitalized water features. The idyllic park area includes a water treading pool, a boules area, and the healing springs. The Kronthaler Quellen offer a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The park's trails connect to the Opel Zoo and the surrounding Taunus region, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and those interested in the area's spa history. The park is open daily and offers free admission, making it accessible to all visitors. The park is also home to the Nymphenquelle, Fürstenbergquelle, and Wilhelmsquelle, each offering unique mineral compositions. While the bottling plant closed in 2005, the legacy of Kronthal water continues. The park's revitalization ensures that visitors can experience the healing properties of the springs and appreciate the historical landscape. The Kronthaler Quellen remain a testament to the enduring appeal of natural springs and their role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the Taunus region. The park is a component of the Rhine-Main Regional Park route and has very well signposted hiking and cycling connections to Frankfurt and beyond.

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