Lavandula Bohemia: Visit a Czech lavender field for a magical spa escape

Just an hour from Prague, nestled in the Barrandien Geopark, and surrounded by the stunning Křivoklát Highlands, you’ll find Lavandula Bohemia, a unique retreat that is on a mission to spotlight the many benefits of the country’s growing organic herbalism culture.  

Helena Neumannová, started planting medicinal lavender across the former ancient limestone sea beds of Chodouň, a small village near Beroun not far from Karlštejn Castle, a decade ago. A trained pediatric nurse and a long-time devotee of naturopathy, Neumannová was awarded with a prestigious organic grower certificate five years ago.

Her lovely fields of purple herbs, which bloom vibrantly for several months each summer in soil clean of fertilizers, pesticides, hormones and antibiotics, have been hailed by the Czech medical community as natural organic antioxidants, antibiotics, antivirals, antidepressants and flavonoids. 

Today, Lavender Valley has become a thriving part of the local community, making Chodouň a hotspot for holistic treatment and expertise.  

In fact, the levels of exceptional biodynamic qualities detected in Lavandula Bohemia’s crop – backed by years of scientific research – were found to be up to six times higher than other organic lavenders from, for example France, Bulgaria, Israel, Croatia and Slovakia, according to Neumannová.  

The range of treatments and remedies offered here work to calm your mind, while boosting your body’s immunity and vitality.

Neumannová and her team have long partnered with Prague’s University of Chemistry and Technology to certify that Lavandula Bohemia offers holistic relief for a number of ailments, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, as well as various chronic and autoimmune diseases. 

“I believe Voltere said it best: ‘The doctors prescribe medicines of which they know little – against diseases of which they know even less – to people of whose condition they know nothing at all,’” says Neumannová. “More people are putting their trust in nature. Natural, organic resources have a proven track record of healing many of our body’s ailments if grown properly and tested against strict scientific standards like we do at Lavandula Bohemia.”

The Lavandula Bohemia team includes nurses, doctors, scientists and naturopaths who successfully combine modern medicine with medicinal lavender that have helped treat serious neurological diseases like Alzheimer's disease or multiple sclerosis as well as esophageal reflux and alopecia. In addition to the basic elements of medicinal lavender, the herb also contains important minerals, like calcium, magnesium and zinc, your body needs to stay healthy. 

With a focus on sustainability, many of the products available at Lavandula Bohemia are made onsite, from syrups and teas to raw snacks and biscuits to essential oils and skincare creams.   

Over the last several years Neumannová has worked tirelessly to build up a one-of-kind organic experience that offers a mix of aromatherapy treatments, workshops and farm-to-table dining infused with organic lavender ingredients. She invites speakers in to discuss matters near and dear to Lavandula Bohemia’s founding principles. 

The resort hosts special events throughout the year that encourage participants to relax, learn new things and have fun. For instance, a pilgrimage and climate therapy with Czech actress and writer Kristýna Janáčková as well as several upcoming seasonal festivals are planned for the coming months. 

Guests can sign up for a special degustation of Lavandula Bohemia cold brews and organic teas, learn to make their own organic creams and perfumes or book a treatment in the Spa House or Herb Hut. There is even a Spa for Children that focuses on the treatment of atopic eczema, chronic inflammation, loss of immunity and autoimmune diseases. With the Christmas season approaching, you’ll find many unique present options at Lavandula Bohemia – from spa and workshop vouchers to special gift baskets.        

Carefree walks around Lavender Valley’s extensive grounds, which now also include thousands of organic rose bushes that are rich in Vitamin C, offer captivating panoramas geared toward recharging the mind, body and soul. Down the road is Farm Stehlík, which has a selection of tasty, locally-grown products, and surrounding the town are many tranquil hiking trails to explore. 

For longer stays, to experience a week of wellbeing through holistic care or a customized 10-day rebirth program, you can reserve a Lavandula Bohemia glamping experience. Cozy tents, caravans, and tiny homes amongst its organic lavender (and the recently added rose) fields have become such a popular addition to Lavender Valley that there is a lengthy wait list.   

“We truly have something for everyone,” says Neumannová. “During the colder months we are primarily open during the weekends, but if you want to book a special event or a treatment, the Lavandula Bohemia team makes sure our facilities are at your disposal 365 days a year.”