The dilapidated Hotel Kavkaz in Mariánské Lázně has a chance for salvation.

Mariánské Lázně – The former hotel Kavkaz in Mariánské Lázně could undergo a complete renovation. The owner, the company Léčebné lázně Mariánské Lázně, is preparing a project to complete the rear section of the building, which had to be demolished years ago due to structural issues. At the same time, part of the hotel is being repaired. The total costs for the nearly 30-year unused building are estimated to be one billion crowns, said company director Karel Kalivoda to ČTK. The Mariánské Lázně health spa belongs to the Ensana Health Spa Hotels group, which also has hotels in other Central European countries.

In the abandoned hotel, ceilings collapsed four years ago, and entire rear sections of the building had to be completely demolished. "Every year, maintenance work and structural fortification of the building are carried out to prevent further deterioration. This year, a roof reconstruction, balcony repair, and partial facade restoration on the front of the building are planned to significantly improve the view into Goethe Square,” said Kalivoda. An investment of 2.5 million crowns is planned for this year, and the company has already spent 12 million on repairs.

With the completion of Kavkaz, the building could have up to 138 rooms. Plans for the rear section include a large pool, wellness center, and facilities for client relaxation. According to the director, most of the construction costs should fall on the building's owner. However, the company also wants to attract an additional investor who could cover up to half of the costs.

The building, from the 1920s, was once one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, and according to heritage conservationists, its architecture and significance in the history of the city can be compared to the Grandhotel Pupp in Karlovy Vary. It hosted several notable visitors to Mariánské Lázně, including English King Edward VII and Johann Wolfgang Goethe with the young Ulrika von Levetzow.

The health spa is the largest spa company in Mariánské Lázně, with a total capacity of 1,647 beds. It offers traditional treatments as well as relaxation and wellness stays. Currently, it operates six hotels for spa guests following a setback caused by the coronavirus epidemic, while another is accommodating refugees from Ukraine.