Spas snd Health Resorts

Advertising stamps for health resorts had a popularity in the early 2Oth century. This first set is for the town of Bad Tolz, a Baverian town just a stone's throw from the Austrian border. It was known simply as Tolz when in the mid 19th century the health benefits of its spa waters were promoted. In 1899 the town was thus renamed Bad Tolz. The stamps tell us that it is famed for its iodine springs, iodine baths, and its iodine soaps - as well as its fresh air. The waters probably do have a alleviative effect for those suffereing from goitre.



I do wonder if the name was borrowed and changed by Terry Pratchett To Bad Blintz in his Discworld books.

From Germany to Austria. High up in the Alps is Bad Hofgastein offereing thermal baths at 44 degrees centigrade (I think). The baths are separate to the local hotels and as still a going concern. In fact they currently offer a family sea water bathing experience!