Did you know that Enghien-les-Bains history began with a smelly stream? In 1766, priest Louis Cotte found a spring that fed from the Montmorency pond. Now, that pond is the Lake of Enghien-les-Bains.
Let me tell you more about this amazing place Enghien-les-Bains. In 1772, pharmacist Louis Guillaume Le Veillard got permission to build thermal baths. By 1821, Enghien-les-Bains was booming because its water was sold. That year, Doctor Péligot found another spring. He built the first real thermal facilities.
King Louis XVIII even got better from a leg ulcer thanks to the water. It came from the Cotte springs. Today, it is known as the King’s spring. Word spread fast through Paris. Enghien-les-Bains became a trendy spot. Alexandre Dumas and George Sand loved this romantic lake.
Now, Enghien-les-Bains is the only spa town in the Ile de France region. It boasts ultra-modern facilities and 160 doctors are experts here. They offer treatments using the remarkable waters. These waters are rich in sulphur and calcium. Enghien-les-Bains water has carbon dioxide. It also contains bicarbonates and calcium. You will find magnesium and sodium too.
The waters help with decongestion. They also fight allergies and bacteria. The thermal baths are known for treating respiratory problems. A 21-day program is available. It includes 18 days of treatment.
There are also shorter programs of six to ten days. These help with quitting smoking. They can help with voice problems too.
For wellness, visit the Spa Diane Barrière. It offers views of the lake and Paris. You can enjoy massages and slimming coaching here. Anti-aging and anti-stress treatments are also available. The spa has a steam room, saunas, and a fitness area.
Enghien-les-Bains had about ten springs in the early 1900s. Eight were used by the public in 1865. In 2013, three new points were built to capture the sulphureted waters.
The charm of Enghien-les-Bains extends beyond its waters. The town is a UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts since 2013. The Centre-des-Arts is a hub for performing and digital arts. Don’t miss Les Bains Numériques. It is a festival of digital arts.
Enghien-les-Bains has a vibrant cultural scene. The Barrière Enghien Jazz Festival takes place here. The Casino offers entertainment too.
Enghien-les-Bains is great for MICE tourism. It has conference centers for up to 700 people. The town is expert in hosting receptions. With spa services, a casino, and a golf course, it is perfect for events.
The town of Enghien-les-Bains was born in 1850. It got its name from the Lordship of Enghien in Belgium. The Prince of Condé changed the name of Montmorency to Enghien in 1689.
In 1846, the railroad came to Enghien-les-Bains. More Parisians visited the lake. On August 7, 1850, the National Assembly created the town. New baths replaced the old ones in 1863.
Many famous people moved here. Princess Mathilde and Emile de Girardin lived by the lake. Napoleon III visited his cousin’s parties here.
The first games appeared around 1864. A casino was built in 1878. In 1901, a spectacular casino was started. It looked like a white yacht. In 1919, gambling was banned near Paris. Enghien-les-Bains suffered. The law was relaxed in 1931.
Enghien-les-Bains is a unique place. It blends health, culture, and history. The town has kept its spa architecture. Walking around, you’ll see castles and villas. Enghien-les-Bains offers something for everyone.