Vichy

VICHY (Vichy), a resort in France, 365 km from Paris, on the Allier River, at the foot of the Auvergne mountains, in a valley protected by mountains to the northwest and southeast (260 m above sea level). The climate is mild, with July and the first half of August being very hot. The therapeutic resources: about 50 mineral springs, belonging to the group of alkaline-carbonate waters, with temperatures from +16.5° to +45.25°, containing mainly sodium ions (from 4.17 to 5.3 g), sodium bicarbonate, and a significant amount (from 0.768 to 2.183 g) of free carbonic acid. The most important springs: Grande-Grille with temperature 45.25°, Hôpital 33°, Chomel 42.6°, Lucas 26°, Célestins 16.7°, Mesdames 16.5°, Parc 21°, Lardy 22.3°. The water is used in the form of baths, for drinking and inhalation. The main indications: diseases of the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, gastrointestinal diseases, metabolic diseases, diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract, functional disorders of the cardiovascular system. Extensive bathing facilities, physical therapy, mechanotherapy, X-ray and other departments. Season from May 1 to October 15. Over 100,000 visitors annually. The bottling and export of 'Vichy' water reaches 25 million bottles per year.