Švihov U Klatov

Švihov U Klatov combines a distinctive castle complex with walks and longer trails through the history of the town. Particularly unusual is Švihov Castle itself: The royal judge Půta Švihovský had it built at the end of the 15th century. It was designed as an artificial island and protected by two moats fed with water from the Úhlava River. Thus, a stay here focuses not just on a single historic building, but on a complex with a clearly recognizable relationship to the water. The artificial island setting and the moats are part of the castle’s original design and connect its architectural history with the landscape along the river.

Švihov Castle and Trails of Different Lengths

The “In the Footsteps of Cinderella” trail begins directly in front of the castle. It leads approximately 3 kilometers to Mezihoří, offering a manageable route that clearly differs from the longer Švihov educational trail. The latter is 26 kilometers long. Those who prefer a shorter outing can choose the “Walk Around the Švihov Sights”. This is an easy walk around the castle and to other sights in Švihov. The three options therefore differ not only in length, but also in their routes: The trail to Mezihoří leads from the castle there, the educational trail extends over 26 kilometers, while the walk connects the castle with sights in the town.

Historic Sites in the Town

The walk to Švihov’s sights also leads to Jewish cemeteries. They date from the period when Švihov was a center of the Jewish community in the surrounding area. The walk also includes a visit to the Church of Saint Wenceslas. The former Hospital Church of Saint John the Evangelist was probably built at the beginning of the 14th century. Its probable construction date therefore predates the construction of the castle by several centuries. The Church of Saint Giles is considered the oldest building in Švihov. The stops on the walk thus range from local Jewish history and the Church of Saint Wenceslas to religious buildings with a medieval past.

Arriving at the Castle

For those arriving by car, the distance between the parking lot and the castle is specified precisely: The Švihov Castle parking lot is approximately 100 meters from the castle. From there, a level walk of one to two minutes leads to the complex. This short connection is separate practical information from the hiking trails and does not describe their length or route. The reference to the level path applies exclusively to access from the parking lot to the castle.

When choosing accommodation, you can therefore first decide whether the historic castle complex, a short walk, or a longer route is your main focus. For your further search at this destination level, you can also find Svata Katerina, Chudenín, Zelezná Ruda, Hamry Na Šumavě, Dešenice, Ostruzno, Hojsova Stráž and Branickov.

For the higher-level travel overview: Okres Klatovy.