Stellplatz - water mill Švihov #6350

A fully equipped campground for RVs and trailers located right next to Švihov Water Castle.
The campground is situated on the grounds of the adjacent watermill, offering a direct view of the castle itself. But there’s more to our area than just a tour of the castle. There are plenty of attractions and cycling and hiking trails in the area, which we’d be happy to recommend. For example, the Černín family’s estate in Chudenice, the bike trail to Klatovy, hikes up the surrounding hills, or the castle in neighboring Červené Poříčí.

At the stellplatz, you’ll find:
- 4 truly spacious paved sites for RVs/trailers, where you’ll fit comfortably even with an awning
- A water and electricity hookup is available at each site (included in the price).
- A disposal point for chemical toilets.
- A gray water drain (access ramp).
- A garden for recreation.
- Swimming in the irrigation channel with steps leading into the water
- A self-service refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer, and wine.

Early check-in, when the campground isn’t full, can easily be arranged. Likewise, check-out can be later if there isn’t a line at the gate—which, incidentally, doesn’t happen very often...
The gate is usually open; if it’s closed, just push the latch aside and open it.

The Švihov Watermill is a protected historic site currently undergoing gradual restoration. Much of the work is taking place inside the building, so it doesn’t disturb guests, but it’s still a living organism that’s growing and flourishing, so there may be some activity and ongoing work around the mill.
We’re currently working hard on renovating the grounds. Upon arrival, you’ll see scaffolding—the stucco master is creating a new decorative facade. In the barn, we’re finishing up the restrooms and showers, and we’re preparing a new footbridge over the millrace as well as a gazebo. So there’s a bit of commotion around here, but nothing too bad. We’re making the mill even more beautiful... ;-)

Camping on the property:
You’re welcome here year-round. However, in the winter—from November/December through about March—please note that the water in the restrooms is turned off, and campers have access to only one heated faucet at the local trailer. We can handle sanitation needs by bringing water from the heated faucet.

Please do not enter any buildings except for the restroom facilities. Use of the seating area “behind the millrace” is permitted only by prior arrangement. There is a freely accessible stream on the property, so keep an eye on the children!

A personal note from bezKemp:
Although at first glance it may seem like you’re driving onto a construction site, this is only partially true. The current owners decided to buy and save the mill eight years ago and are gradually restoring and renovating it, as the mill has suffered a great deal of damage in recent decades.
The parking area for RVs is new, and the garden and courtyard have also undergone partial restoration. However, you should expect the site to have an “industrial” feel.
The owner’s story about saving the mill, the restoration process, the challenges he faces, and what he’s gradually uncovering is fascinating. If you’re lucky, he’ll even take you on a tour.
A major perk and bonus is the stellplatz’s location. You won’t find a spot any closer to the castle to spend the night in your RV. The garden is surrounded by a wall, so you have plenty of privacy. The place has a strong genius loci.

A personal note from my father
As a student, I worked as a tour guide at Švihov Castle and fell in love with the place. I used to walk past the mill there. It was a ruin. It stared at me, and I stared back—like that for about 15 years. And then, almost miraculously, we found our way to each other. Since then, I’ve devoted all my free time, money, blood, and sweat to it. And I’m not alone in this—fortunately, I have wonderful helpers. We bought the mill in 2018 in a totally devastated state. Leaky roofs, overgrown vegetation, hundreds of metric tons of rubble, and clutter everywhere. Anyone who didn’t see the condition of the property back then wouldn’t believe how much work has already been done on it, even though many parts still look quite dilapidated. That house has a soul, and I feel that it has been thriving these past few years—that even the house itself is helping with its own restoration. Like an abandoned cat that’s grateful for a little care and food, that’s perked up a bit and looks forward to being petted.

Speaking of cats, there are two living at the mill: Mňaukyna and her son, Tygřík. They’re really friendly and curious, but they don’t exactly seek out the company of dogs—as is often the case. Animals of all kinds are welcome, but if your dog’s favorite pastime is chasing cats, please keep him from doing so.
Besides the cats, it’s like a little aquatic zoo here. Nutrias, ducks, and of course fish swim in the canal. And people, too. They can use the granite steps to get into the water or jump right in from the bank. At their own risk, of course—we don’t have lifeguards. ;-) See you in Švihov!