Šilheřovice, Czechia (Czech Republic)
This time, we are embarking on a delightful visit to Šilheřovice in the Czech Republic, a charming village situated just a few kilometers from the Polish-Czech border. Our primary destination is the magnificent chateau and its sprawling surrounding park. We were fortunate to visit on a beautiful, sunny spring day, which was absolutely perfect for a leisurely stroll along the park's tranquil paths and for capturing some interesting photographs of the stunning scenery.
The peaceful setting and well-maintained grounds offer a refreshing escape. The combination of historical architecture and lush greenery creates a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip from nearby urban areas like Ostrava or even from Poland.
A little bit of history
In Šilheřovice, a remarkable chateau was built in a romantic style in the late eighteenth century on the site of a former Renaissance fortress by the Eichendorff family, and it was later reconstructed in a grand pseudo-Baroque style. Surrounding the palace is a vast, English-style park, meticulously landscaped with rare and exotic trees from many parts of the world. Today, this expansive park has been transformed into one of the largest 18-hole golf courses in the Czech Republic, blending historical grandeur with modern recreation. The chateau itself is a vibrant venue for various social events and cultural activities, hosting everything from weddings to concerts. By the lake, which was unfortunately empty during our visit, stands a charming hunting lodge dating from the 18th century and once belonging to the prestigious Rothschild family, adding another layer of history to the property.
The Rothschild family, who owned the estate for a significant period, played a crucial role in shaping its current appearance, expanding both the chateau and the park. The park's arboretum-like collection of trees makes it a living botanical library, where visitors can admire ancient oaks, majestic plane trees, and many other species. The historical significance of the site, from its fortress origins to its transformation into a grand aristocratic estate, is palpable as you walk through the grounds, offering a truly immersive experience.
Parking and walking
We easily found a convenient parking lot near the park's entrance (1; GPS: 49.926740, 18.270727). After parking, we simply crossed the street and headed straight, keeping the chateau park on our left. After walking for about 200 meters, we entered the beautiful park grounds. Following the well-marked path, we soon arrived in the vicinity of the palace (A; GPS: 49.925890, 18.274484), walking through the sprawling golf course with its perfectly manicured fairways.
From a distance, we could already see the distinctive roofs of the historic hunting lodge. This charming building is now a welcoming spot where you can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink (B; GPS: 49.924778, 18.277791). After our visit, we completed a pleasant circular walk, following a different path that led us back towards the fountain and eventually back to our starting point at the parking lot (C; GPS: 49.926740, 18.270727), providing a comprehensive tour of the park's main attractions.
Gastronomy in Šilheřovice
After a long walk exploring the chateau and its beautiful park, visitors can satisfy their appetite with traditional Czech cuisine. While the hunting lodge (B) offers a convenient spot for a meal or drink, the surrounding area also provides a chance to sample classic local dishes. The culinary scene in this region is hearty and satisfying, perfect for replenishing your energy.
When in the Czech Republic, trying some of the national dishes is a must. You can enjoy traditional pork knuckle (pečené vepřové koleno) or a delicious goulash with dumplings (guláš s knedlíky). Another popular choice is Svíčková, a marinated sirloin steak with a creamy vegetable sauce and dumplings. These savory dishes are often served with a refreshing Czech beer, a staple of the local culture. For something sweet, don't miss the chance to try trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open fire, or traditional fruit dumplings (ovocné knedlíky).
The hunting lodge restaurant offers a cozy and historic setting to relax and enjoy your meal, often with a view of the park. It’s the perfect place to sit back, reflect on your visit, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings while savoring some authentic local flavors.
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