Zbiroh Castle: Czech countryside, castles and verdant vales.

How cool would it be to stay in one of those mediaeval castles ? We thought so too and so this was the first of two (and as it turns out only one) that we booked and stayed at

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Zbiroh castle's website talks about its history etc, but here is an excerpt:

Zbiroh is the first stately home in the Czech Lands and was mentioned in church chronicles at the end of the 12th century. Over the centuries the castle was converted into the present neo-renaissance chateau. Its owners have included King Ottokar II and the Emperors Charles IV, Sigismund and Rudolph II, which is why it is known as the Three Emperors’ Chateau.

The chateau, originally Zbiroh Castle, holds several records:

• the oldest stately home in the Czech Lands 
• the deepest well in Europe
• the oldest castle keep in the Czech Lands

Anyway it wasn't one of those baddy castles where people were cruelly tortured and serving as a military outpost, though that probably  occurred along its long line of history. Its main purpose was to serve as home for royalty and as such it looked more like a large mansion.

When we arrived we were introduced, and enjoyed a fine  afternoon tea. Chocolate fondue, mint tea and fruit just set the scene with some decadence.

We were impressed with the setting up on the hill with its nice lawns and garden. The views from this perch are quite something.

This castle has some special significance event now.  It is the home of the knights templar.  And I thought these guys were part of a story book or Indiana Jones movie. Nope, they did exist and they have a home right here. Read a bit more on their web site and your favourite search engine.

We had a look round the onsite museum and naughty me clicked the camera (I'm sure no harm was done to the knight !):

Dining was a good experience. The staff dressed in traditional costumes and the kitchen had some country charm.

We were treated in the manner as expected by dignitaries. 

I drank perhaps more wine than was suitable for my good health.

We arrived a bit late, but there are many activities available such as a ropes course and outdoor chess.

There was also quite a few trails around the castle to walk on.

The bedroom wasn't too much to write home about, but I liked it. What are we to expect ? This is an old building. Being your garden variety impoverished tourist, we also didn't splash out for the more royal suites.

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