Introduction

Spindleruv Mlyn has traditionally been known as the “Pearl of the Giant Mountains”, above all for its location among the highest Czech mountains, close to the peak of Mt. Sn?žka, the very highest point in the Czech Republic. The mountains offer excellent conditions for recreation both in the summer as well as the winter months, offering something for hikers, cyclists, and above all for skiers.

Spindleruv Mlyn is one of the most frequented skiing centre in the entier Czech Republic.

Spindleruv Mlyn is situated of 715 – 1310 m above sea level, at the influence of the river Labe with the Dolský stream. Entirely inside the boundaries of the Giant Mountains National Park, the Down contains four different areas: P?ední Labská, Labská, Bed?ichov and Svatý Petr. The hotel Olympie is situated in a calm part of Spindleruv Mlyn – in the Valley of Svatý Petr. The number of permanent residents is around 1,300; during the winter and summer seasons, though, the number increases to up to 15,000 if visitors are included.

 

Originally a settlement of miners and woodcutters, the emerging town became known at the end of the 18th century as Spindleruv Mlyn (or Spindlermühle in German) from the mill constructed by the family of Spindler on the river Labe.

From the start of the 19th century, the Giant Mountains, including Spindleruv Mlyn, began to experience the development of tourism, causing rapid construction development. Many of the half-timbered cottages and farmhouses were rebuilt into splendid hotels and restaurants; still later, many other buildings were constructed during the years between the First and Second world wars, as well as after 1945. A central landmark of the town is the white concrete arch of the bridge in the centre of town, constructed in 1911. In 1802, the cornerstone was laid for the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, which still stands today.