Vydrica Observation Tower

The animal observation tower lies on the Vydrice Valley hiking trail connecting the municipal districts of Rača and Marianka; well-known recreation spots such as Pánova lúka, Studnička Zbojníčka and Malý Slavín are within walking distance. The area is currently designated a so-called quiet zone – without commercial timber harvesting – and in the future it is to become part of the Pramene Vydrice national nature reserve. At present the area offers a unique environment characterized by unmown meadows, the stumps of former mature trees, fallen trees and shrubs. The character of the area is complemented by a view of the Malé Karpaty mountains with the iconic Kamzík tower. Thanks to its character, wild animals – deer, wild boar and others – can commonly be observed in the environment.

The animal watchtower is a small timber structure that also serves as a resting place for passers-by, for refreshment, or as a shelter from bad weather.

A rising footbridge brings the visitor to the vertical slit of the entrance, after which the space of a terraced plateau opens up, allowing various seating scenarios. The view is framed by the asymmetric structure of the roof and walls. The entire structure is built from a single type of untreated red spruce timber, 140 × 200 mm.

The shape and structure of the building itself is defined by its function, the possibilities of the chosen material, the slope of the terrain, and our effort to design an original structure with minimal means.

See the review in Projekt magazine