Lookout towers Jarcová

Architectural pearl of Valašsko

Rozhledna Vartovna is an architecturally exceptional structure towering on the hill of the same name (651 metres above sea level) in the Hostýnské vrchy hills, not far from the municipality of Liptál in the Zlín Region. This modern tower, officially opened in 2009, stands thirty-seven metres tall and features an unconventional triangular ground plan with radial ends, giving it a futuristic appearance. Two hundred and thirteen steps lead to the viewing platform situated at a height of thirty-five metres. Vartovna offers a circular view of the Vsetín region, the Vizovické vrchy hills, and the Hostýnské vrchy hills, while Malá Fatra can even be seen in good conditions.

Access

The lookout tower can be reached by car, with parking available at Sedlo pod Vartovnou, where a paid car park is located. From there, visitors must ascend to the summit on foot along a gentle path approximately 1.5 kilometres in long. The lookout tower is most frequently accessed via the yellow tourist trail from the municipality of Liptál, which leads through the forest and is approximately three kilometres long. Another option is the red tourist route from the municipality of Seninka.

What is worth discovering

In the vicinity lies the historic town of Vsetín, where visiting Zámek Vsetín with the Muzeum Valašska is recommended. Further along into the region stands the Hrad Lukov castle ruin, which is one of the most extensive in Moravia. For lovers of history and sacred architecture, the Hostýn pilgrimage site with the Bazilika Nanebevzetí Panny Marie is crucial. A wonderful trip with children is offered by the ZOO a Zámek Lešná, located not far from Zlín.

Gothic castle tower with a view

Štramberská Trúba is the remnant of the 13th-century Strallenberg medieval castle, the origin of which is associated with the Benešovic or Přemyslid dynasties. The 40-metre-high tower dominates the picturesque town of Štramberk, nicknamed the "Moravian Bethlehem". The tower acquired its present appearance with a characteristic wooden gallery during a reconstruction in 1903, following a design by the architect Kamil Hilbert.

Today, Trúba serves as a popular observation tower offering breathtaking views of the Beskydy and Jeseníky mountain ranges, as well as the Moravská brána. The castle grounds also function as a cultural centre. Below the tower stands Jaroňkova útulna, a folk-style wooden structure that previously served as a tourist hostel.

Access

The tower can be reached on foot from Náměstí Štramberk via a steeper paved path or steps around Jaroňkova útulna. Parking is available at the central car park below the square. The "Štramberk, nám." bus stop is within walking distance. The "Štramberk" railway station is located about 1 km from the centre.

What is worth discovering

Directly in Štramberk, visitors are recommended to taste traditional Štramberské uši, a local gingerbread specialty. Not far from the square lies the world-famous Šipka cave, where the remains of a Neanderthal child were discovered. The Botanical Garden and Arboretum in the old limestone quarry are also well worth a visit.

Štramberská Trúba is an icon of the region, combining history, architecture, and magnificent views. It represents an ideal trip destination for the entire family.