Rozhledna Vartovna
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.
