The new visitor centre is one of the two main access points to the Czech Pustevny Pass. Taking into account both the transport and natural context, the architects at henkai architekti carried out a metamorphosis of the site, which was previously a purely utilitarian space. Now it is a tourist-friendly, symbolic gateway to this beautiful and unusual attraction.
Situated on a picturesque ridge of the Beskydy Mountains, Pustevny is not only an important mountain spot, but also an attractive tourist destination that combines natural beauty and a rich recreational offer. From the end of the 19th century, thanks to the development of tourism, the area gradually began to urbanise. Characteristic buildings, such as the chalets designed by the famous architect Dušan Jurkovič and the modern Kamil Mrva cable car station, are unique examples of the harmonious combination of tradition and modernity.
Pustevny is easily accessible to both pedestrians and motorised tourists. The cable car from Trojanovice allows the pass to be conveniently reached from the north, while the road from Prostřední Bečva allows access by car or bus from the south. This accessibility makes Pustevny very popular with tourists, including less experienced ones looking for active relaxation and contact with nature. Originally, Pustevny was a secluded place inhabited by hermits (“poustevníci”, hence the name Pustevny), who lived in harmony with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Today, however, the pass is bustling with life, attracting visitors with its unique architectural heritage. The chalets designed by Dušan Jurkovič are true masterpieces of folk architecture, and the modern cable car station adds a modern charm to the place.
Increasing car traffic on the Pustevny Pass, which often interferes with hikers, has become a significant problem that needs to be solved. In order to reduce traffic jams and improve safety, it was decided to move the original bus stop from the pass to the car park. The new bus stop and bay were designed to better organise traffic and facilitate access to Pustevna. The design of the new layout includes the main building – the ‘house’ – adjacent to the car park and bus stop, as well as a new bell tower and a forest path portal. The belfry symbolises the human presence in the landscape and the spiritual dimension of the site, linking the past to the present. The paved area between the belfry and the house offers seating under mature beech trees, creating a space for rest and reflection.
The entrance building provides a small information centre, waiting room-café, car park staff facilities, bus stop shelter, toilets and a terrace overlooking the landscape. The wooden structure with its shingle façade and green roof, reminiscent of traditional building techniques, blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. Reducing car traffic is a key objective for the Pustevny area. The municipality actively supports the development of public transport, including the construction of new cycle paths and the upgrading of bus stops. The introduction of these facilities is part of a wider strategy to make public transport more attractive and functional.
Over the past decade, the municipality has focused on improving public spaces and infrastructure, with an emphasis on architectural quality. New projects such as the village square, the revitalisation of the village centre, the Kněhyně playground and the expansion of the primary school have all contributed to Pustevny’s attractiveness as a leisure and recreational destination. Further modifications to public spaces are planned for the future to further enhance the comfort and enjoyment of visiting this unique place.
Pustevny, with its rich history, unique architectural heritage and natural beauty, remains one of the most important and attractive places in the Beskydy Mountains. Thanks to the continuous development of infrastructure and attention to architectural quality, Pustevny attracts tourists from all over the world, offering them unforgettable experiences and contact with unspoilt nature.
Studio: henkai architekti
Authors: Daniel Baroš, Michal Vašek, Jan Šimíček
Project location: Prostřední Bečva, Czech Republic
Year of completion: 2024
Photographer: BoysPlayNice
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