The lookout tower on Špičák in the Šumava mountains will begin construction this year

Železná Ruda (Klatovsko) - After decades of waiting, a lookout tower will begin to be built at the top of Špičák in Šumava. The supplier will be selected by the end of August. The construction of the concrete foundations will start in autumn, and the structure will be built from spring. The public can expect its opening at the beginning of the summer season in 2014, said Michal Linhart, Vice Chairman of TJ SA Špičák, which is the investor of this EU-funded project.
    "The lookout tower, which will cost 11.2 million crowns, will be 26.5 meters high, which will be above the tallest trees that grow to a maximum height of 24 meters," he stated. The building will have a basic steel structure and a wooden shell. Up to 60 tourists will fit on its terrace. It will be located 20 meters behind the snack kiosk at the top of Špičák. It will be open during the summer season, from June to the end of October, depending on the summer operation of the cable car to the top of Špičák. The authors are the Klatovy architects Antonín Koldínský and Marcela Venkrbcová from Projekt 99.
    The tower will be created thanks to the local Physical Education Union of Špičák, which is the recipient of a subsidy from the ROP Southwest program. "It took about eight years for the people of Špičák, whether from the area or from the union, to push this project through. This will fulfill the dream of several generations that have sought a lookout tower for more than 50 years," Linhart stated. According to him, the Železnorudsko area will gain more attractiveness and diversity in its tourist offer. The view of the Alps, as well as through the entire Šumava valley all the way to Plzeň, will be worth it, he added.
    The lookout tower on Špičák at an altitude of 1202 meters will be accessible in the summer as a non-commercial object without an entry fee.