The Krkonoše Mountains, with their changeable weather and beautiful views, offer travelers countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
In addition to marked hiking trails and mountain huts in the Krkonoše Mountains, you will also find shelters, modest but invaluable structures that provide shelter and rest in harsh conditions.
One of them is the KØMEN shelter near Špindlerův Mlýn, which stands out not only for its functionality but also for its unique design, which fits sensitively into the surrounding landscape.
The KØMEN shelter is located on the banks of the White Elbe, not far from the Balvan Waterfall. Its irregular but compact shape evokes a feeling of safety and stability, which are so important in a mountain environment. The chosen shape is meant to symbolize a stone, inspired by the nearby waterfall. The irregular and solid structure of the building creates a feeling of safety and shelter from inclement weather. The outer shell of folded sheet metal is resistant to harsh conditions and changes its appearance over time, similar to a stone covered with moss. The light wood interior contrasts with the dark exterior, creating a cozy and warm feeling that every wet tourist will appreciate.
The shelter was designed by Julie Kopecká, who was inspired by the relief of the Krkonoše slopes and the surrounding nature. Her work is not only a functional shelter, but also a fascinating example of modern architecture that seeks to blend in with and respect its surroundings. In fact, the building was nominated for the Czech Architecture Award 2020, which is a testament to its quality.
How to get to the KØMEN shelter?
The shelter is located on the blue tourist trail. You can continue along it to Luční bouda or in the other direction through Labský důl to Labská bouda. On the map: Kømen shelter near Bílý Labe
Refuges in the Krkonoše Mountains play an important role – they protect tourists from inclement weather, whether rain, snow, wind, or frost. They allow them to rest safely and dryly in a mountain environment where the weather can change quickly and surprise even experienced tourists. The doors of these shelters are open to anyone who needs to recharge their batteries for the rest of their journey. However, it is important to remember that shelters are not a substitute for hotels, but a place to wait out inclement weather, not for planned overnight stays. Their purpose is to provide shelter from severe weather, a dry and covered place to rest, have a snack, and recharge your batteries. You cannot reserve a place in a shelter, nor can you kick anyone out of it – it serves as many travelers as it can accommodate. The only rule is to be considerate – to each other and to the surrounding nature.
Source: Czechdesign and KRNAP
