The observation tower on Mt. Sneznik has a rich and eventful history, dating back to the late 19th century. The original structure, erected in 1899 at the initiative of the Klodzko Mountain Society, served for decades as a vantage point and shelter for tourists. Unfortunately, in 1973 the decision was made to demolish it due to its poor technical condition. For nearly half a century, the top of Snieznik remained 'naked' until Polish and Czech mountain enthusiasts decided to bring this iconic site back to life.

The new tower, officially opened in 2022, is an impressive example of modern mountain architecture. The 33.5-meter-high structure was designed to blend harmoniously into the landscape while offering visitors an unparalleled visual experience. The tower's spiral form harkens back to the historic original, but uses contemporary materials and technologies to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors.

Entering the tower is not only an opportunity to enjoy the views, but also to travel back in time. Information boards have been placed on each level, telling about the history of the region, the geology of the Sněžník Massif and the local flora and fauna. This educational approach makes a visit to the tower not only a pleasure for the eyes, but also an opportunity to expand your knowledge of this fascinating border area.

Interestingly, the tower has been equipped with modern amenities, such as a weather monitoring system and special lighting that creates a magical atmosphere at night without disturbing the natural ecosystem. The designers also took care of accessibility for people with limited mobility by installing an elevator to reach the viewing platform.

The reconstruction of the tower on Snieznik is not only a restoration of a historical object, but above all a symbol of cross-border cooperation. The project, co-financed by the European Union, has become a catalyst for the development of tourism in the region, linking the Polish and Czech sides of the Śnieżnik Massif into one cohesive tourist area.

The main reason for climbing to the top of the Śnieżnik lookout tower is undoubtedly the breathtaking panorama. From a height of more than 1,400 meters above sea level, the view can reach up to 100 kilometers on sunny days. On the horizon you can see the distinctive silhouettes of Praděd in the Jeseníky Mountains, the majestic Krkonoše Mountains with Sněžka, and even the distant Owl Mountains. For geography buffs, it's quite a treat - you can admire the territories of Poland, the Czech Republic and distant corners of Germany at the same time.

The viewing platform is equipped with telescopes, which allow a closer look at distant peaks and valleys. In addition, special information boards help identify individual elements of the landscape, which is especially valuable for people who are just beginning their adventure with mountain tourism.

Surrounding the tower is a network of hiking trails that encourage further exploration of the Śnieżnik Massif. One popular route is the path leading to the source of the Morava River, a river that has shaped the landscape and culture of the region for centuries. Another interesting destination can be the Bear Cave in Kletno, the largest cave in the Sudetes, where you can admire impressive rock formations and traces of prehistoric animals.

Families with children may find the 'Path in the Clouds' - an educational nature trail that interactively introduces the richness of the mountain ecosystem - particularly attractive. The route features information boards, field games and observation points that make learning about nature a fascinating adventure.

Worth mentioning is the cafe located at the foot of the tower, where you can relax and enjoy local specialties. The menu has been carefully composed to reflect the culinary tradition of the Polish-Czech borderland. Here you can try traditional Czech dumplings, Polish sour soup or potato pancakes common to both cultures.

For those looking for more active recreation, the area offers excellent conditions for various forms of tourism. Cross-country skiing trails operate here in the winter season, while biking trails of varying difficulty are popular in the summer. Guided group tours are also organized, which allow you to discover lesser-known but equally fascinating corners of the Snieznik Massif.

When planning a visit to the Snieznik lookout tower, it is worth reading some practical information that will make it easier to organize the trip. First of all, it is important to remember that admission to the tower is paid. According to the latest data (as of 2023), a ticket costs 120 Czech crowns, which translates to about 22 zlotys. There is a ticket machine on site that accepts both cash and card payments, which is a great convenience for tourists.

Getting to the tower is relatively easy. The nearest parking lot is about 1.5 kilometers from the destination. It is worth noting that parking is free, which is an added advantage for visitors. The route from the parking lot to the tower is well marked and mostly easy to follow. The first 500 meters is a slightly steeper climb, but the rest of the way is a pleasant, gentle walk.

The tower is accessible all year round, but opening hours may vary depending on the season. During the summer season (May to September), the tower is usually open longer, often until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy spectacular sunsets. In the winter season, opening hours are shorter due to weather conditions. It's always a good idea to check the current opening hours on the tower's official website before planning a visit.

As for amenities, there is a cafe at the foot of the tower where you can relax and have a snack. The menu offers both hot drinks and light meals. Picnic tables and benches have also been set up in the area, which is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the panorama, even if you don't plan to climb the tower itself.

For those who want to combine a visit to the tower with a longer hike, we recommend planning a return route through the upper ski station. This alternative path takes you through the forest and offers additional attractions in the form of wooden sculptures to admire along the way. The route is easy and fun, ideal for families with children.

It is worth remembering that the weather in the mountains can be changeable, so you should always be prepared for different weather conditions. It is recommended to take warm clothing, even on summer days, and appropriate hiking shoes. In addition, it is a good idea to carry water and snacks, especially if you are planning a longer hike in the area.

Finally, it is worth mentioning safety and environmental rules. The Śnieżnik Massif is a valuable natural area, so it is important to follow only marked trails and not to disturb wild animals. We should also remember to take all trash with us and leave the place in the condition we found it.

A visit to the Snieznik lookout tower is an unforgettable experience that combines elements of education, recreation and contact with nature. Whether you are an avid mountain lover or a family looking for an interesting destination for a weekend trip, the reconstructed tower and its surroundings have much to offer. It is a place that is sure to remain in the memory of any visitor for a long time.