Viewpoint U jelena

Viewpoint U jelena overlooks the village of Boškov, part of the town of Potštát in the Přerov District, in the Olomouc Region of Moravia. Sitting at 587 metres above sea level, the hill belongs to the Oderské vrchy (Oder Hills), part of the wider Low Jeseníky range.

Where is it and what does it look like?

The viewpoint sits on a mound just south of Boškov, and the spot has a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, when a windmill stood here. In 1927, Count Zikmund Desfours-Walderode bought the disused mill and built a six-sided, sixteen-metre lookout tower on its stone base. The tower was open to visitors only until 1929; after that it fell into disrepair, was damaged by a windstorm in 1949, and was finally demolished in the 1970s.

The present-day viewpoint was built on the same spot in the 21st century. Instead of the old tower, a steel sculpture of a deer now stands on top of the mound — the source of the name "U jelena" ("by the deer"). Wooden steps made from logs lead up to the summit, giving the whole structure a simple, natural look that fits well with the surrounding Low Jeseníky landscape.

What can you see from the top?

The platform by the deer sculpture opens onto views of the Potštát area and the rolling hills of the Oderské vrchy. On a clear day, you can even make out Praděd, the highest peak of the Hrubý Jeseník range, on the horizon. Looking east, a TV transmitter near Veselí and six wind turbines are visible as well. This mix of natural scenery and modern infrastructure makes the spot popular with hikers who want a rewarding panorama without tackling a high summit.

Who is this viewpoint for?

Vyhlídka U jelena is a typical stop on a walking route through the Potštát area, a region known for scenic, uncrowded hills and small historic villages. Thanks to its moderate elevation and gentle approach, it suits families with children as well as travellers looking for a short walk with a satisfying view at the end. The deer sculpture also gives the place a distinctive, memorable landmark that sets it apart from other viewpoints in the region.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Viewpoint U jelena? The viewpoint sits at 587 metres above sea level, on a hill belonging to the Oderské vrchy within the Low Jeseníky range.

Was there once a lookout tower here? Yes. Between 1927 and 1929, a sixteen-metre, six-sided tower stood here, built by Count Zikmund Desfours-Walderode on the foundations of a former windmill. After storm damage in 1949 it fell into ruin and was demolished in the 1970s.

What can you see from the top on a clear day? On good visibility days you can spot Praděd in the Hrubý Jeseník range, along with a TV transmitter near Veselí and six wind turbines to the east.

What does the deer sculpture on top represent? The steel deer sculpture replaced the former lookout tower and gave the viewpoint its current name, "U jelena" — literally "by the deer."