Vintgar Gorge: A Doorway to Nature

One of Slovenia’s most popular natural attractions, Vintgar Gorge is an awe-inspiring site carved out by glaciers. OFIS Arhitekti recently designed a new entrance lodge for the site. Located within Tricorno National Park, the lodge replaces a wooden cabin from 1986 and is part of a comprehensive strategy for the conservation and sustainable management of the site.

The project is defined by an understated, context-sensitive approach intended to enhance the visitor experience while minimizing environmental impact.

Sustainable architecture and traditional techniques

The new building retains the volumetric presence and traditional materials of the previous construction, but reinterprets them through a contemporary lens. The original masonry base has been preserved, while the upper section has been given a new timber skin. Half the façade is opaque and protective, while the other half is transparent glass, opening up views of the Radovna River and immediately immersing visitors in nature.

OFIS Arhitekti adopted an essential architectural language for this project, combining it with meticulously selected local materials and eco-friendly construction techniques. All the timber was sourced from Slovenian forests and processed naturally, without the use of glues or chemical treatments. The walls are assembled using dry joinery techniques with solid timber panels, while the fir-framed windows are triple glazed to ensure high energy efficiency.

The façade cladding and roofing are charred wood treated with natural pine resin. Employed in numerous construction traditions around the world, this historical technique extends the life of the wood while protecting it from mold, insects, and weather.

The contrast between the dark external envelope and the light tones of the oiled larch interiors strengthens the welcoming ambiance, echoing the material simplicity of Alpine structures. Inside, the space features glass shelving and a timber counter that defines the staff area. An opening that overlooks the landscape houses a small café with display cases for food and accessorized walls for storing cups and equipment for preparing beverages.

Controlled, respectful entry

The new entrance lodge is part of a larger management initiative for Vintgar Gorge, which is currently under significant pressure from tourism. To preserve the balance of the local ecosystem – home to over 600 plant species, numerous animals, and unique geological features – a limited-access system with online booking and staggered entry times has been introduced. Combined with a park-and-ride arrangement with electric shuttles, the system helps reduce the environmental impact and improve the visitor experience.

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©Tomaz Gregoric, courtesy of OFIS Arhitekti

©Miran Kambic, courtesy of OFIS Arhitekti