The Vidoule Urban Planning Study presents a vision for revitalizing the neglected area of this table mountain. Its transformation will enable both locals and Prague residents to actively enjoy Vidoule’s wild landscape. Open natural sports areas, together with an improved network of trails, will keep Vidoule’s sporting character as vibrant and organically evolving as its most important element—nature.

As one of Prague’s undeveloped areas, Vidoule has significant recreational potential for the entire city. One of the Study’s objectives is therefore to seek solutions that will enable the creation of a representative and valuable nature park where people can gather and spend their free time while preserving the values of the local natural environment. To this end, a team of architects, landscape architects, sociologists, and expert consultants was assembled under the leadership of the reaktor studio. The Vidoule Urban Planning Study is sponsored by the Prague 5 municipal district.

The Vidoule Urban Planning Study is based on the site’s distinct genius loci—that is, wild nature in the midst of a developing city. It also draws on the very essence of the name of Vidoule Hill—viděti (to see). With its panoramic views of the entire city of Prague, this site is unique within Prague’s park system.

Preserving and promoting the area’s natural character, along with the unobtrusive integration of activities, are the cornerstones of the area’s revitalization. The design capitalizes on the area’s natural assets, preserves them, and further develops them. On a second level, it focuses on the unique views of the city and incorporates them into scenic walking loops. On another level, it integrates sports and recreational activities in a thoughtful manner to create a vibrant, actively used space. Last but not least, it integrates Vidoule into Prague’s green space network and redefines the area as a vital link between adjacent neighborhoods.

A defining factor of the site is its geological substrate—namely, two overlapping layers of shale and sandstone that form the typical steep slopes of a table mountain. These slopes are home to the most valuable natural areas as well as specially protected zones—natural monuments. Therefore, the proposal defines a ring of natural value with a special, non-invasive approach to intervention. Circular trails are placed along the edges of the slopes, guiding visitors throughout the entire area and offering them a comprehensive exploration of Vidoule. The lower trail focuses primarily on natural features and connections to the surrounding city (and partially serves as a pedestrian transit route). The upper trail focuses on views and connections to the active use of the nature park. The study defines the plateau—the area most affected by human activity—as an active platform for sports and relaxation, with an emphasis on appropriate integration into the wilderness.

The study seeks to establish connections both between elements of the wilderness and the landscaped environment, and between the active use of the park and the preservation and development of the existing flora and fauna. To this end, the basic pillars of the approach were established, addressing the following themes—in particular, building on historical values, preserving the natural character, activating urban connections, the non-intrusive integration of activities, and public inclusion.