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Bivouac Under Grintovec
Miha Kajzelj
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Bivouac, situated in the Kamnik Alps, 30 kilometers north of Ljubljana, Slovenia, sits at an elevation of 2080 meters above sea level. The shelter is located along the path leading from the valley toward Mount Skuta (2400m) and is accessible only by foot. The new bivouac replaces an older structure built in 1972, providing a safe retreat for mountaineers. The bivouac is a part of the region’s mountain infrastructure and serves as a free, 24/7 shelter for all visitors. Its main purpose is to offer a safe haven when harsh weather or nighttime conditions make it dangerous to descend into the valley. With a capacity of 6-8 people, the shelter features uniform sleeping levels for 2-3 individuals each. Its design offers flexibility in use, with a vertical layout that is visually striking in both the snowy winter and rocky summer landscapes. Constructed with a minimal concrete foundation, the bivouac’s vertical structure (2x3 meters and 4.5 meters tall) features aluminum insulating panels on the exterior and perforated wooden panels on the interior to maintain a dry, warm environment. Despite its non-heated interior, the structure’s design ensures energy efficiency by retaining heat produced by occupants. The upper floors remain warmer due to the vertical layout. Built off-site and transported by helicopter, the bivouac weighs just 2300 kilograms, a result of its aluminum frame. This eco-conscious approach ensures minimal disruption to the natural landscape surrounding the shelter.
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