Wednesday was all about connecting with nature, learning through experience, and enjoying the beauty of Slovakia’s iconic High Tatras.
The students didn’t jump straight into a hike—after all, a gentle start was in order. The morning began with a visit to the Botanical Garden in Tatranská Lomnica. In international groups, students explored local plant species, taking close-up photos of flowers and leaves. These images were later used in a creative matching game, where students paired their photos with facts gathered from the garden’s information tables. This hands-on activity combined outdoor learning with digital tools and teamwork, helping everyone deepen their understanding of local biodiversity.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, it was time for the real adventure: a 2.5-hour hike to the Hut at the Green Lake. The hike was long and at times tiring, but the breathtaking alpine views made every step worth it. Along the way, students learned about the visible effects of climate change in the region—such as the impact of offshore winds and the damage caused by bark beetles to the forest ecosystem.
One highlight was reaching Duck Lake, where students were lucky enough to witness ducks landing gracefully on the water. The natural beauty of the High Tatras left a lasting impression on everyone.
After dinner, the students still had energy to spare! Some played board games with teachers, while others took a peaceful walk around the lake, soaking in the evening scenery under the mountain sky.
A perfect blend of nature, knowledge, and new friendships—this day in the mountains was truly unforgettable.
