The next morning brought a true mountain experience. Heavy rain poured down, and the wind howled through the peaks, making some of us hesitate. The descent from the mountains wasn’t just wet—it was a test of will. We packed into our outdoor gear, locked away our fear, and began the hike back down to Tatranská Lomnica.
We don’t have many photos from this day, who would let their mobile phone drown in this rain? But we take away a practical demonstration of what we’ve learned over the past year: the less healthy the forest, the more water underfoot. In parts where trees were bark beetle infested or wind blown, the soil did not absorb as much water as it did in parts where the forest was healthy. And that’s why part of the trail became a small stream.
It could only be described as hellish. The wind chilled us to the bone, tugging at our raincoats and forcing us to tread carefully on the slippery rocks. Rain lashed at us from all directions, and soon the trail was flooded – old water rising to our ankles. It was cold, ruthless, and exhausting. But we pushed on – fast, focused, and full of determination.
And that made the reward even sweeter.
Once we reached the bus, warmth and music welcomed us. Since we have a good relationship with the employees of the Tatra National Park Museum, we were invited to change our clothes, so we didn´t need to sit for another two hours on the bus completely wet. And so, the good mood returned. Pupils sang along, laughter returned, and spirits lifted. Back in Banská Bystrica, a hot meal prepared by our school awaited us – a comforting end to a grueling but unforgettable journey. Many of us spent the afternoon relaxing with our host families, finally able to rest after two intense and inspiring days in nature.
Yet, for some, the adventure wasn’t over. With energy still to spare, a group of students turned the local sports field into a football pitch, enjoying the fresh air and each other’s company.
