German Outdoors
Become a language adventurer in the great outdoors and gain wonderful experiences with my unique German lessons in nature. Immerse yourself in a vibrant learning environment where fresh air, green meadows, and the chirping of birds accompany your learning journey. My tailored courses not only provide an innovative way to learn German but also establish a connection with the environment, fostering a playful and relaxed atmosphere. Get ready to experience language in an entirely new way—outdoors, in nature, where learning becomes a true adventure. Welcome to German in the Green – your gateway to language and nature experience!
Summer Tours
(April-October)
The Pravčická Gate natural monument - one of the most famous rock formations in the Czech Republic, located 3 kilometres from Hřensko, close to the German-Czech border - is the symbol of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. With a clear height of 16 metres, a span of almost 27 metres and an arch width of 7-8 metres, it is the largest sandstone rock gate in Europe.
From the accessible rocks above the restaurant "Sokolí hnízdo" (building from 1881) you have a fascinating view. The Pravčická Gate has been attracting visitors since the end of the 18th century.
Mainly hiking
3 hours
7 km
Sandstone panorama
Hiking & walking
The Mařenka viewpoint is located near the village of Teletín above the former Johannisbach stream and offers one of the most beautiful views of the Vltava. Here, the river flows through a deep rocky gorge, winding in a horseshoe shape and creating a fascinating natural backdrop. The tour starts in the village of Krňany, leads to a waterfall (Krňanský vodopád) and then to the popular viewpoints of Máj, Mařenka and Bednář. These rocky viewpoints offer the most famous views of the meanders of the Vltava in the former Svatojan streams, which are now flooded by the waters of the Štěchovické reservoir.
3.5 hours
10 km
Picturesque scenery
Hiking & walking
The upper Liběchovka wetland is a nature reserve in the Kokořín region. We combine a visit to this area with a climb up Nedvězí Hill, which offers a beautiful panoramic view, followed by a walk through the village of the same name. The route continues through the village of Dražejov with its picturesque folk architecture. During the round trip, you will get to know deep gorges with sandstone formations, which are a characteristic feature of the Kokořín landscape.
4 hours
12 km
Fabulous motifs
The Stropnik, a fascinating mountain in the eastern Ore Mountains, is characterised by its striking "protrusion", which provides a breathtaking panoramic view. This unique elevation on the otherwise straight Ore Mountains ridge makes the mountainside particularly steep and impressive. On the descent from the summit of Stropnik to Osek station, you experience a difference in altitude of 500 metres in just 2 kilometres as the crow flies - a majestic scenery that makes the Ore Mountains seem almost like a high mountain range from the perspective of Osek.
Mainly hiking
4 hours
11 km
Dreamlike view
Prague walks
(all year round)
The educational trail introduces you to the history, fauna and flora of a unique geological site on the south-western edge of Prague - the Prokopské údolí nature reserve.
The trail starts in the Prague-Butovice district, from where it climbs up the Butovicky Hradiště hill with a view of Hemrovy skály (the remains of an underwater volcano) and then descends into the Prokop Valley. It takes you to beautiful viewpoints and also to Butovice Castle, an important archaeological site that proves the ancient settlement of the Prague Basin.
Hiking & walking
3 hours
5 km
Snack on the way
The valley in the north-west of Prague is one of the most varied and picturesque locations and makes you forget that we are - surprisingly - still in Prague. Divoká Šárka represents a unique area from a geological, botanical and zoological point of view, even by local standards. It is a landscape and biotope of rugged rocks, plateaus, forests and fields, all dramatically shaped by the Šárka stream. The whole valley is criss-crossed by marked trails, so good hiking boots are a must. We start at the Džbán reservoir, walk through the valley of the Šárecký potok stream and reach the picturesque viewpoint of Nebušická at the end.
Walking
2.5 hours
3 km
Rock formations
Walking
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Havlíčkovy, Riegrovy and Petřínské Sady! We meet regularly, surrounded by nature. Nine exciting meetings in these three parks provide the perfect environment for eventful learning. Improve your German through scavenger hunts, Prague stories and legends and orienteering activities. Discover the diversity of trees and plants as well as the history of these unique places. From a former vineyard to two enchanting artificial caves and not least because of the unique views of Prague. This is the ideal combination of language, environment and culture.
2 hours / 9 meetings
2 - 4 km
Enchanting views
Walking
The Chuchelský háj, an urban mixed forest dominated by oak trees, offers nature trails and numerous tree and plant species. The local zoo and the Church of St John of Nepomuk are special attractions, while the trails of the Chuchelské háje nature reserve offer a variety of exploration options. Malá Chuchla is home to the Forest Zoo Corner, a year-round area near the wildlife park where visitors can experience the local wildlife up close. From deer to raccoon dogs, the zoo offers an insight into the diversity of Czech nature.
3 hours
5 km
Easily findable
Winter Tours
(November-March)
The Tyssa Walls in the Bohemian-Saxon Switzerland offer a delightful hike with an elevation difference of about 185 meters over a distance of approximately 4 km. The trail starts in Tyssa (Tisá) and leads through an impressive rock landscape. The hiking path on the western side provides spectacular views of Tyssa, followed by a pleasant trail along the rocks on the backside. The hike concludes on the rock plateau with various routes available to return to the starting point. A gentle hike suitable for every nature enthusiast, enjoyable in any season.
Mainly hiking
3 hours
4 km
Winter scenery
The staircase hike leads to historical highlights such as the Falkenstein rock castle and through the adventurous Engen Stiege. Viewpoints such as Rudolfstein and Marienfelsen offer breathtaking panoramas. The circular hiking trail in Jetřichovice impresses with its varied paths through picturesque landscapes with sandstone cliffs and fairytale forests. Climbs to Falkenstein Castle, Rudolfstein and Marienfelsen are easy to master thanks to climbing aids. The Enge Stiege leads through cool crevices, increasing tension and pulse. Striking mountain huts on Rudolfstein and Marienfelsen are attractive photo motifs even from a distance.
Mainly hiking
5 hours
14 km
Sandstone scenery
Save your spot!
Own materials that promise to bring the world outside the classroom to life are complemented by extra-curricular activities and a digital photography workshop that help students open their eyes to the world around them. We go on walks and excursions into the surrounding countryside. Under the motto "German through adventure", I take learners back to nature to a lake, a mountain or other dreamlike places.
Learning in the fresh air leads to demonstrable success, which manifests itself in improved academic performance. Learners who opt for this method not only experience better grades, but also higher results in tests. Particularly noteworthy is the increased memory for learning content, improved language skills in the areas of writing, reading, speaking and vocabulary, as well as an increased ability to competently solve complex and networked tasks. In addition, an increased interest in STEM subjects (maths, computer science, natural sciences and technology) can be observed. Step into a learning environment that not only promotes your German language skills, but also your understanding of complex topics in a holistic way.
Learning German outdoors is motivating because it provides real-world experience. In real situations, learning is enriching, meaningful and centred on the learner. What is learnt is relevant to the direct experience. There are also a variety of learning spaces in the outdoors that can cater for the different needs of learners.
The positive effects of outdoor learning on health cannot be overlooked. Spending time outdoors not only contributes to general well-being, but also has a positive effect on physical and mental health. The fresh air and daylight offer numerous opportunities to move and train both gross and fine motor skills. This natural outdoor activity not only strengthens the immune system, but also prevents obesity, allergies, short-sightedness and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, studies show that emotional and behavioural problems as well as hyperactivity can be significantly reduced. Step into a learning environment that not only improves your German, but also naturally promotes your health.
Learning outdoors not only promotes language skills, but also strengthens interpersonal relationships. Observations show that in nature, learners have more opportunities to develop and consolidate pro-social behaviour, conflict resolution and trust in others, be it among classmates or teachers. The relaxed atmosphere of the outdoors helps learners to work in less isolation and encourages social interaction. This not only makes the learning environment more pleasant, but also more effective. A well-functioning learning community is the key to successful learning.
I focus on the development of key skills that are crucial in the 21st century. They are crucial in the 21st century. These modern competencies include not only traditional teaching content, but also focus on fostering communication, collaboration, creativity, critical and complex thinking, resilience and the ability to deal with the unexpected. In tomorrow's world, these skills will be crucial to successfully tackle the challenges ahead.
Why outside the room?
The classroom, traditionally a confined and restrictive space, may not be ideal for every learner. Especially for people who need to move around to learn effectively, nature offers a much better environment. In nature you find space, freedom and the opportunity to release energy. The natural environment not only serves as a backdrop for learning, but also provides an excellent resource that can lead to a deeper appreciation of nature. Outdoor activities, be it hiking, exploring or simply enjoying nature, can lead to a genuine enjoyment of the natural world. Additionally, spending time outdoors has been shown to increase brain activity and promote overall health. Thus, learning in nature can not only be more effective, but also more enriching for the individual.
Which skills are practised?
Learning in a natural environment promotes a variety of skills that transcend traditional classroom boundaries. Academic skills such as note-taking, labelling, classifying, differentiating and presenting are taught in a concrete way. At the same time, learners develop a deeper appreciation and sensitivity for nature, which goes far beyond the purely academic. The sensory learning experience outdoors sharpens the pupils' perception. By not only seeing and hearing, but also using their senses of touch, smell and taste, learning becomes more sustainable and effective. Combining sensory experiences with the learning process helps pupils to remember things better. Another benefit of learning in nature is the natural and pleasant environment, which helps to break down emotional barriers. Compared to sometimes restrictive classrooms, nature allows for a relaxed atmosphere that favours effective learning. Thus, the natural environment not only offers an extension of the learning space, but also a holistic promotion of various skills and aspects of personality development.
What does the practice look like?
In practice, a nature activity involves several key steps. Initially, careful preparation takes place, with the language benefits of the activity considered as a German teacher. Activities such as collecting and identifying leaves are preferred for their linguistic complexity. Mind maps with relevant vocabulary and structures are created to specifically support students during the project. Risks associated with the activity are considered beforehand, particularly in forested areas. Close coordination with foresters and hunters is essential to ensure safety. Route planning takes into account potential hazards, such as restricted access to certain areas during bird nesting season. Equipment, including a "green box" with maps, clipboards, and specimen jars, is prepared. Students receive a checklist of items to bring in advance. In the actual language practice, students are taught techniques to identify plants using reference materials. During a walk through the landscape, relevant observation points are explained, and "rules on the way" are established. Fieldwork itself is safety-focused, with clear boundaries and no-go areas. A time limit ensures an organized end to the activity. Emphasis is placed on respecting nature by avoiding the picking of protected species. After completing the nature activity, a reflection takes place to discuss experiences and results. Participants share their discoveries and reflect on differences between the local and home environments. If possible, the project is contextualized within a broader framework to establish a connection to future nature activities.
What was the inspiration?
The idea for "German in the Green" originated during my nature education training in 2023 with the goal of connecting people with nature while teaching them German. I was also inspired by the English Country Schools, which developed a program for an active English holiday in the countryside during the 90s. Encouraging exploration of nature played a central role in this context. Furthermore, I am enthusiastic about the work of the Swiss foundation SILVIVA. Serving as a hub for sustainable education since 1985, it promotes nature experiences as a foundation for understanding the environment. Its holistic approach integrates encounters with nature and social aspects into environmental education to foster personal development and promote conscious behavior towards both humanity and nature.