The University of the Third Age course at the Faculty of Science, focused on the Šumava Mountains, attracted 35 seniors again this year and was met with an enthusiastic response. Participants appreciated not only the varied lecture series but also the opportunity to explore the topics covered in the field.
The Diverse Mosaic of the Šumava Landscape
The lecture series offered participants a broad and engaging perspective on the Šumava—as a landscape shaped by natural processes, human activity, and long-term development. Attendees learned about how the Šumava has changed throughout history, the richness of its flora, the uniqueness of its glacial lakes, the world of aquatic organisms, and how Šumava’s forests function in the face of climate change. Attention was also given to current issues, such as the spread of the bark beetle and the restoration of natural ecosystems.
From Lectures to the Field
An important part of the course was two full-day field trips, which provided an opportunity to explore the topics covered directly in the landscape. The first excursion headed to the Soumarský Bridge in the Vltava floodplain, where participants learned more about the role of peatlands in the landscape and their importance for water retention. The second excursion took the seniors to Pasečná, where they could admire a symbol of the Šumava’s nature—the mountain avens.
The Joy of Discovery at Any Age
“The course was very inspiring. We appreciated the clear explanations and, above all, the field trips, which helped us visualize everything better right in nature,” said the course participants.
The participants’ interest and enthusiasm confirmed that lifelong learning is meaningful at any age and that combining expertise with hands-on experiences creates a powerful combination.
