June in Slovakia’s National Parks: A Month Full of Public Events Supported by the Swiss-Slovak Cooperation Programme

June brought a wide range of events to Slovakia’s national parks, combining nature conservation, environmental education and active public engagement. The activities were organised as part of the Tourists and Nature Together project, funded by the Swiss-Slovak Cooperation Programme. Visitors of all ages had the opportunity to take part in expert-guided excursions, discussions, educational programmes and family-friendly events that showcased the unique natural heritage of Slovakia’s national parks.

In Veľká Fatra National Park, an Expert Day was held, this time focusing on the characteristic flora of different habitats, from dry grasslands to rare fens in the Mošovce area. Guided by experts, participants explored these valuable ecosystems in the field, learning about their biodiversity and the important role they play in nature conservation.

Pieniny National Park organised an interactive programme, The Story of the Sunny Butterfly, for families with children and the general public. Through engaging activities, visitors learned about the life cycle of an endangered butterfly species. The programme included creative workshops, demonstrations of the butterfly’s developmental stages, field monitoring and educational activities designed to foster a positive relationship with nature.

A series of public discussions entitled Tourism in the Karst took place in Slovak Karst National Park. Experts, tourism professionals and local guides discussed the opportunities and challenges of sustainable tourism, nature conservation and responsible visitor behaviour. The discussions also provided a valuable platform for dialogue between professionals and the wider public.

The administration of Muránska Planina National Park prepared a rich programme as part of the traditional Muráň Castle Games. Visitors could enjoy dozens of environmental activity stations focusing on forest ecosystems, the protection of rare species and outdoor orientation skills. Experiential learning was complemented by activities dedicated to bats, owls, beavers, animal tracks and the importance of forests for people.

Throughout June, Poloniny National Park also hosted  forest bathing experience. This activity encouraged participants to slow down, mindfully connect with the natural environment and recharge both physically and mentally. The programme combined the well-being benefits of spending time in nature with environmental education and the promotion of mental health.

The June activities once again demonstrated that nature conservation is not only about protecting valuable ecosystems, but also about strengthening people’s connection with nature through shared experiences, education and community engagement. Through the Swiss-Slovak Cooperation Programme, the Tourists and Nature Together project continues to support innovative approaches to environmental education while strengthening cooperation between national parks and the public.