Written by: Steve Szabó

June 17–18–19 | 3 Unforgettable Days – 53 Enthusiastic Students

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Day 1 – June 17: Splash and Speed at Velence Lake

The trip kicked off bright and early on Monday, June 17, with 53 excited students gathering at Kelenföld Train Station at 7:15 AM. After greetings, quick headcounts, and last-minute ticket checks, we boarded the train for Agárd, bound for the shimmering Velence Lake.

With the fresh morning breeze and blue-grey skies above, we walked to the Velence Beach, ready to make the most of the sun ( that came later), the water, and the great outdoors.

Morning Activities (9:30–12:30)

Group 1 (led by Ms Ildikó, Bea, and Mr Sándor) took on water and beach sports among the sandy dunes. Sand between the toes and splashes in the sun!

Meanwhile, Group 2 (13 adventurous students with Mr Steve and Bence) set out on a 29 km biking tour around the entire lake. The ride took 2 hours and 20 minutes, with scenic views, lakeside forests, and a true feeling of freedom, only one student ended up in the bushes but got another bike and continued her journey unhurt.

Afternoon Thrill (12:30–14:30)

The groups swapped roles:

• Dragon boating was next for Group 1 — led by Mr Sándor and Ms Ágota, Mr Csongor on the boat – an intense team effort that required rhythm, strength, and coordination.

• After the water challenge, everyone gathered for a well-deserved lunch by the lake under shady trees, chatting and relaxing.

16:59 – Train departure to Budapest

Day 2 – June 18: A Journey to the Heart of Hungarian History – Esztergom

After the sporty start, Tuesday brought culture and history as we headed to one of Hungary's most iconic towns: Esztergom.

We travelled by train through lush green hills and riverside scenery. The town welcomed us with sunshine and the majestic view of the Esztergom Basilica – Hungary's largest church – rising high above the Danube.

Morning Highlights

• Visit to the Basilica, where students were awed by the massive dome, ornate interior, and panoramic views from the coffee shop in the Dome.

• Walking tour through Esztergom's charming downtown, including the historic Royal Palace ruins, cobbled streets, and colourful cafés.

After the guided tour, students had well-deserved free time to:

• Grab ice cream

• Explore the riverside promenade

• Buy souvenirs

• Or just relax in the shade under Esztergom's old trees

We returned to Budapest in the late afternoon, full of impressions and photo memories.

Day 3 – June 19: Nature's Calm and Hidden Treasures – Tata

Our final day took us west to the picturesque town of Tata, often called the "City of Waters". A peaceful, green paradise filled with lakes, gardens, towers and stories of the past.

After another smooth train ride, we arrived ready for a day of gentle hiking, fresh air, and natural beauty.

Key Stops:

Old Lake (Öreg-tó)

We began by strolling around the serene Old Lake, watching water birds glide by and admiring the view of Tata Castle in the distance.

Outlook Tower – Calvary Hill (Kálvária-domb)

Next, we hiked up to the Outlook Tower, where a breathtaking 360° panorama awaited — lakes, hills, forests, and the town laid out below us like a living map.

English Garden and Caves at the Small Lake

The final highlight was a visit to the peaceful English Garden, complete with:

• A charming small lake

• Working water mills that felt like time machines

• Hidden caves tucked beneath the rocks, inviting quiet exploration and wonder

It was the perfect, calm finale to a three-day adventure full of planned variety – movement, learning, reflection, and fun.

Thank You to Our Amazing Staff and Students!

And of course — hats off to our 53 wonderful students for their participation, efforts, teamwork, and smiles throughout the trip, and not to forget those 29 kms that 13 students biked around the lake so heroically.

Written by: Steve Szabó

19. Jun. 2025