In between are many hours spent outdoors in the fresh air. The children have run, collected stones, watched animals, built dams in the water and discovered paths. In the Pflersch Valley, there does not always need to be a big programme. Sometimes a stream, a stick and enough time are all it takes.
When the family later returns to the room, things slowly become quieter. The jackets stay on the coat rack, tired feet dangle from the bed, and over dinner the most important experiences of the day are told once again. Who was the fastest today, or which stone was allowed to come home?
Then begins that part of the day that remains familiar even on holiday. Brushing teeth, putting on pyjamas, putting the favourite cuddly toy to bed. Perhaps there is still a story, or perhaps there is just a brief conversation about what might be planned for tomorrow.
These familiar rituals feel especially good after a day full of new impressions. They bring a little piece of home into the mountains and give the evening its familiar rhythm.
Whether children really sleep better in the mountains cannot be said in general. But a day in the fresh air, plenty of movement and time together can make you tired in a very pleasant way. Not because a great deal has been accomplished, but because the day was filled with real experiences.
And while outside the Pflersch Valley slowly grows dark, the voices inside become quieter. One more page of the favourite book, one last thought of the stream, the pony or the most beautiful find of the day. Then the eyes close. Not because the day was packed full, but because it was fulfilling, filled with new impressions, fresh air, movement, little discoveries and time together.