Erasmus+ 2025/2026

The philosophy, meaning, intention and/or initiative behind:

"Active Hearts and Green Minds"

is a reminder to think in favor of nature, animals, ourselves, each other and generally; our immediate environment and/or surroundings (be kind, be compassionate, be cool, be sustainable).

Scientifically, they say the heart creates more electromagnetic power than the brain. Yes, the physical organ, but, we're also speaking about the "spirit" of the heart and the mind.

We know nothing can stop us once we truly have our heart set on something, right?

Ever heard of Romeo and Juliet?

Oceans will be parted and mountains will be moved, when the heart is in charge, that's for sure.

We just have to discover it, or stumble across that one spark which can set our heart on fire.

"Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray."

After all, we're just visitors to planet Earth for a short time, and then we continue towards the stars.

"I didn't come here of my own accord, and I can't leave that way. Whoever brought me here, will have to take me home"

- Rumi, 13th century Sufi mystic and poet.

We should spend our short time on planet Earth to be creative, and actively choose to not be destructive.

When we create, we are aligned with the creator. It's like being in a river and flowing with the stream. The river's current, sustains power.

Allow heart to charge the mind with good thoughts, good words and good deeds for a beautiful creation. If that is not possible, then just be still, keep quiet and let the stream guide you :)

With that being said, wear your left shoe on your right foot, and wear your pants as a hat, use your ears to see and your eyes to hear, for who is who and who knows what?

This summer, youth from Norway and Germany came together to build friendships, discover new perspectives, and to live in the spirit of Active Hearts and Green Minds (It’s not always a walk in the park, but that is how our human consciousness evolves).

Organized by HI Norway and DJH Germany, and funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, the exchange took us from the lakes of Plön, through Hamburg’s city streets, into the Norwegian forests of Skogsro, and finally to Oslo Haraldsheim. Along the way, there were moments that will stay with us forever.

First Stop: Plön – Lakeside Beginnings

The adventure began at Plön Youth Hostel, right on the edge of Großer Plöner See. Surrounded by nature, the group eased into the program with canoeing, a castle walks, and workshops on democracy and participation; with evening campfires, games, and a BBQ. It was a good place to get acquainted, and form the bonds that would carry through the journey.

Next: Hamburg – City Rhythms and Reflections

From calm lakes to the pulse of the city, the group travelled on to Hamburg (Horner Rennbahn Hostel). Here, workshops on sustainability and the emotional impact of climate change (Greenpeace) sparked thoughts. Guided tours through the city, an interesting water organ concert, and a day at the beach in Travemünde added energy and variety. By the farewell evening, Hamburg had given us both urban exploration and thought bubbles.

Into the Forest: HI Skogsro – Nature and Connection

Crossing into Norway, the exchange found a new rhythm in the forest surroundings of HI Skogsro. Days were spent walking shaded trails, sharing thoughts in a workshop tent, visiting a heritage farm, meeting friend-shaped animals, and moving the body by playing through an outdoor obstacle course.

In the evening, we gathered around the bonfire — making Pinnebrød (stick bread), just talking and simply being together. Skogsro was about slowing down, connecting with nature, and letting the calm forest bring us closer.

Final Chapter: Oslo Haraldsheim – Farewell and Full Hearts

The last stop was HI Oslo Haraldsheim, where the city became our playground. Teams of youth roamed Oslo on a scavenger hunt, discovering hidden corners and capturing smileys along the way.

Afterwards, everyone gathered at Peppes Pizza with the HI Norway admin team and group leaders to reflect on the highlights and lessons of the past weeks. The journey ended with a farewell dinner party at Haraldsheim — with more food, relaxation, and heartfelt goodbyes.

It was a closing chapter that reminded us why these exchanges matter: because adventure happens when people come together across borders, cultures, and experiences.

Looking Ahead: Erasmus+ Youth Exchange 2026 💬

Next summer (2026) HI Norway and DJH Germany will carry out a new round of Erasmus+ Youth Exchange. Applications are already open, and program details together with the selection of candidates will be announced right after New Year.

📌 Make sure to send in your application and keep an eye on hihostels.no for updates.

Apply here:

• English application
• Norsk søknad

Thank you to this year’s youth, leaders, and teams who made this journey possible. From lakes to forests, cities to cozy campfires — Erasmus+ 2025 has shown us the excitement and joy of coming together.

Keep on shining bright, just like a diamond ✨