Erasmus+ Youth Exchange | Active Hearts Through Green Minds 2026

An exchange for young Norwegian people who want to meet up with German youth to explore historic German cities and the calm, Norwegian forest. Seven (7) days in Germany. Seven (7) days in Norway. Shared conversation, connection and activities that match the theme.

Applications now open.

In summer 2026, for the third (3rd) year in a row, HI Norway invites young Norwegian participants to take part in an Erasmus+ youth exchange connecting Germany and Norway under the theme:

"Active Hearts Through Green Minds"

This is a fully supported exchange focused on connection, sustainability, cultural dialogue and meaningful shared experiences across borders.

Only 10 places are available. Recruitment is ongoing.

Program locations & dates.

From historic German cities (10th - 17th of July), to calm Norwegian forest landscape (28th of July - 4th of August).

Germany 🇩🇪

📆 10th – 17th, July 2026

📍 Youth Hostel Lübeck

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jugendherbergen_luebeck/

📍 Youth Hostel Plön

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jugendherberge_ploen/

The German part of the exchange will take place in collaboration with local youth hostels in Lübeck and Plön, offering historic surroundings, lakeside landscapes and space for shared activities, thought bubbles and dialogue.

Norway 🇳🇴

📆 28th, July – 04th, August 2026

📍 HI Oslo Haraldsheim

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiosloharaldsheim/

📍 HI Skogsro

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skogsro.foresthostel/

The Norwegian part will combine urban exchange in Oslo with time in nature at Skogsro; creating space for reflection, outdoor activities and community (friend-shaped animals included 😍🐑🐮🐷)

What is included.

Participants selected for Erasmus+ 2026 will be covered with the following:

• Accommodation 🏡🌳🌳
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner 🍔🍕🥤
• Travel, exploration and adventure ✈️🚄🚀
• Selected activities and program elements 👩‍🚀🚣‍♂️🧘‍♀️🤸‍♂️

All practical arrangements are covered through Erasmus+ funding 💰😊🙏⭐

About the exchange.

This is a youth exchange built around:

• Active participation 🤺
• Cultural understanding 📡
• Environmental awareness 🌳
• Shared responsibility and dialogue ❤️

The detailed program structure will be finalized in cooperation with partners. The focus remains on meaningful engagement, personal growth and shared European perspectives.

Who can apply?

We are looking for motivated young participants who are:

• Curious about sustainability and cultural exchange
• Open to dialogue and new perspectives.
• Willing to participate actively throughout the program.

Selection is ongoing. Once 10 places are filled, recruitment will close.

Participation Requirements.

✔ Age: 16–26 years.
✔ English proficiency: Minimum B1 level.
✔ Interest in sustainability, physical activity, and cultural exchange.
✔ Participation in both parts of the program (Germany and Norway).
✔ Willingness to take part in group workshops and activities.

How to apply.

Choose your preferred language below:

Søk på norsk her:

https://form.typeform.com/to/a0DFrbdi?typeform-source=linkform.typeform.com

Apply in English here:

https://form.typeform.com/to/dXTulBw7?typeform-source=linkform.typeform.com

Sustainability and responsibility.

🌱 We prioritize environmentally friendly transportation (whenever possible).
🚌 We use public transport whenever feasible.
🥦 Vegetarian and vegan options are available throughout the program.
🚯 We avoid unnecessary plastic and emphasize a sustainable lifestyle.

Registration and contact.

📅 Application deadline: April 15, 2026
📍 Registration is digital via above "application links."
📧 Questions? Contact us at info@hihostels.no

Join us on an exciting journey of exploration and adventure, combining sustainability, community, and cultural exchange 🌍✨