In the heart of Hungary’s misty Mátra Mountains, something truly special unfolded this March. Nineteen youth professionals from across Europe came together for a weeklong training program that tested their limits, expanded their skills, and offered a fresh perspective on the power of learning in nature.
This wasn’t just any training—it was Outdoor Hard Skills Training Course, a transformative experience delivered by Academy of Experience and funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. The training was an invitation to learn not only with the mind, but with the whole body and spirit.
Over the course of seven days, participants immersed themselves in the essentials of outdoor experiential education. Each day brought new elements of challenge and discovery. Whether it was completing an expedition with a “leave no trace” approach, building trust with low rope courses or stepping far outside one’s comfort zone on a high ropes challenge, the participants learned through doing, reflecting, and supporting one another.
What was it really like?
Two participants shared their experiences about this kind of immersive outdoor training. “I was able to take part in a completely incredible challenge related to outdoor activities – said Saltanov Rodion from Latvia. It was an amazing 7 days filled with incredible events. We climbed ropes, learned to tie knots, navigate the terrain, and much more. And the culmination of it all was an expedition through the mountains with overnight stays in the wild without tents, but only with self-built shelters. Thanks to the organizers and teammates for the best project.”
The course, far exceeding the expectations, also impressed Prof. Dr. Cem Can from Turkey. “Just completed an incredible outdoor training program that has truly challenged and inspired me in ways I didn’t expect! From high ropes and wilderness skills to reflective evenings and powerful team-building activities, every moment was thoughtfully designed to push us beyond our comfort zones while fostering deep personal and professional growth.
What made this experience exceptional was the perfect balance between experiential learning, emotional resilience, and practical skill-building—all delivered by an amazing team of trainers who were supportive, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to our learning.
If you’re a youth worker, educator, or just someone passionate about personal development and outdoor education, I wholeheartedly recommend this training. It’s more than just a course—it’s a transformative journey that equips you with the tools, mindset, and confidence to empower others. Don’t miss it!”
Sounds like an adventure you would like to experience?
If you are ready to learn through challenge, connection, and the outdoors, make sure you apply for the next course in autumn 2025. Sign up for the newsletter of Academy of Experience and be the first to hear about upcoming outdoor experiential training opportunities.
Your journey into the wild side of learning could be just around the corner! In the meantime, get a taste of the captivating world of outdoor education with Lena Conlan — and discover how a black-belt wilderness educator prepares for advanced adventures in nature.
Source of Growth Podcast: Outdoor educator for life – Part 1
Source of Growth Podcast: Outdoor educator for life – Part 2