Hiking is more than just a sport – it is an adventure, a way to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to build lasting friendships. This was also the mission of the international project "Hike More", an initiative co-funded by the Erasmus+ Sport program, where the ARAO Sports Club Association was proud to be a partner alongside organizations from the Czech Republic (coordinator), Slovakia, Hungary, and Portugal.
For us at ARAO, "Hike More" was not just a chance to promote hiking but also an opportunity to discover incredible places and meet extraordinary people. Together, over 200 participants – hiking instructors and local enthusiasts – explored five breathtaking regions of Europe, creating unforgettable memories and learning from one another. Throughout the project, we traversed storybook landscapes, climbed mountains, crossed orests, and witnessed awe-inspiring views, including:
These trails greeted us with alpine challenges and stunning panoramas.
Adventures here were filled with adrenaline, heightened by the risk of encountering bears and the mysterious, foggy weather.
These rolling hills offered a serene refuge for relaxed exploration.
Its captivating trails left us mesmerized.
We uncovered the charm of Portuguese landscapes here.
Each mobility event involved approximately 20 instructors and 30 to 40 local enthusiasts, providing participants with the opportunity to explore diverse terrains, learn advanced hiking techniques, and share experiences in a rich intercultural environment.
"Hike More" demonstrated that hiking has a profound positive impact, contributing to personal development and strengthening community ties. Participants had the opportunity to discover the beauty of natural landscapes, push their physical limits, and enjoy the benefits of an activity accessible to all ages and fitness levels.
Through "Hike More," hiking proved to be not only a tool for exploring the outdoors but also a powerful means of connecting people, inspiring communities, and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. The friendships, skills, and memories created during this project will continue to inspire us to explore more, connect deeper, and hike further.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.