This Erasmus+ course invites educators and professionals to explore the deep connections between environment, health, and education through sportive or interactive outdoor experiences in the breathtaking natural landscapes of Bregenz, Bregenzerwald and its surrounding area— a region uniquely situated between lake and mountains. Combining environmental topics with physical activities and practical learning, this course provides fresh ideas and ready-to-use materials for classroom application, while also supporting personal wellbeing and sustainability awareness. In addition, participants learn how to improve their digital skills by completing digital tasks.
Course Highlights(depending on availability – program subject to change):
- The course offers a rich variety of outdoor activities like hiking in the Bregenzerwald Mountains or the Alps, along with an excursion to a site of ecological or environmental significance. - Participants will engage in an upcycling and environmental project at a local recycling station or visit an organic farm, where they will gain insights into circular agriculture and receive practical tips for implementing a school garden. - A hands-on fermentation workshop will highlight the connection between nutrition, gut health, and overall wellbeing.
The program also encourages participants to create digital media or local newspaper content — such as videos or photo stories — for use in school projects or on social media, supporting the development of digital skills. Throughout the week, there will be multiple opportunities for exchange and networking with colleagues from across Europe. All content is designed to be classroom-ready.
These reports also serve to highlight and acknowledge the support of the European Union and to share insights from the course with a wider audience.
Please note that all outdoor activities will be adapted to the physical abilities of the participants. This ensures that everyone can take part comfortably and without feeling overwhelmed, regardless of their fitness level.
If you have any specific interests, we would be happy to incorporate them into the course.
Erasmus+ funding is available.
Benefits
This Erasmus+ course offers a unique opportunity for teachers and educators to combine professional development with personal wellbeing, outdoor experiences, and cross-cultural exchange.
Professional Relevance: Participants gain ready-to-use content for subjects such as biology, geography, environmental education, health, and physical education. The activities are designed to be directly transferable to the classroom, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary and experiential learning.
Environmental Awareness & Sustainability: The course deepens participants’ understanding of ecological systems, sustainable practices, and the importance of environmental education — empowering them to inspire the next generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
Health & Wellbeing: Time spent in nature, movement-based sessions, and a focus on nutrition and gut health contribute to both physical and mental wellbeing. The course offers tools to promote a healthy lifestyle in and beyond the school setting.
Digital Competence: Through the creation of videos, photos, and reports, participants strengthen their digital skills, learn creative ways to share educational content, and explore the use of media for communication and reflection.
European Exchange & Networking: Teachers from across Europe come together to share ideas, experiences, and cultural perspectives. This builds long-lasting connections and fosters collaboration beyond the course.
Inclusive & Accessible: All outdoor activities are tailored to different fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can participate fully and comfortably.
Erasmus+ Eligible: The course is fully eligible for Erasmus+ funding, making it an accessible and cost-effective option for professional development abroad.
Arrival & Accommodation
Practical Information
Getting Here: Hittisau is well connected via public transport to the nearest cities Bregenz and Dornbirn, from where you can find train connections to major European cities, with Zurich and Munich just a short train ride away.
Accommodation: From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and modern apartments, Hittisau offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. However, we offer a special package of accommodation with breakfast or half-pension at the course venue Pension Bals.
Methodology & Objectives
Methodology This course is built on an experiential, hands-on approach that encourages learning through direct interaction with nature and practical activities. It combines field-based exploration, workshops, collaborative group work, guided reflection, and digital documentation. By actively engaging in diverse outdoor environments — from mountains to lakeshores — participants experience first-hand the connection between environmental education, health, and sustainable living.
Participants learn by doing: whether it's collecting and analyzing biodiversity data, visiting ecological sites, or experimenting with fermentation, every activity is designed to be immersive, interactive, and rooted in real-world relevance. The course also integrates digital storytelling and media creation, empowering educators to communicate their learning creatively and bring innovative tools back to the classroom.
Objectives
To strengthen educators' knowledge of environmental issues and sustainability practices
To promote outdoor learning and nature-based education as tools for student engagement and wellbeing
To explore the relationship between health, nutrition, and environmental awareness
To provide practical, classroom-ready activities for various school subjects
To enhance digital competence through creative media work and content sharing
To foster intercultural exchange and professional networking within the Erasmus+ community
To support the development of inclusive, adaptable teaching practices that are sensitive to different learning needs and physical abilities
By the end of the course, participants will have expanded both their professional toolkit and personal insight, returning home inspired and equipped to implement engaging, sustainability-focused education.
Cost and Erasmus+ Funding
The cost of the course is €580, which includes course fees, free coffee, complimentary cultural activities in the area throughout the week, and a certificate of attendance. Additional organizational costs may apply if registration is through an intermediary company. The company also offers an optional cultural package designed to enhance the connections between participants.
If the course takes place in the Bregenzerwald (Lingenau or Hittisau) and the participant stays in one of our partner accommodations (Hotel Adler Lingenau, Harald's Holiday Home, or Pension Bals) between May and October, the following are included in the price: 🚍 Free public transportation in the region from your arrival in Vorarlberg 🚡 Free access to many cable cars in the region 🏊 Free entry to public outdoor swimming pools
! We offer special prices for our participants at all partner accommodations, all year round:
Hotel Adler Lingenau: Accommodation with breakfast and/or half board
Pension Bals in Hittisau: Accommodation with half board
Harald's Ferienhaus in Langenegg: Beatiful self-catering holiday house for 2-3 people
Enjoy a comfortable stay at exclusive rates while making the most of your time in the beautiful Vorarlberg region!
Cultural Activities
On Tuesday and Friday of your Erasmus+ week, we are pleased to offer complimentary cultural activities centered around the course venue. You will have the opportunity to take part in a city tour that provides captivating insights into the people, traditions, and culture of Vorarlberg.
Additionally, we will arrange an excursion to a nearby attraction, landmark or mountain area, tailored to the season and weather conditions. Detailed information about these activities will be provided during the welcome event. We look forward to sharing these enriching experiences with you!
On Sunday before the course starts, you have the possibility to take part in an optional cultural activity. For further information please contact us directly.
Special Packages (Add-Ons)
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This Course requires a B1 level of English proficiency.
Hittisau Vorarlberg, Austria
Hittisau in the scenic Bregenzerwald - Your Immersion in Traditional Culture surrounded by Majestic Mountains. Nestled between the mountains of the Bregenzerwald valley, Hittisau is a secret escape in the heart of the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. This charming village offers a perfect blend of nature and vibrant green as well as traditional heritage and culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an inimitable and relaxing experience. Hittisau boasts a wide range of activities and culinary delights. The village seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern architecture, creating a unique atmosphere. With its exceptional restaurants and hotels, Hittisau stands out in the Bregenzerwald region, offering a perfect retreat where you can relax and rejuvenate both body and soul.
Join many educators from across Europe and elevate your teaching with hands-on training, expert-led workshops, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Our Erasmus+ courses are designed to inspire, connect, and empower teachers like you.
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