After three years of collaboration, research, and adventure across Europe, the Erasmus+ project “Beyond Horizons” has officially reached the summit of its journey — and the view is promising for the future of inclusive outdoor sports.
Led by ENOS, the project brought together 10 partners from across Austria, Sweden, Norway, France, and Ireland with one clear goal: making outdoor sport a more accessible and empowering space for young people across Europe — especially those at risk of marginalisation.
Understanding Barriers to Break Them Down
Beyond Horizons began with a strong research foundation. The first phase focused on collecting and comparing data from EU and non-EU contexts to identify the real barriers preventing young people from accessing outdoor sport.
The result? A series of analytical reports — now forming Step 1 of the Beyond Horizons Toolkit — that map social, economic, cultural, and environmental obstacles to youth inclusion. These insights have significantly expanded the knowledge base available to the European outdoor sector.
Learning by Moving: Knowledge Exchange Across Borders
Research soon turned into action. Project partners took part in an international knowledge exchange programme, visiting each other’s countries to explore best practices and working methodologies firsthand.
From snowy Nordic terrains to dramatic mountain landscapes and Ireland’s rolling green scenery, experts and young participants shared experiences, challenges, and solutions. These exchanges were more than study visits — they amplified youth voices, explored environmental concerns, and redefined what “accessible outdoor sport” can look like in practice.
The testimonies gathered along the way have since inspired hundreds of professionals across the outdoor sector.
The Cornerstone: The Beyond Horizons Toolkit
All project outcomes converge in its most tangible legacy: the Beyond Horizons Toolkit.
This platform gathers:
- Research reports
- Practical recommendations
- Proven best practices
- Expert and youth testimonies
The Toolkit represents a major step forward for inclusion in the European outdoor sector, offering organisations concrete guidance to reduce barriers and create opportunities for young people to take a more active role in society.
Working With Youth, Not Just For Them
True to its philosophy, the project placed young people at the centre — not as participants, but as co-creators.
During the final year, more than 30 young people from diverse countries and cultural backgrounds joined Youth Panels, engaging in a second exchange programme. They tested Toolkit elements, participated in outdoor activities applying best practices, and helped shape the project’s practical tools.
Their collaboration led to a key outcome:
The Youth Manifesto for the Outdoors
This forward-looking document sets out a shared vision for the future, outlining both the rights and responsibilities young people see for themselves within society and policy. It will serve as a roadmap for the outdoor sector in the years ahead.
A Strong Finish — and a Stronger Beginning
Project results were shared widely through national events, European conferences, and digital platforms. The closing highlight came in late 2025 with the Online Dissemination Seminar, which gathered more than 150 participants from across Europe. Youth Panel representatives contributed directly, offering authentic perspectives on the learning and opportunities created through the project.
Beyond Horizons May End — The Mission Continues
While the project cycle concludes, its impact is only just unfolding. ENOS and its expert groups will continue working to ensure long-term influence of the knowledge generated.
The invitation now goes out to the entire European outdoor community:
How can we make our everyday practices more inclusive? How can outdoor sport become a stronger pathway to opportunity for young people?
Beyond Horizons has shown that when we listen, collaborate, and step outside — real change happens.