Everything you have to know before you go!
Based on the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange experience of members from Alpinistični odsek Kranj & Bergen Klatreklubb
At the end of May 2025, we—young alpinists, trainees, and sport climbers from Kranj Alpine Club (AO Kranj)—embarked on an unforgettable Erasmus+ Youth Exchange to Norway.
After months of preparation, we set off in two vans on a long journey through Austria, Germany, and Denmark, and finally arriving in the breathtaking fjord landscape of Uskedalen. There, we were greeted by majestic granite walls, warm hospitality, and a rich program of activities.
This Youth Exchange, that we named "Young Mountain Goats", was planned and organized in collaboration with our partner organization - Bergen Climbing Club (Bergen Klatreklubb). During our trip we got to know the traditions of Norwegian climbing. We learned how to build anchors, practiced belaying and rope techniques on outdoor trad routes, and visited their modern climbing gym in Bergen. There, we exchanged experiences with local climbers, discussed safety practices, and gained insights into route setting. The main goal of the exchange was to share knowledge and compare the approaches of our organizations. We discovered both differences and similarities—but most importantly, we learned a lot. ☺️
During the Slovenian cultural evening, we proudly shared our alpine history, cuisine, and traditions. Beyond climbing, we explored the surrounding mountains, reached the summit of Laurdalstind, and even took a dip in the cold North Sea. Our evenings were filled with socializing, games, conversations, and intercultural workshops.
On this page, you'll find useful tips to help you plan your climbing journey to Norway with ease. :)
Planinsko društvo Kranj (Mountaineering assocciation Kranj), established in 1899, is one of the largest and most active mountaineering clubs in Slovenia, with around 1,500 members across various sections.
The initiator of this project is the Alpine Section (Alpinistični odsek Kranj), the assocciation’s core, runs an annual alpine school, climbing camps, and supports outstanding ascents and international expeditions. Its members include both alpinists and sport climbers. The section maintains climbing walls, offering affordable training for all ages and fostering a strong community spirit.
Other sections are: Youth Section, Guiding Section, Trail Marking Section and Nejc Zaplotnik Section.
All activities are based on volunteer work, with members dedicating their time to creating programs and events for the local and wider community.
Bergen Climbing Club is the largest climbing club in Norway with over 3,500 members. The club operates three climbing gyms in Bergen, including Vestveggen, the largest facility in northern Europe, employing experienced instructors, coaches, and route setters.
Much of the club’s activities rely upon volunteer work, including outdoor crag development, publishing guidebooks, organizing competitions and social events. The club has a particular interest in promoting the health and wellbeing benefits of climbing though it's support of many local initiatives for special needs groups. Through this activity Bergen Climbing Club works for the further development of all climbing disciplines and aspects in Bergen and Norway.
Courses and activities are promoted through the club’s website, social media platforms, climbing gyms, an active volunteer network, and recommendations from previous participants.
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