The ERASMUS International Week “Outdoors & People” offers a unique opportunity to foster international collaboration around outdoor sports, education, and human connection. This week-long event will bring experts, educators, and students together to share knowledge through lectures, workshops, and roundtables. We will explore how the outdoors can enhance learning, personal well-being, and environmental sustainability while examining the role of outdoor sports and education in shaping higher education and holistic development.
This event promotes cultural exchange, creating lasting connections and networks for future partnerships and student exchanges. Participants will have the chance to explore the beautiful region of Rio Maior, Portugal, experiencing its vibrant culture, history, and outdoor wonders.
Join us for a week of discovery, learning, and connection as we explore how outdoor spaces can unite people and inspire educational growth.
- Strengthen bilateral cooperation with the hosting institution and other international partners to explore new collaborations;
- Promote higher education institutions and seek new partnerships;
- Encourage students to participate in mobility programs by gaining insight into international opportunities;
- With collaborative work as our central focus, we aim for this space to be a space for physical activity, socialization, and celebration of outdoor culture;
- A hub for sharing academic and professional knowledge.
- Institutions: Strengthen international relations and foster new joint activities;
- Staff Members: Enhance future cooperation and student-teacher exchanges.
- Meetings for Sharing Experiences: Exchange of knowledge on outdoor sports, health, and education.
- Bilateral Meetings: Collaborative discussions with international partners;
- Cultural Visits: Exploring the local heritage and outdoor activities;
- This mobility includes the participation in the International Congress of Outdoor Sports;
- Participation in workshops;
- Presentation Sessions and Poster Presentations: Insights into outdoor sports, tourism, performance, and education.
- Professional Development: Exchange of best practices in mobility and outdoor education;
- Recruitment: Attract potential future students and faculty to mobility programs;
- Partnerships: Establish new agreements and collaborations.
- Internationalization at home practices
- European Universities Alliances
- Erasmus+ regions
- Cross-border cooperation
- International Officers
- University staff involved in international activities.
- Other staff members interested in international affairs.
From 23rd to 27th June, 2025
160€
Included in the fee, are:
- Two guided tours (guided tour on the last day is not included);
- Entry to the European Outdoor Film Tour (held on the 25th of June);
- Lunches (except lunch on the second day), coffee breaks, and one formal dinner.
Between June 25 and 27, the “Outdoors & People” International Week runs in parallel with “ICOS+, The International Congress of Outdoor Sports;” therefore, some activities will be shared.
May 5th, 2025
- Deadline for applying: May 5th, 2025
- Maximum number of participants: 50
- Feedback on Acceptance/ Selection Criteria: By order of application.
- Be aware that applying does not mean automatic acceptance.
English
Travel and accommodation are not included in the fee but we have partnered with local accommodation to guarantee better prices.
See Tips & Advice for more information.
Maria João Madeira registration@icoscongress.com
TIPS & ADVICE
Pedra de Sal – Hostel & Suites
Event partner (10-15% off in rooms/other discounts in dormitory). Contact info@pedradesal.com for the discount code for EIWOP participants.
Hotel Paulo VI (NO DISCOUNT IS APPLIED)
Contact hotelpaulovi@gmail.com for reservations.
Rio Maior Hotel
Event partner (15% off). Contact geral@riomaiorhotel.com for reservations.
SIENNA Hotel
EIWOP partner (15% off). Contact info@siennahotel.pt for reservations
Moínho da Senta
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@casadoforal.com for reservations.
Mar da Serra
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@casadoforal.com for reservations.
Moinho.com
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@casadoforal.com for reservations.
Casa d’ Aldeia
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@casadoforal.com for reservations.
1/4 na Serra
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@casadoforal.com for reservations.
Cabeço dos Três Moinhos
Event partner (10% off). Contact info@cabecotresmoinhos.com for reservations.
Armazém de Sal
Event partner (15% off). Contact info@armazemdesal.pt for reservations.
Casal Malaposta
Event partner. Contact alcasalmalaposta@gmail.com for details and discounts for participants.
How to get to and from Rio Maior:
Travel from Lisbon Airport or Porto Airport to the city of Rio Maior
The city of Rio Maior is located 75km North of Lisbon (45-50 minutes travel by car)
The city of Rio Maior is located 245km South of Porto (2h30-3h00 travel by car)
Due to the short distance, we recommend Lisbon airport.
By BUS:
Rio Maior has no train station, so trains are not an option for traveling from the airport to Rio Maior. Transfer options by Bus may include (https://rede-expressos.pt/en or https://www.flixbus.pt/). The bus station in Rio Maior is located 150 meters from the venue, and it is an easy walk to your accommodation or dining options within the city.
By Táxi:
From Lisbon Airport: The estimated taxi fares (which may vary) range between €50 and €65 for a vehicle accommodating up to 4 people. For cars with more passengers, the price may increase slightly. Be aware that the taxi’s final fare is the taxi company´s responsibility
By Uber:
You can estimate the cost of your travel using the Uber Website. Choose Humberto Delgado Airport, if you are coming from Lisbon, or Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, if you are traveling from Porto.
In Rio Maior and how to get around:
Rio Maior is a small, flat city. You can easily get around on foot.
To travel from Rio Maior to any other major town, other than bus and taxi services check out the rental car services available in the region.
Once settled in Rio Maior, you can explore the Ribatejo region. Get some inspiration HERE and HERE
June in Portugal is usually warm, with average temperatures ranging from 24ºC to 27ºC (highs) and 15ºC to 18ºC (lows). Rainfall is typically low during this month.
There is no dress code. The important thing is to feel comfortable throughout the day.
Bring sports gear! During this week we will have physical activities organized early in the morning and at the end of the day.
If you wish, you can take a shower after the activities at our facilities. Please bring a towel, toiletries, and a change of clothes. Lockers will also be available for you to store your belongings during the activity periods.
If you look at the program, you will notice that the time between physical activities (held at the start or end of the day) or practical workshops and the main sessions are limited. If you plan to participate in physical activities or workshops, it might be convenient to arrive ready for the day with your gear, avoiding the need to return to your accommodation.
