Outdoor Life – Out into the open and deep into nature

In Outdoor Life we follow nature’s rhythm – in sun, rain, heat, and cold. We sail, hike, climb, and cook over an open fire while learning the skills that make it possible to safely and confidently explore nature. It’s not just about being outside, but about being present – and about building the trust, calm, and strength that come from solving tasks and challenges together.

Follow nature’s rhythm

In Outdoor Life we sense nature’s rhythm and its changing colours as we go on hikes and sleep under the open sky. We will encounter deep silence and challenging darkness, eat creamed funnel chanterelles, and enjoy a dram made from St. John’s wort.

During a semester we paddle kayaks and canoes, climb trees, and go on hikes in the forests around Silkeborg.

The beauty in blazing sun and driving rain

Nature sets the scene in both blazing sunshine and pouring rain. It’s not about getting out into nature, but about getting into it. The key words are love of nature, simplicity, presence, stillness, and gaining the feeling of mastery. We work with outdoor skills so you gain practical tools to venture into nature, whether it’s for an afternoon or a week.

Outdoor Life is also about practicing self-awareness and trust in others. When we hike in the rain, struggle with an earth-baked roast, or belay a partner while climbing a 20-meter beech tree, you discover that unity and cooperation are essential.

Our facilities for Outdoor life

  • New large outdoor building constructed on sustainable principles
  • Kayak and canoe center with direct access to Silkeborg Langsø and the Gudenå River
  • 30 sea kayaks and 14 canoes
  • Nature area with Norwegian-style fire hut and shelter
  • Tunnel tents and single-pole lavvu tents
  • Climbing gear and winter mountain equipment
  • Climbing and bouldering facilities
  • Mountain bikes

Teachers

  • Michael Rasmussen

    Teacher

  • Rasmus Simonsen

    Teacher

Schedule

  • Monday

    • Breakfast

    • Morning Assembly

    • Outdoor Life

    • Lunch

    • Elective Subject 1

    • Study Trip Preparations

    • Dinner

  • Tuesday

    • Breakfast

    • Morning Assembly

    • Existential subject

    • Lunch

    • Singing Lesson

    • Elective Subject 2

    • Dinner

  • Wednesday

    • Breakfast

    • Morning Assembly

    • Existential Subject

    • House Group Meeting

    • Lunch

    • Common Meeting

    • Swimming (Optional)

    • Dinner

    • Open School / Cultural Evening

  • Thursday

    • Breakfast

    • Morning Assembly

    • Outdoor Life

    • Lunch

    • Outdoor Life

    • Dinner

  • Friday

    • Breakfast

    • Morning Assembly

    • Immersion Friday / Workshops

    • Lunch

    • Immersion Friday / Workshops

    • Dinner

Existential and Elective Subjects

At Silkeborg Højskole, we offer a wide range of subjects. The list of elective and existential subjects is dynamic, and new subjects are added to the menu each semester. Elective and Existential Subjects are chosen upon arrival, with a 1st–3rd priority system. We always aim to fulfill as many first priorities as possible.