In February, 21 eager pupils from Years 10, 11, and 12 embarked on an unforgettable journey to Iceland. This adventure, set against the backdrop of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes, offered a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that none of the pupils will soon forget. From exploring majestic waterfalls to snorkelling between tectonic plates in waters just above freezing, every moment of the trip was as exciting as it was educational.
The moment our flight touched down in Iceland, the sense of anticipation was palpable. The island, known for its stunning beauty and unpredictable nature, captivated our senses immediately. As we journeyed further into this land of fire and ice, the raw power of the environment became apparent. Our first stop was an enthralling lava show, where molten lava was poured in front of us. The intense heat emanating from the liquid rock could be felt several feet away, making the experience both humbling and awe-inspiring. This demonstration not only showed the dramatic nature of Iceland’s volcanic activity but also set the stage for the exploration that would follow.
One of the most remarkable parts of the trip was our visit to a lava tunnel. After witnessing the creation of this natural wonder during the lava show, we walked through an enormous lava tunnel, which further highlighted the magnificent forces at work beneath Iceland’s surface. The sheer scale and beauty of the tunnel left everyone in awe, making it one of the highlights of our trip.
The adventure continued with a snorkelling excursion in the Silfra Fissure, where pupils had the opportunity to swim between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. In waters that hovered just above 2°C, the crystal-clear visibility and the surreal experience of swimming between two continents made this a truly unique and unforgettable activity. Although the water was chilling, the clarity allowed us to appreciate the stunning beauty of the underwater landscape and the scarcity of life that thrives in such extreme conditions.
Our exploration of Iceland’s geothermal activity was equally thrilling. The geysers that erupted before us were a spectacular sight, with their explosive force and towering columns of water. We also had the chance to sample eggs boiled in geothermal springs – a true testament to the island’s natural wonders. The students were fascinated by the ingenuity required to live in such an extreme environment, where food is not always easy to cultivate. However, we were treated to a taste of Iceland’s ingenuity with tomatoes grown in one of the island’s most successful greenhouses, a rare but delicious treat.
The waterfalls of Iceland were another highlight, each more magnificent than the last. Their thunderous cascades and the mist that surrounded them created an atmosphere that seemed straight out of a fantasy novel, with many of us remarking that it felt like we had stepped into a scene from The Lord of the Rings. These natural wonders left us all in awe of the power and beauty of Icelandic nature.
Equally magical was our experience riding Icelandic horses. These small, sturdy creatures are renowned for their unique gait and resilient nature. Although some horses had minds of their own, the pupils were quick to demonstrate their talent and confidence, making this a memorable experience for all involved. The pupils who had not ridden horses before took to it with enthusiasm, and the connection with the animals added a special element to the trip.
One of the more striking sights was the black sand beach, where the powerful waves crashed onto the shore with a terrifying energy taking in the stunning view of the jagged cliffs and black sands. The immense power of the ocean added a sense of humility to the experience. While swimming in the turbulent waters was not an option, we had already managed to enjoy a relaxing swim in the naturally heated waters when we visited the Secret Lagoon. The contrast of the warm water against the crisp Icelandic air was a delightful way to unwind. And of course, an unforgettable bucket list moment—witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights!
In addition to the natural wonders, we were also introduced to Icelandic folklore. Our tour guide shared fascinating tales about the hidden people – mischievous mythical creatures blamed for misfortunes. This intriguing aspect of Icelandic culture added a touch of mystery and enchantment to our journey.
Though we were unable to embark on the planned glacier walk due to unpredictable weather conditions, seeing the glacier from a distance was enough to impress upon us the scale and grandeur of Iceland’s ice-capped landscapes. It was a reminder of the ever-changing and sometimes hazardous nature of the country.
Throughout the trip, the pupils were also treated to Icelandic cuisine, which certainly did not disappoint. From hearty traditional dishes to modern Icelandic delicacies, the food offered a perfect reflection of the country’s unique culture and resources.
In conclusion, the School trip to Iceland was an extraordinary experience that combined adventure, education, and the sheer beauty of nature. From the stunning waterfalls and geothermal wonders to the magical encounters with Icelandic culture and folklore, this journey truly allowed the pupils to experience the land of fire and ice in all its glory. It was an unforgettable adventure that left everyone with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of Iceland’s unique landscape and culture.
Categories: Senior School