In June 2025, Year 8 students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Iceland – a country of extraordinary geological wonders, rich legends, and dramatic natural beauty. The trip was packed with educational experiences, exciting sights, and plenty of memories that will stay with everyone for years to come.
Day 1: Bridging Continents and Ghostly Legends
After flying from London Stansted to Keflavik, the group’s Icelandic adventure began with a visit to the Bridge Between Continents, a symbolic crossing over the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Next stop was Gunnuhver Hot Springs, a bubbling, steaming landscape steeped in geothermal activity and folklore. According to legend, the area is haunted by the spirit of Gunna, a ghost banished there by a priest 400 years ago. After a fascinating start, the group arrived at Guesthouse Húsid, their base for the trip.
Day 2: The Golden Circle – Waterfalls, Geysers and Greenhouses
The day began with a relaxing dip in the naturally heated Secret Lagoon, where students learned about Icelandic bathing customs. From there, the group visited the Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse, discovering how geothermal energy powers sustainable farming in the Icelandic climate.
The afternoon included some of Iceland’s most iconic natural sites. At Gullfoss Waterfall, the force of glacial meltwater tumbling into a deep canyon was awe-inspiring. Next was the Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser erupted every few minutes. The final stop was Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Iceland’s parliament was founded in 930 AD, and the tectonic rift is clearly visible.
Day 3: Volcanoes, Renewable Energy and City Life
Day 3 started at the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant, where students explored how Iceland harnesses its natural energy to reduce carbon emissions. The group then headed into Reykjavík for some sightseeing and shopping, before heading out to see the aftermath of recent volcanic eruptions in Nátthagi Valley and the striking crater of Stóra Eldborg.
Day 4: Waterfalls, Glaciers and Black Sand Beaches
The final full day was one of the most visually stunning. First was the interactive Lava Centre, followed by visits to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls – one of which allowed students to walk behind the curtain of water. They also stopped at Sólheimajökull Glacier, a reminder of Iceland’s icy heart and the effects of climate change.
The coastal town of Vík and nearby Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach provided unforgettable views of towering basalt columns and sea stacks, although safety warnings about powerful waves were taken very seriously.
Day 5: Farewell to Iceland
After an early departure, the group returned home full of stories and a much deeper understanding of Iceland’s incredible geology, sustainable practices, and culture.
This trip was more than just sightseeing—it was a real-world geography lesson, an environmental awareness journey, and a true adventure into the heart of one of the world’s most unique landscapes.