The 2023 WHS Iceland trip during the October half term holidays was an unforgettable experience for 36 students (from Years 10 to 13) and 4 staff; filled with fantastic geography, geology, culture, history and fun! Here’s a brief diary of their packed itinerary…
DAY 1
The cold and windy conditions, didn’t stop them enjoying their excursions, which included highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula: Lake Klelfarvatn, the Seltún geothermal area and the Stampar volcanic fissure.
They were guided through amazing geology, spectacular scenery, Icelandic history, folklore and a series of dubious smells! They stopped off at the cod drying racks and experienced the sulphurous stench of the hot springs! The afternoon was spent taking in the culture, shops and sights of Reykjavik.
DAY 2
It was Golden Circle day for our Iceland explorers, thankfully, it was a dry and fairly mild day. The day began with a visit to Hellisheidi Power Station to learn about geothermal power and its use throughout Iceland.Following on, they visited a number of natural features, starting at Kerid crater and the amazing Gullfoss waterfall. They then had time observing the Great Geyser, which spouts up to 25m every 5-7 minutes.
The afternoon was spent in the Pingvellir National Park, at the meeting point of two tectonic plates. Finally, the day was rounded off with an evening quiz and a glimpse of the Northern lights (Photo aurora borealis: Finn Massey).
DAY 3
The frosty Monday morning gave way to a beautiful, clear and warm day, perfect for the excursion to the South Shore.Starting at the 200ft Skógafoss waterfall, the group were then taken to Reynishverfi, a spectacular black sand beach with basalt columns and views of sea stacks.The afternoon included a walk up to Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue. The final stop was Seljalandfoss waterfall, where they were able to walk behind the waterfall.
