UALS – Iceland Trip 

On Sunday 28 May 2023 UALS departed for Iceland. This was part of our plan to bring Geography to life for our students and explore an otherwise unavailable environment.

An action-packed 5 days followed exploring Iceland’s unique environment. Highlights of the first day included exploring the Bridge

Between Continents and Gunnuhver Hot Springs as well as exploring our first volcano at Stóra-Dímon.
Our second day saw us explore the interactive Lava Centre to explore the science behind the forces that shaped the landscape. The afternoon was spent exploring Reynisfjara Beach (Black Sand Beach) and the town of Vik. This was a fantastic opportunity to see several coastal landforms in one place. The highlight of day two was a hike across Sólheimajökull glacier complete with crampons and harnesses!

The third day started with exploring the Secret Lagoon a naturally occurring hot spring which remains warm all year round at 38 – 40 Celsius. The Geothermal pool also boasts a small Geysir which erupts once every five minutes. The afternoon was spent exploring the golden triangle and all of its numerous geysers and waterfalls.

On our final full day, we started by exploring the stunning hills behind Hveragerði. Witnessing powerful hot springs and steaming mud pots, evidencing the geothermal activity simmering just below the surface in this area. Which gave us a chance to experience the “real” Iceland”. The afternoon was spent experiencing Reykjavík.

After an early start, we returned to school on the 5th day. All students were enthused by what they had seen and experienced.