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An unforgettable experience in Iceland

A group of Greenshaw geography students had a once-in-a-lifetime to Iceland during the Easter break.

Day 1

Our Iceland adventure is officially underway! Students met bright and early at Heathrow Airport at 9.00am, ready to begin their geography-packed journey. After a smooth flight with Icelandair, we touched down at Keflavík Airport and were greeted by the dramatic Icelandic landscape and crisp Arctic air.

Our first stop was the Bridge Between the Continents – where students were able to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, seeing first-hand the effects of plate divergence.

We then visited the Gunnuhver hot springs, a truly atmospheric site with steaming vents and boiling mud pools – an unforgettable introduction to Iceland’s geothermal energy and volcanic activity.

Students are now settled into the hotel and looking forward to a packed itinerary ahead. A brilliant start to what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Day 2

Our students are having an unforgettable experience on their second day in Iceland. The day began with a relaxing swim in the naturally heated waters of the Secret Lagoon – a unique opportunity to experience Iceland’s geothermal activity first-hand.

The group then visited the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, where they witnessed the power and scale of one of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks. This was followed by a stop at the Geysir geothermal area, where students observed erupting hot springs and bubbling mud pools, linking perfectly to their studies of tectonic and geothermal processes.

A real highlight was the chance to see fresh lava flows from recent volcanic activity – an incredible reminder that Iceland is a dynamic landscape still being shaped before our eyes.

Later this afternoon, the group will explore Thingvellir National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s also a site of huge historical significance, home to Iceland’s first parliament.

It’s been a day full of awe-inspiring landscapes and rich geographical learning.

Day 3

Day 3 of our Iceland adventure has taken students along the stunning south coast for more incredible sights and hands-on geography.

The day began with a visit to the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, where students braved the spray to get up close to this powerful cascade. From there, the group headed to Sólheimajökull glacier, where they explored the dramatic landscape shaped by ice, learning more about glacial processes and climate change.

Afterwards, we stopped in the coastal town of Vík, followed by a visit to the striking basalt columns and black sand beach at Reynisfjara—a perfect opportunity to see textbook examples of coastal landforms in real life.

Later this afternoon, the group will visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, famous for the path that allows you to walk behind the falls. To round off the day, students will enjoy a fun, geography-themed pub-style quiz this evening at the hotel.

Another fantastic day of learning, adventure and unforgettable memories!

Day 4

Our final full day in Iceland has been another memorable one, filled with stunning landscapes, interactive experiences, and a chance to reflect on all that we’ve seen.

The day began with a breath of fresh (and slightly sulphurous!) air at the Hveradalir Geothermal Area – a beautifully coloured, steaming valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It was a powerful reminder of the geothermal forces constantly shaping Iceland’s landscape.

From there, we travelled to FlyOver Iceland – an immersive flight simulation experience that takes you on a virtual journey across Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. With motion seating, wind, mist and scents, it really felt like soaring over glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and fjords – an unforgettable and inspiring highlight for everyone!

Next, we headed into Reykjavík, where students visited the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church. After climbing to the top of the tower, we were rewarded with panoramic views across the colourful city and the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Back at the hotel, the group rested up and reflected on an incredible few days of geography in action. Tomorrow, we head to the airport for our return flight to Heathrow.

Mr Barnes, Geography Teacher