Fire and Ice Adventures in Iceland

During the October half term, a group of Truro School GCSE and A-Level Geology pupils embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Iceland, the land of fire and ice. Accompanied by staff and expert Icelandic guides, the trip brought classroom learning to life through breathtaking landscapes, geological wonders, and hands-on experiences.

The group’s first stop was the Reykjanes Peninsula, where they stood between continents at the Midlina Bridge and witnessed Iceland’s volcanic power at Gunnuhver and Brimketill. They also met members of Iceland’s renowned Search and Rescue Team and saw the effects of recent eruptions near Grindavík before enjoying dinner in Reykjavík and visiting the Icelandic Lava Show.

Over the following days, students ventured deep underground through the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel, explored the geothermal landscape of Hellisheiði, and marvelled at the colourful Kerið crater lake. Visits to the Lava Centre and geothermal power plants offered valuable insight into how Iceland harnesses its natural energy.

The group then travelled along Iceland’s dramatic south coast, walking behind the waterfall at Seljalandsfoss, standing before the mighty Skógafoss, and trekking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier with ice picks and crampons. They also visited the basalt columns and black sands of Reynisfjara Beach near Vik.

A highlight of the week was exploring the famous Golden Circle, from the tectonic rifts at Þingvellir National Park to the erupting geysers of Strokkur and the thundering cascades of Gullfoss. The students also relaxed at geothermal spas, including Fontana and Hvammsvík, rounding off an awe-inspiring week of discovery before returning home.

The Iceland trip provided students with a unique opportunity to witness geology in action, from glaciers and volcanoes to renewable energy and cultural heritage, creating lifelong memories and deepening their understanding of the natural world.

A huge thank you to all the staff involved in making this trip so special.

With their peers also returning from a surf trip to Morocco, it has been an incredible half term for out-of-classroom learning. Find out more about our rich trip offering at Truro School here.