Iceland Adventure

DAY 1

After setting off from school yesterday, our group of 43 students and staff arrived safely in Iceland last night following a short delay. The pupils were exemplary throughout the journey — a real credit to the school.

After checking into the hotel and enjoying a quick meatball pasta tea, we headed straight out on an Aurora Hunt… and what a start to the trip! A truly spectacular display of the Northern Lights — a bucket list moment for everyone. 

An unforgettable first night in Iceland — we can’t wait to see what the rest of the trip brings!

DAY 2

Another incredible day exploring the land of fire and ice! After breakfast, we set off for the famous Golden Circle tour with a local guide. First stop — Hellisheidi Power Station, where students learned how Iceland harnesses geothermal energy to power the nation.

Next, we headed to the Secret Lagoon for a magical dip in the outdoor natural hot springs — a truly unforgettable experience! The day continued with visits to the breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall and the spectacular Geysir, which didn’t disappoint with its dramatic blow eruptions.

To end the tour, we visited Thingvellir National Park where students had the chance to stand directly between the two tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia. Walking between these colossal plates as the sun set over the frozen Icelandic landscape was a super way to end the tour. We may have even had a little snowball fight!!

After dinner, we took a peaceful evening walk along Reykjavik’s harbour, finishing at the stunning Hallgrímskirkja Church — the perfect end to a busy yet awe-inspiring day.

DAY 3

Our South Shore Adventure was nothing short of spectacular! First stop — the mighty Skógafoss Waterfall, where everyone got completely drenched but loved every minute of it. From there, we explored the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara, marvelling at the towering basalt columns and incredible coastal scenery.

We then took an unforgettable glacier walk at Sólheimajökull — its sheer size and icy formations left everyone amazed. We rounded off the tour with a visit to the stunning Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, taking in the breathtaking views behind the curtain of water.

After evening meal there was still energy to spare for a late-night swim in the local outdoor geothermal baths in the heavy snowfall — the perfect way to unwind after another action-packed day! A night to truly remember for all.

DAY 4

Our final day in Iceland was the perfect way to round off an unforgettable trip! The morning began with some free time in Reykjavík, where students explored the city, sampled local delicacies and pastries, and soaked up the vibrant Icelandic culture.

Next, we made our way to the world-famous Blue Lagoon — a real highlight of the trip! Students were fantastic, relaxing in the milky-blue geothermal waters and enjoying the iconic silica mud masks.

On the journey back, an unexpected stop at the 2024 Grindavík lava flow became a real favourite — witnessing the raw power of nature and the lasting impact of volcanic activity was both fascinating and humbling. Touching recent volcanic lava flows was something else!

A few more bucket-list moments ticked off, and a truly memorable way to end our Iceland adventure — seeing first-hand the beauty and power of our planet. 

DAY 5 HOME SAFE

Home Safe from Iceland!

We’ve safely returned from an absolutely breathtaking few days in Iceland, and what an adventure it’s been! The students were truly exemplary throughout, embracing every part of the trip — and creating lifelong memories along the way.

From exploring the Golden Circle, Hellisheidi Power Station, and the Secret Lagoon, to marvelling at Gullfoss Waterfall and the erupting Geysir, every day was packed with unforgettable experiences. Our South Shore Adventure took us to Skógafoss, the black sands of Reynisfjara, and the Sólheimajökull Glacier, before finishing with the spectacular Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and a well-deserved dip in the local outdoor geothermal pools — all while heavy snow fell around us!

We also enjoyed some free time in Reykjavík, relaxed in the world-famous Blue Lagoon, and even made an impromptu visit to the 2024 Grindavík lava flow, seeing first-hand the incredible — and humbling — power of nature.

The weather was kind to us throughout, with crisp, clear evenings that rewarded us with glimpses of the Northern Lights, rounding off what was a truly once-in-a-lifetime trip.

A huge well done to all the students for representing Priory so brilliantly.

See you next time!

Mr Metcalfe,Mrs Cauchi, Mr Eastham, Mr Eccles, Mrs Ham, Mrs Kursitis