It boasts some of the most varied terrain in the world….

From ice fields to geothermal spas and glacier-fed waterfalls to explosive geysers.

Iceland has also provided the backdrop to the challenge of a lifetime for 25 LWC parents, Sternians and staff who have just returned from the land of fire and ice.

The group has been raising money for the Lord Wandsworth College Foundation, which helps children who have lost the support of one or both parents. This is the second overseas fundraising challenge to be completed by members of the LWC community, following the success of the Sahara Trek in 2023, which raised more than £50,000.

But Iceland presented a very different prospect.

The group flew to Reykjavik on the 26^th February and began their three-day trek the following day. The journey took in the largest natural lake in Iceland, passing geothermal hotspots along the way, before the intensity was ramped up along steep mountain passes in difficult conditions. Hot springs and bubbling mud pools provided some welcome distractions.

LWC Fundraising Manager, Kate Boyd kept a diary of the trip for us and provides an insight into the conditions faced by the group:

Day One – “Today was a great first day. We took an hour-long drive out to the National Park and walked 10km, setting off in beautiful snow! The terrain was really tough with heavy snow having fallen overnight. We needed our poles, crampons and snow gators. The team worked well together, walking along the North American tectonic plate, which was incredible. Days two and three are set to be even more challenging but everyone’s support means so much.”

Day Two – “Today has been hard! We travelled for an hour to get out to the mountains in order to begin our 10km hike. The wind is incredibly strong and the climb was really steep. The team were showered in hail and rain, with parts of the mountain covered in snow and ice. Despite this, the scenery was jaw-dropping, even though we were all on the very edge of our comfort zones looking at it! Because of this and what we’ve achieved so far, it was a fantastic day. The group remain delighted to know that the donations continue to keep on coming. We passed hot steaming sulphuric lakes and walked over black volcanic stones. Our outdoor gear is definitely being put to the test!”

Day Three – “Today began with a climb in the snow-covered mountains. Bubbling hot springs lay on either side of our mountain pass, which we were told under no uncertain terms to stick to! We needed our crampons again and conditions were icy and slushy. Once at the top, we paused to record a video message, wishing the LWC U15 rugby team some luck, as they set out to face Wellington College in the semi-final of the U15 Continental Tyres Schools Cup. Heading down the mountain, we were given an opportunity to jump in the warm thermal waters. Snow began to fall heavily on the group, but the dip was a well-earned treat for our sore, aching muscles. We then headed back to Reykjavik for our final evening and a celebratory dinner!

The trip has been breathtaking and challenging in equal measure. But the most uplifting part of it has been the comradery of the group; brought together by the shared desire to raise as much money as possible for the LWC Foundation. It has been a pleasure to be part of it.”

You can still donate to the group’s Just Giving Page here.