An Adventure in Iceland: Our First International Scout Camp
This summer, 26 of our Scouts and Explorers embarked on their first international camp to Iceland. They spent their days exploring the incredible sights, making new friends from different parts of the world, and marvelling at the natural wonders around them. Our group stayed at the International Scout Campsite of Úlfljótsvatn, where they participated in a range of activities that challenged them both physically and mentally. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our Scouts, and we're excited to share some of the highlights of our incredible Iceland camp!
Upon arriving at the campsite, the group went on a hike around the surrounding landscape. The views were breathtaking, and the Scouts were amazed by the unique geology of the area. Iceland's landscape of glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls was unlike anything they had ever seen before. The hike was a great way for the Scouts to bond as a group, and they were eager to explore more of what Iceland had to offer.
While the group did visit some amazing sites during the camp, they also had plenty of time to enjoy the campsite itself. One of their favorite activities was lighting fires. They created the best fire circle ever but were constantly pestered by pesky flies, resulting in many members donning midge nets. Despite the nuisance of the flies, they didn't let it dampen their mood, and they continued to enjoy their time in the great outdoors.
Singing was also a popular activity at the campsite. Helen, one of the leaders, learned some traditional Icelandic songs, including a lovely springtime canon and a spooky ghost tale. The Scouts happily joined in, and they all had a great time learning new songs and sharing some of their own.
Another unforgettable experience for our Scouts was meeting other Scouts and volunteers from different parts of the world. They had the opportunity to share their cultures, learn about others, and form new friendships. This was a great way to broaden their horizons, and they truly appreciated how Scouting brought people from different backgrounds together.
At the end of the trip, the Scouts left Iceland feeling inspired and rejuvenated. They gained new skills, met new people, and explored a part of the world they may never have had the chance to see otherwise. For many, this was a life-changing experience, and they will cherish the memories they made in Iceland forever.
Ten facts about International Scout Campsite of Úlfljótsvatn
The International Scout Campsite of Úlfljótsvatn is located in southwestern Iceland,
just a short drive from the capital city of Reykjavik.
The campsite is situated on the shore of Lake Úlfljótsvatn, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
It was established in 1963 and has been hosting international scout groups ever since.
The campsite is run by the Icelandic Boy and Girl Scout Association, making it a truly authentic scouting experience.
The facilities at the campsite include a main building with sleeping quarters, kitchen, dining hall, and meeting rooms.
There are also several outdoor camping areas for those who prefer to sleep under the stars.
The campsite offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and geothermal pool visits.
Scouts can also participate in traditional Icelandic games and learn about the country's rich Viking history.
The campsite is open year-round and welcomes scouts from all over the world to experience the beauty and adventure of Iceland.
Overall, the Iceland camp was an incredible experience that enriched the lives of our Scouts and leaders. They faced new challenges, made new friends, and explored a beautiful country. We hope that by sharing their experiences, we can inspire others to take on similar adventures. Scouting is not just about learning new skills and earning badges; it's also about creating lifelong memories that will stay with you forever. We're grateful for the opportunity to have had this experience, and we hope our Scouts will carry these memories with them for years to come.
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