Working and Action under the Vatnajökull

WORK/PROJECT:

This is a new project that gives SEEDS volunteers the opportunity to work in very diverse tasks. It takes place in a traditional Icelandic sheep farm where the farmers run as well a guesthouse and a restaurant.

The volunteers will be working on some renovation tasks such as painting jobs and light construction work. They will as well be doing various environmental works; removing old fences, cleaning up in the area and gardening. At last but not least the volunteers will get a glimpse of traditional farming and among other things get the unique opportunity to experience and take part in the annual rounding up of the sheep.

We will have the chance to participate in “Réttir” (the annual sheep round-up in the area). Réttir is one of the most beautiful Icelandic traditions. The annual round-up of sheep and horses is very popular and people come from the city and to take part in the activities. Réttir is a tradition which goes back a thousand years to the Viking settlement.

While we help to preserve the local environment, we will explore the surroundings of the location and enjoy free time activities arranged in cooperation with the local host, such as hiking and discovering some breathtaking natural phenomenon.

ACCOMMODATION:

SEEDS volunteers will stay in small cottages, three sharing each, in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

The cottages are equipped with refrigerator and cooking facilities, but the host and volunteers will take turns in the cooking, expecting assistance from the volunteers. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.

LOCATION:

The farm is located in an environment of striking natural beauty and extreme contrasts, with spectacular views all around. It is surrounded by glaciers, lava fields, sandy deserts and green hills and meadows. There are many places of interest (popular tourist attractions) in the immediate neighbourhood and many remarkable geological features.

Natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and sudden floods from beneath the glaciers have through the centuries shaped the nature and society of the region. The population here has often been reminded of the merciless forces of nature and been confronted with dramatic consequences of volcanic eruptions. Most recently in May 2011 when the whole area was covered in ashes from an eruption in the Vatnajökull glacier.

The local economy here is based on agriculture and animal husbandry, but tourism is a rapidly growing sector. More and more farmers press their luck in the sector making it possible for travellers from all over the world to enjoy the countless attractions in the area.

Just a stone’s throw away from the farm there is a centre of commerce, where you’ll find a superb new geothermal swimming pool and good sporting facilities

LANGUAGE:

English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.

TERMINAL:

Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for some of the most beautiful, interesting and tourist sites in Iceland.

EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS:

Participation fee EUR 180 (Euros).

Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural Iceland.  Hikes and free time activities in the area will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers.

Age: 18+