Azores Adventure

Over 50 pupils embarked on an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the Azores.

On the first day of the summer holidays, over fifty Year 8 and 9 explorers set off for a week-long adventure in the Atlantic archipelago of volcanic islands. Split into three groups, the girls undertook training sessions before departure, led by Adventure Lifesigns, to develop team-working and leadership skills. Their action-packed itineraries included trekking, camping, whale watching, yoga, cultural trips and wild swimming amid unspoilt landscapes.

The first few days were spent walking through dramatic UNESCO world heritage vineyards under sunny skies, taking dips in natural pools surrounded by lava rocks, sampling Portuguese cuisine, and venturing on a boat trip to spot bottlenose dolphins and sperm whales at close quarters. What the groups weren’t prepared for, however, was the arrival of some unseasonably challenging and inclement weather – including strong winds and heavy rain – whilst camping and attempting the ascent of Mt Pico, Portugal’s highest summit.

Girls and staff alike showed tremendous fortitude and adaptability as their campsites flooded on day 4, forcing them to find shelter, with one group taken to the safety of a fire station by ambulance! Spirits remained high throughout, however, and the girls created many memories to last a lifetime.

“I really grew as a person individually, and learned a lot from being part of a team.”

“We learned essential life skills like budgeting and cooking.”

“It was the best trip ever – albeit a bit wet!”