PROJECT
Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field, which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers, and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas
grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means “hot springs garden”. Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeline and chances are you won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. Nearby you will find an even more geothermally active site: Gufudalur, the lovely “Steam Valley” behind the town. This whole valley is full of hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents.
Our host is a non-profit organization called the NLFI Rehabilitation and Health Clinic, which is a part of the Natural Health Association of Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy their diverse rehabilitation programs, which are focused on an approach that builds self-confidence and personal responsibility for the patients’ own health. The clinic has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for the personal and effective care of patients. It is one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. In the last years, this ongoing camp has been the most popular camp in our organization.
WORK
The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. Volunteers will help with growing tomatoes, cucumbers and making tea made of Icelandic
herbs, and also doing some environmental work around the property. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work, but also clothes for working inside the warm greenhouses. Working hours are
usually from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and volunteers will have a one-hour lunch break.
ACCOMMODATION
Volunteers will be staying in the house of Worldwide Friends in Hveragerði. The house is within the medical compound and has 6 double rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, several bathrooms, common areas, and workshop rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bags, but beds and sheets are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
There is an extra participation fee of 350 euros for this workcamp. The fee includes a minibus trip from the meeting point of the camp to Hveragerdi and the Golden Circle South Iceland excursion.