Every year, LAS seniors trade the Swiss mountain air for something altogether different—a journey into ancient history, vibrant culture, extraordinary food, and the kind of memories that last long after graduation. This year, students chose between two remarkable destinations: Athens (Greece) and Barcelona (Spain).

The Senior Cultural Trip holds a special place in the LAS calendar. Unlike the cultural trips that come before it, this one carries a sense of culmination — a capstone to years of shared experiences and adventures. Students were reminiscing about previous trips, including the beloved Puglia Cultural Trip from two years ago, a sign of just how deeply these experiences stay with them. Timed deliberately before the final rush of exams, packing, and graduation, the trip gives seniors one last chance to have fun and be fully present with their classmates before their lives get very busy indeed.

Athens, Greece

The group's first evening in Athens began with experiencing one of the world's most iconic views. Students made their way up to Lycabettus Hill—the highest point in Athens—to watch the sunset glow behind the Acropolis and across the sprawling city below. Many, many selfies were snapped!

The following day was a full immersion in 2,500 years of history! A guided tour took the group through Athens' most celebrated ancient sites, including the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The day also included visits to the Acropolis Museum, the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium, and free time to wander the old town and the Plaka neighborhood.

That evening, the group gathered for dinner at the Zafiro Experience—an authentic Greek-style restaurant offering traditional live music and local cuisine. Students dressed in traditional Greek clothing, danced, and even smashed plates! It was celebratory, and thoroughly Greek.

One of the most loved days of the trip was the ferry ride across the Saronic Gulf to the island of Aegina. Students visited the ancient Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of the Holy Trinity and Saint Nektarios, before enjoying free time in Aegina town for lunch, sightseeing, and the beach. Students commented how it was understandable why so many Athenians escape to this island at every opportunity.

Barcelona, Spain

The Barcelona group arrived to a group dinner together in the city centre—a relaxed first evening to soak up the energy and unmistakable atmosphere of this Mediterranean capital.

A full day followed in the world of Antoni Gaudí, with the Gaudí Experience Tour and an exploration of the fantastical Parc Güell, with its famous mosaics, terraces, and panoramic views across the city. Students also toured the breathtaking and fantastical Sagrada Familia. These enabled students to see in person how Gaudí shaped the unique design and spirit of Barcelona!

Other sightseeing highlights included Barcelona's aquarium and the historic Port Vell area, the Museum of the History of Catalunya, and the Olympic Stadium and Park on Montjuïc, as well as exploring the vibrant Mercat de la Boqueria.

One evening, the entire group attended a professional Flamenco show at the Theatre Flamenco, presented in partnership with Barcelona City Hall—a stunning performance right in the heart of the city!

Students also spent a full day at PortAventura World in Tarragona—one of Europe's best theme parks. It was a day of pure fun and well-earned thrills.

The trip closed with free time to explore Barcelona's enchanting Barri Gòtic, the medieval old quarter with its winding streets and hidden squares, followed by a final group dinner to celebrate the trip and each other.

Return to Fresh Alpine Air with Lifelong Memories

Our seniors returned to Leysin with broader perspectives, deeper friendships, and stories they'll be sharing for years to come. We treasure these opportunities to provide students experiences like these. It may be the last time they travel together as a class but the memories will remain vibrant throughout their lives.