23 Things to Do in the Faroe Islands: Hidden Gems for 2025

The Faroe Islands boast a unique distinction – sheep outnumber humans by almost 2 to 1. Around 80,000 sheep freely roam these islands alongside just 50,000 residents, making this one of Europe’s most sparsely populated areas.

These 18 magnificent islands sit halfway between Norway and Iceland and offer countless adventures. Visitors can chase the 140-meter-tall twin cascades of Fossa Waterfall or hike to Lake Sørvagsvatn’s famous optical illusion. The Atlantic puffins on Mykines Island provide another unique experience in this untouched paradise.

The Faroe Islands’ distinct identity shines through despite their Danish sovereignty. Their Viking heritage and ever-changing weather add an air of mystery to these remarkable islands. Our thorough exploration revealed 23 memorable experiences that explain why tourist numbers have doubled over the last several years.

Hike to Mulafossur Waterfall

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Múlafossur Waterfall cascades 30 meters into the North Atlantic Ocean from its majestic perch on Vágar Island. The charming village of Gásadalur provides a perfect frame for this dramatic waterfall, making it one of the Faroe Islands’ most stunning attractions.

Mulafossur Waterfall Best Photo Spots

A short 5-minute walk from the parking area leads to the prime viewpoint. The fenced lookout point offers the most impressive shots with the waterfall perfectly framed against the Atlantic Ocean’s backdrop. The waterfall looks magical at sunset with a golden glow, especially when the weather conditions are just right.

Mulafossur Waterfall Hiking Trail Details

The Postman’s Trail presents an authentic way to experience the waterfall. This moderate 5-mile trek from Bøur takes about 4 hours and 56 minutes. The path meanders through historic routes and passes the “Corpse’s Stone” (Líksteinurin), a traditional resting spot where pallbearers would pause while carrying coffins across the mountains.

Mulafossur Waterfall Local Tips

Steep terrain and strong winds can make the area around the waterfall dangerous. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, particularly on the uneven steps leading to the shoreline viewpoint. Gasadalsgardur Cafe welcomes visitors daily from 11 am to 4 pm during peak season, offering a welcome break spot. Múlafossur Cottages, located next to the waterfall’s feeding stream, provide a great overnight option.

Explore Lake Sørvágsvatn

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Lake Sørvágsvatn, the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, covers 3.4 square kilometers of Vágar Island. This remarkable water body creates one of nature’s most fascinating optical illusions.

Lake Sørvágsvatn Optical Illusion Viewpoint

The lake creates a magical sight from the Trælanípa cliff viewpoint – it seems to float hundreds of meters above the North Atlantic Ocean. The reality is quite different. The lake sits just 30 meters above sea level. The sea cliffs on both sides reach heights of 252 and 376 meters, which creates this stunning visual effect.

Lake Sørvágsvatn Hiking Routes

A well-marked path starts from the parking area near Miðvágur and runs alongside the lake. Hikers can complete this moderately challenging 4.8-mile round trip in about 1 hour and 54 minutes. The trail crosses several small streams and can get muddy at times. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots will serve you best on this adventure.

Lake Sørvágsvatn Photography Tips

The iconic optical illusion looks best when captured from Trælanípa cliff during golden hours – just after sunrise or before sunset. A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) works best to capture both the lake and surrounding cliffs in one frame. Try different heights and angles to showcase the lake’s dramatic floating effect. Rocks or grass in the foreground can add depth to your shots naturally.

Visit Gjógv Village

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Gjógv stands out as one of the most charming villages in the Faroe Islands. The village gets its name from a distinctive 200-meter-long sea-filled gorge that works as a natural harbor.

Gjógv Village Natural Harbor

Black basalt walls frame the village’s natural harbor, creating a spectacular sight where locals pull their boats up on a ramp to shield them from the surf. Wooden stairs descend to the gorge where visitors can watch seabirds nest in the opposing rock walls. Winter brings an amazing display as white foam fills the harbor area when waves slam against the basalt walls.

Gjógv Village Cultural Experiences

The village showcases its rich heritage through its colorful houses in traditional red, white, and green. Built in 1929, the village church made history as the first to hold services in Faroese. Near the church, a touching sculpture by Fritjof Joensen shows a mother and two children looking out to sea. This artwork honors the memory of fishermen lost at sea.

Gjógv Village Accommodation Options

Gjáargarður Guesthouse is the main place to stay, with:

• Comfortable rooms that look out over the village
• High-quality dining that features local seafood
• Continental breakfast service

Outdoor enthusiasts can use a well-equipped campsite in the village. A local grocery store stocks all the basics you might need. Visitors can pick between staying cozy indoors or having a genuine outdoor adventure in this remote northern settlement.

Take a Boat Tour to Vestmanna Bird Cliffs

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The Vestmanna Bird Cliffs stand as one of the most breathtaking sights in the Faroe Islands. These magnificent cliffs stretch 5 kilometers along Streymoy Island’s coastline. Their sea stacks tower higher than the Empire State Building and create a stunning backdrop that wildlife enthusiasts love.

Vestmanna Bird Cliffs Wildlife Spotting

The cliffs come alive during summer as countless bird species make their home here. You’ll find puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and fulmars nesting safely on the narrow ledges of these 700-meter-high cliffs. Visitors can spot puffin groups floating on the water while skuas and kittiwakes glide overhead.

Vestmanna Bird Cliffs Tour Options

Boat tours run from April through October with several daily options:

• A classic 1.5-hour sea cliff expedition
• An enriching 6-hour tour that combines cliff views and Viking village visits
• A detailed 7.5-hour Streymoy Island day tour

Your experience starts at Vestmanna village, and it takes just 30 minutes to reach these towering cliffs. Weather conditions permitting, boats will guide you through natural grottos and caves shaped by centuries of waves.

Vestmanna Bird Cliffs Photography Tips

A 400mm lens will help you capture wildlife shots, though photographers often wish they had even more reach. The captain’s skilled positioning during this two-hour experience gives you clear views. Each boat holds about 20 passengers, and grabbing an edge spot will give you the best photography opportunities.

Discover Tinganes Historic District

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Tinganes sits between two harbors in Tórshavn and ranks among the world’s oldest parliamentary meeting spots. Red-painted buildings with grass-covered roofs dot this historic peninsula that now serves as the Faroese government’s center.

Tinganes District Architecture

The district boasts a collection of 17th and 18th-century structures that remain beautifully preserved. These buildings now host government offices, with the Prime Minister’s Office and several ministries calling it home. The key architectural features include:

• Stokkastovan (The Log Building), built after the 1673 fire
• Leigubúðin (The Royal Rent Collection Store), made of timber on a walled basement
• Munkastovan (The Monk’s Dwelling), with its medieval stone and lime-mortar walls

Tinganes District History

Viking chiefs chose this peninsula to set up their first parliament back in 900 AD. Notwithstanding that, a massive fire in 1673 burned down many original trading houses. The Ting (parliament) met at Tinganes until 1816 and ended up starting again in 1852 in a new building.

Tinganes District Guided Tours

Group tours cost 1900 DKK whatever the size and are a great way to get knowledge about this political and commercial hub. As with the building tours, visitors learn about centuries of political conflicts and romantic stories. Guides share each building’s story, but people can also walk around on their own since there’s no armed security.

Climb Slættaratindur Mountain

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Slættaratindur, the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands, rises 880 meters above sea level. This impressive peak gets its name “flat summit” and draws hikers with trails that are both challenging and available.

Slættaratindur Mountain Trail Guide

The simplest route starts from Eiðisskarð mountain pass between Eiði and Funningur villages. We started from the parking area at Eiðisskarð which cuts the climb in half, leaving just 500 meters to gain in elevation. Most hikers complete this experience in two hours or less, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Slættaratindur Mountain Summit Views

The summit gives hikers amazing panoramic views of all 18 Faroe Islands on clear days. The northern summit’s views showcase the sea stacks, Risin & Kellingin. People gather at the peak on June 21st, the year’s longest day, to see the sunset and sunrise. They celebrate with traditional chain dancing and authentic Faroese refreshments.

Slættaratindur Mountain Safety Tips

Simple safety measures are vital for a soaring win. Here are key precautions:

• Watch for icy surfaces from November to April
• Bring extra warm clothing and a hat to block wind
• Stay alert for unexpected mist, especially when you have summer conditions
• Carry water and snacks to keep energy levels up

You don’t need technical climbing skills, but the mountain just needs respect. The path gets gravelly near the top, so watch your step. Hikers who want extra security can book a local mountaineer guide. These guides are a great way to get safety tips and learn about this iconic Faroese landmark.

Experience Kallur Lighthouse Trek

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The red and white Kallur Lighthouse stands on Kalsoy Island’s northernmost tip since 1927. Its dramatic location offers some of the most striking views in the Faroe Islands.

Kallur Lighthouse Trail Description

The trek starts from Trøllanes village and follows a well-marked path that covers 4.8 kilometers round-trip. The trail takes about 35-45 minutes each way through grassy terrain where sheep roam freely. The original section has a steep climb that levels out into sheep paths leading to the lighthouse. Hikers should note these important details:

• Trail fee: 200 DKK for adults, 100 DKK for children aged 13-17 (free for under 13)
• Opening hours: Monday-Friday (9 AM-6 PM), Saturday (9 AM-5 PM), Sunday (11 AM-5 PM)
• Muddy conditions require sturdy hiking boots

Kallur Lighthouse Photo Opportunities

The summit shows three distinct viewpoints that spread out from the lighthouse. Photographers can capture panoramic shots of Eysturoy and Streymoy islands to the west and the iconic Risin & Kellingin rock formations. A narrow ridge path extends beyond the lighthouse and provides the most dramatic vantage point, where Mount Borgarin’s sheer cliffs tower over the lighthouse.

Kallur Lighthouse Access Information

The trailhead is accessible by taking a ferry from Klaksvík to Syðradalur, followed by a 16-kilometer drive through four tunnels to Trøllanes. Visitors without vehicles can take bus service #506 from the ferry terminal to Trøllanes. The whole ordeal, including ferry waiting times and hiking, usually takes 7-8 hours.

Visit Saksun Village

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A natural amphitheater above a tidal lagoon cradles the remote village of Saksun, where dramatic landscapes and rich heritage fascinate visitors. This secluded settlement has just 11 residents as of 2023 and ranks among the most fascinating experiences in the Faroe Islands.

Saksun Village Church

The story behind the pristine white church with its distinctive turf roof shows remarkable determination. We dismantled the entire structure from Tjørnuvík, carried it piece by piece over mountains, and rebuilt it at its current spot in 1858. The church stands as proof of Faroese villagers’ resourcefulness.

Saksun Village Lagoon Walks

A fierce storm blocked the village’s natural harbor with sand, which created a mesmerizing lagoon. Visitors can walk along the sandy shoreline around the headland during low tide. Seawater fills the lagoon twice each day, creating an ever-changing view that attracts photographers and nature lovers.

Saksun Village Cultural Sites

Dúvugarðar stands as the crown jewel of Saksun’s cultural heritage – an active sheep farm that serves as a museum. This seventeenth-century farmhouse features:

• A thriving flock of about 710 ewes
• Original buildings that are 200 years old
• A preserved authentic 17th-century farmhouse

The farm ended up continuing its traditional operations while giving visitors insight into authentic Faroese rural life. The designated walking paths let travelers experience the village’s timeless charm without disrupting daily farm activities.

Explore Mykines Island

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Mykines Island becomes a vibrant wildlife sanctuary each summer with hundreds of thousands of Atlantic Puffins, despite having just 12 permanent residents. This westernmost island of the Faroe archipelago is one of the most popular attractions in warmer months.

Mykines Island Puffin Watching

From May to August, the island hosts about 125,000 pairs of Atlantic Puffins. These charismatic birds prefer the southern coast and build their burrows in clifftops instead of traditional nests. Note that you should stay at least 2 meters away from the puffins and never block their path to nests, especially when they carry fish in their beaks.

Mykines Island Hiking Trails

The main trail covers 4.5 miles with a 1,318-foot elevation gain. The path begins in the village and winds through grassy terrain to spectacular viewpoints. Your journey to ‘á Rógvu’ reveals the largest puffin colony and lets you spot gannets that nest only on Mykines. The hiking fee is 400 DKK with advance booking, while on-site payment costs 500 DKK.

Mykines Island Transportation

You have two ways to reach Mykines:

• The ferry from Sørvágur takes 45 minutes and costs 6-8 USD, with three daily departures at 9:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 5:15 PM in summer
• The helicopter service runs three times weekly (Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays), taking just 11 minutes and costing 145 DKK

The island ends up being cut off during winter months as crossings become wild and unpredictable, sometimes isolating Mykines for weeks.

Tour Kirkjubøur Historical Site

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Kirkjubøur sits on Streymoy’s southwestern coast and stands as the most important historical site in the Faroe Islands. This medieval village was once the episcopal center that served as the spiritual heart of Faroese society.

Kirkjubøur Medieval Ruins

Three remarkable structures have stood the test of time in this village. The Magnus Cathedral from around 1300 still stands partially preserved but never got its roof. St. Olav’s Church, built in 1111, still serves as a parish church and remains the oldest working church in the Faroe Islands. The Kirkjubøargarður farmhouse is the most remarkable of all. This 900-year-old structure is one of the oldest inhabited wooden houses in the world.

Kirkjubøur Cultural Significance

The village reached its peak importance during medieval times with about 50 houses. A fierce storm in 1602 changed everything. It washed away many structures and created the islet Kirkjubøhólmurin. The Kirkjubøargarður farmhouse’s timber came from Norway, and the same family has owned it for 17 generations.

Kirkjubøur Visitor Information

Visitors can explore the medieval sections of Kirkjubøargarður every day during summer. The Patursson family still lives in the farmhouse museum, which helps people learn about centuries of Faroese history. The village’s location gives beautiful views of the islands of Hestur and Koltur. This makes it a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience the Faroe Islands’ rich heritage.

Stay in Traditional Turf Houses

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Traditional turf houses blend naturally into the rolling hills of the Faroese landscape and give visitors a chance to experience living history. These distinctive dwellings have thick stone foundations and grass-covered roofs that serve as both historical landmarks and unique places to stay.

Turf House Accommodation Options

Modern turf houses combine traditional architecture with today’s comforts. The Saksun turf house gives you panoramic views and has:

• Fully equipped kitchen with oven and coffee machine
• Free WiFi and private parking
• Outdoor dining area and fireplace
• Family-friendly rooms with heating

Turf House Historical Significance

Vikings built these turf houses as a practical solution to the islands’ limited timber resources. They laid turf in a herringbone pattern over wooden frames, creating walls up to one meter thick. These structures provided excellent insulation against harsh weather, which explains why people continued to use them for centuries.

Turf House Booking Tips

You should book well in advance, especially during peak season. The traditional old house in Miðvágur sits just 10 minutes from the airport and has easy access to supermarkets and restaurants. The Saksun turf house offers a more remote setting with mountain views. These accommodations usually house 4-6 guests, and you can request extra bedding if needed.

Try Faroese Food Tasting

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The Faroese culinary landscape has been shaped by fermentation, a preservation method that has created the islands’ distinctive flavors for over a thousand years.

Traditional Faroese Dishes

Ræst, a unique fermentation process where meat and fish naturally salt through oceanic winds, is the life-blood of Faroese cuisine. The process takes nine months for lamb and creates a texture similar to Bayonne ham. The traditional diet includes seasonal fish, organic lamb, and hardy root vegetables that develop intense flavors in the harsh climate.

Best Local Restaurants

Restaurant Ræst in Tórshavn showcases fermented dishes from a centuries-old wooden house. The Barbara Fish House serves exceptional seafood dishes from one of the city’s oldest buildings. Áarstova’s signature 12-hour slow-roasted lamb brings traditional flavors to life in a historic setting.

Food Tour Options

The authentic heimablídni (home hospitality) experience is the quickest way to taste Faroese cuisine. Local hosts provide:

• Family recipes in traditional three-course meals
• Stories and conversations about island life
• Easy booking through eatlocal.fo platform

Anna and Oli’s farm creates an exceptional experience with mutton sausage, fermented fish, and caramelized potatoes paired with local beer. These dining experiences are a great way to learn about Faroese culture and traditions.

Visit Nólsoy Island

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Nólsoy lies just a 20-minute ferry ride from Tórshavn. The island has over 800 sheep that roam freely among its 200 residents. You’ll find the world’s largest European storm petrel colony here, with about 50,000 pairs nesting along the eastern coast.

Nólsoy Island Hiking Trails

The marked trail to Borðan lighthouse is the island’s main hiking route. This round-trip takes 9-11 hours to complete and covers 16 kilometers. Hikers can spot puffins nesting along the cliffs from early May to August as the path weaves through lush meadows.

Nólsoy Island Village Life

The village museum sits in the historic dwelling við Brunn and showcases 300 years of island heritage. The building’s eastern section tells an amazing story – it was built in 1828 from a single Pomeranian pine log. The museum’s collection displays artifacts that tell the house’s history, village life, and global connections across three centuries.

Nólsoy Island Ferry Information

The ferry M/F Teistin runs multiple daily trips between Tórshavn and Nólsoy. The schedule runs:

• First departure from Tórshavn at 06:45 on weekdays
• Regular services until 22:00 daily
• Special holiday schedules with modified timings

Adults pay 40 DKK while students pay 30 DKK, and return trips are free. Cars can board the ferry, but you’ll get more out of the island by exploring it on foot.

Explore Tórshavn Old Town

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A walk through the narrow cobblestone streets of Tórshavn’s old town shows centuries of maritime heritage in wood and stone. The historic quarter has two distinct neighborhoods: Reyn and Undir Ryggi, which date back to the 14th century.

Tórshavn Old Town Architecture

Black-tarred wooden houses with white-framed windows and grass-covered roofs dominate the district. These traditional homes still house families and serve as living museums. The builders used time-tested construction techniques. The grass roofs have protected these homes from rain and provided natural insulation and soundproofing for hundreds of years.

Tórshavn Old Town Shopping

The city center buzzes with shops of all types. Handilsgøtan, the main shopping street, features:

• Local designer boutiques selling Faroese knitwear
• Music shops and bookstores
• Artisanal glassware and pottery studios
• Traditional wool stores

SMS, the Faroe Islands’ largest shopping mall, complements these boutiques with international brands, electronics stores, and places to eat.

Tórshavn Old Town Restaurants

The local food scene offers some remarkable dining spots. Barbara Fish House, one of the city’s oldest buildings, serves fresh seafood and local delicacies. Ræst brings innovative Faroese cuisine to life with its focus on fermented dishes. The historic Áarstova stands out with its delicious lamb dishes served in a charming traditional setting.

Take a Helicopter Ride

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The Faroese government makes aerial exploration affordable by subsidizing helicopter services throughout the islands.

Helicopter Route Options

Atlantic Airways connects 11 destinations with scheduled flights throughout the archipelago. The service mainly focuses on remote islands, operating on Wednesdays and Fridays all year. Summer months from June through August offer extra Monday flights. Travelers can enjoy a special 20-minute sightseeing route over Vágar Island that showcases Lake Fjallavatn, Víkar, and Bøssdalafossur waterfall. This scenic flight costs 1,500 DKK per person.

Helicopter Booking Process

Passengers can book their flights seven days before departure, while Froðba routes allow bookings two days ahead. Important booking rules state that:

• Luggage must not exceed 20 kg
• Passengers should check in 30 minutes before takeoff
• Tickets work one-way only, with no return booking options

Helicopter Photography Tips

Clear aerial shots demand specific camera settings and techniques. A zoom lens with 24-70mm focal length works best for panoramic views. Photographers should set their shutter speed between 1/500 to 1/1000 seconds to curb vibration and movement. The best shots come when you remove lens hoods to avoid damage, keep extra batteries handy, and think about using a polarizing filter to reduce glass reflections.

Visit Kalsoy Island

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Kalsoy Island stretches 18 kilometers with dramatic black basalt walls and lush green slopes. This narrow isle is a hidden gem among the Faroe Islands. Only 80 residents call this place home, living across four small settlements.

Kalsoy Island Seal Woman Statue

The village of Mikladalur features the remarkable Kópakonan statue that stands 2.5 meters tall. Hans Pauli Olsen created this bronze and stainless steel masterpiece in 2014. The statue shows a naked woman removing her seal skin while looking at a small waterfall. Its robust engineering lets it stand strong against waves reaching 13 meters high.

Kalsoy Island Hiking Options

The island’s terrain provides excellent hiking paths that connect four villages through tunnels. Sheep wander freely along these trails that wind through charming settlements. Hikers can enjoy spectacular views of:

• The dark blue sea
• Mountain vistas
• Traditional village buildings

Kalsoy Island Transportation

Visitors can take the ferry from Klaksvík that carries 120 passengers and 12 vehicles each trip. Bus route 506 serves all island villages and coordinates with ferry arrivals. The route includes four one-lane tunnels that cover 16.6 kilometers. Local authorities suggest leaving cars at the ferry port’s free parking area.

Experience Local Farm Life

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The Faroese people have a deep connection to sheep farming. Their age-old traditions now blend perfectly with modern hospitality. Visitors can experience authentic farm life at the Selatrað sheep farm through guided tours and hands-on activities.

Farm Stay Options

Harriet Olafsdóttir, a fifth-generation sheep farmer, runs the charming Hanusarstova farmhouse. This 125-year-old property lets guests enjoy homegrown potatoes, herbs, and fresh eggs from the backyard chicken coop. Farms of all sizes throughout the islands welcome overnight guests, who can experience the daily rhythm of farm life firsthand.

Farm Activities

Life at Selatrað gives visitors a chance to try real farm tasks and learn about local traditions. Guests can join in:

• Traditional sheep feeding demonstrations
• Local story sharing sessions
• Homemade cuisine tasting
• Guided village walks

These farms stay true to their roots while giving visitors a glimpse into real Faroese rural life. The Hanusarstova farm takes care of about 70 ewes and their lambs, keeping alive the practices passed down through generations.

Farm Visit Booking

Booking a farm experience is simple through dedicated platforms. The classic Home Hospitality program at Selatrað gives you two choices: a dining experience with farm-fresh food or a guided walk with traditional refreshments. These visits are more than just a place to stay – they’re a chance to share meals and stories with farming families who call these beautiful islands home.

Go Sea Kayaking

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Kayaking in the Faroe Islands shows views you can’t get from land. The dramatic cliffs and hidden coves along the coastline create a magical playground for paddlers.

Kayaking Routes

The islands offer routes that suit different skill levels. Lake Sørvágsvatn’s route takes you on a 3-hour adventure above the ocean. Evening kayaking from Hósvík lets you spot dolphins and seabirds in their natural habitat. The Suðuroy Island course takes you through some of the most dramatic seascapes in just 2 hours.

Kayaking Tour Operators

Kajakk.fo runs its operations from Hósvík and stands out with its expert-guided tours. They offer:

• Guided tours with certified instructors
• Equipment rental and safety briefings
• Customized group expeditions
• Photography-focused excursions

Kayaking Safety Guidelines

Weather changes faster in the Faroe Islands, so safety comes first. Tour operators give you detailed safety equipment and keep a close eye on weather patterns. Expert paddlers should carry essential safety gear like waterproof communication devices and proper clothing. Mid-summer brings the best paddling conditions with calm seas and clear visibility.

Hike to Fossá Waterfall

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Fossá Waterfall cascades magnificently in two tiers. This natural wonder stands as the tallest waterfall in the Faroe Islands and reaches 140 meters in height.

Fossá Waterfall Trail Guide

A designated parking area marks the beginning of your experience. The trail starts 150 meters ahead through a mountain opening. The path remains available throughout the year and curves upward to the upper section. Here, visitors discover a wider and taller cascade that stays hidden from the base. Stone tables and benches near the waterfall create perfect spots to rest and enjoy refreshments.

Fossá Waterfall Viewpoints

Nature enthusiasts and photographers can capture the waterfall’s beauty from several spots:

• Main road viewpoint provides quick access
• Lower cascade area lets you get up close
• Upper section platform shows panoramic views
• Island of Eysturoy offers a distant view from 1km away, though it needs a 12km drive

Fossá Waterfall Seasonal Tips

The waterfall’s character changes with each season. Heavy rainfall transforms its width from a few meters to an impressive 30 meters. Overcast and rainy days create excellent conditions for long-exposure photography. Photographers should bring microfiber cloths to keep their lenses dry. The bridge at the bottom serves as a stable platform for long-exposure shots.

Visit Kunoy Island

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Kunoy Island stretches beautifully through the northern Faroe archipelago. This long, narrow island supports just two settlements nestled within its mountainous terrain.

Kunoy Island Highlights

Viðarlundin í Kunoy (The Forest of Kunoy) stands as a rare wooded sanctuary in the typically barren Faroese landscape. The Kunoy Church’s bright red exterior creates a beautiful contrast with the green countryside. The island’s dramatic terrain features steep mountain slopes that alternate with round valleys. These natural formations create half-bowl scoops decorated with white cascading waterfalls.

Kunoy Island Activities

The forest trail attracts nature lovers who enjoy the shade from ash, birch, and spruce trees. Hikers can challenge themselves on the path leading to Skarðsgjógv gorge. Photographers love capturing:

• Kalsoy Island across Kalsoyarfjørður fjord
• The filming location of James Bond’s “No Time to Die”
• Networks of beautiful streams cascading down cliffs
• Traditional Faroese houses dotting the landscape

Kunoy Island Access

Visitors can reach the island by crossing an embankment from Bordoy to Haraldssund. A well-maintained road connects Tórshavn to the island through tunnels, bridges, and an undersea passage. The final stretch features a narrow 3-kilometer tunnel that connects Haraldssund to Kunoy village. This tunnel measures just 3.5 meters wide and includes lay-bys for passing oncoming traffic.

Explore Sandoy Island

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Sandoy, the fifth largest island in the Faroe archipelago, engages visitors with its unique sandy landscapes. The island has 1,200 residents and 7,000 sheep roaming its terrain.

Sandoy Island Beaches

Sandoy’s coastline differs from the archipelago’s typical rocky shores with its sand dunes – the only ones in the Faroe Islands. Sandur beach dominates the island’s coastline and sits next to Lake Sandsvatn, the Faroe Islands’ third-largest lake. The dynamic shoreline changes with each tide and offers several activities:

• Surfing at Húsavík beach
• Shell collecting at Dalur beach
• Kayaking on Lake Sandsvatn
• Family-friendly swimming at Skopun

Sandoy Island Villages

Visitors can drive from Skopun to Dalur in under 30 minutes while discovering charming settlements on their route. Húsavík stands out as one of the Faroe Islands’ oldest settlements. The yarn-covered rock attracts curious visitors – a massive boulder that local women covered with knitted fabric.

Sandoy Island Transportation

Reaching Sandoy needs some planning ahead. The ferry service takes vehicles, but peak seasons require advance bookings. A new subsea tunnel connecting Streymoy and Sandoy opened on December 21, 2023, offering an additional travel option. Local guides suggest taking hosted hiking tours to ensure safety and get cultural insights.

Try Traditional Crafts

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Generations of skilled artisans keep the Faroe Islands’ rich textile heritage alive by preserving traditional crafting techniques. Their cultural legacy reflects the rugged landscapes through intricate patterns and time-honored methods.

Wool Knitting Workshops

Traditional bindiklubbur (knitting clubs) welcome visitors into local homes for authentic craft sessions. These three-hour evening workshops give you:

• Traditional knitting technique instruction
• Local yarn from Faroese sheep
• Authentic snacks and refreshments
• Take-home gift bundle with quality yarn and needles

Local Craft Shops

Piddasahandil og Ribarhús sits nestled in Fuglafjørður and showcases exceptional hand-knit sweaters and local artworks. The shop’s collection also features paintings and textiles that capture the island’s landscapes. Visitors might find the famous ‘Sarah Lund jumper’ made from 100% Faroese wool, which gained worldwide recognition through the Danish TV series “The Killing”.

Craft Making Classes

Craft enthusiasts can learn a variety of traditional skills beyond knitting. Classes teach sewing, glass beadwork, and ceramics. STEINUM brand, launched in 2010, runs workshops that feature brightly colored wool fiber patterns. Shisa Brand adds to these options with eco-friendly craft experiences that focus on locally produced and processed wool. These sessions blend technical skills with cultural preservation, helping ancient traditions flourish in modern times.

Visit Local Breweries

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The Faroe Islands’ brewing story began in 1888 when Föroya Bjór opened its first facility. Today, they produce 20 different beers and pump out 2,000,000 liters every year.

Brewery Tour Options

The Ram Brewery Tour at Föroya Bjór takes you through 136 years of brewing heritage. Visitors can see how pure Faroese water blends with premium malts and hops in their production facilities. A typical tour has guided walks through the facility, beer tasting paired with salty snacks, lunch at Café Fríða, and time to browse the gift shop.

Beer Tasting Sessions

Each brewery brings its own distinct flavors to the table. Beer enthusiasts can look forward to the Mikkeller Beer Celebration on October 17-18, 2025. The event features four unique sessions over two days. The BeerWalk Tórshavn combines city exploration and beer tasting. Participants sample seven different beers from OY Brewing and Mikkeller during a 2.5-hour trip.

Brewery Visit Information

The beer scene grew when Okkara started crafting beers with local ingredients in 2006. OY Brewing, just two years old since 2021, runs both a brewery and taproom in Tórshavn. The nano-brewery Biskupskelda opened its doors in 2020 on Suðuroy island. They named their facility after an ancient bishops’ fountain, drawing inspiration from local folklore.

Comparison Table

Location	Main Attraction	Duration/Distance	Key Features	Access Info
Mulafossur Waterfall	30m waterfall into ocean	5-min walk from parking; 4h56m full trail	Sunset viewpoint, Postman’s Trail	Parking area available, Gasadalsgardur Cafe nearby
Lake Sørvágsvatn	Optical illusion lake view	4.8 miles (1h54m) round trip	Lake appears suspended above ocean, 30m above sea level	Starts near Miðvágur
Gjógv Village	200m natural sea gorge	N/A	Colorful houses, 1929 church, wooden stairs to gorge	N/A
Vestmanna Bird Cliffs	700m high sea cliffs	1.5-2 hour boat tour	Puffins, razorbills, guillemots nesting	Boats leave from Vestmanna village
Tinganes Historic District	Medieval parliament site	N/A	17th-18th century buildings, government offices	Guided tours offered (1900 DKK per group)
Slættaratindur Mountain	880m highest peak	2 hours or less	Views spanning all 18 islands	Begins at Eiðisskarð mountain pass
Kallur Lighthouse	Historic 1927 lighthouse	35-45 min each way	4.8km round trip, dramatic cliff views	Ferry from Klaksvík to Syðradalur
Saksun Village	Tidal lagoon setting	N/A	White church, Dúvugarðar museum farm	N/A
Mykines Island	Puffin colony	N/A	125,000 puffin pairs, lighthouse trek	Ferry from Sørvágur or helicopter service
Kirkjubøur	Medieval ruins	N/A	Magnus Cathedral, St. Olav’s Church, Kirkjubøargarður farmhouse	Summer access daily
Nólsoy Island	Storm petrel colony	9-11 hours (lighthouse trail)	50,000 bird pairs, village museum	20-min ferry from Tórshavn
Kalsoy Island	Kópakonan statue	N/A	Four tunnels, seal woman statue	Ferry from Klaksvík
Kunoy Island	Viðarlundin forest	N/A	Rare wooded area, red church	Via tunnel from Haraldssund
Sandoy Island	Sandy beaches	30 min drive across island	Sand dunes, Lake Sandsvatn	Ferry service or subsea tunnel
Fossá Waterfall	140m tallest waterfall	N/A	Two-tier cascade, multiple viewpoints	Parking area available

Conclusion

The Faroe Islands are a remarkable destination where ancient traditions naturally mix with wild nature. Our exploration of these 23 experiences showed dramatic waterfalls that plunge into the ocean, villages on cliff edges, and rare sandy beaches along the coastline.

Each island has its own distinct character. Mykines draws thousands of puffins every summer, and Sandoy amazes visitors with its unique dunes. The islands’ traditional turf houses and local craft workshops keep centuries-old customs alive, which makes every visit feel personal.

These scattered gems stay accessible despite their remote location. Travelers can use subsidized helicopter flights and reliable ferry services to move between islands, though weather adds an adventurous element to travel plans.

The islands reward people who accept their unpredictable nature. Visitors can watch waves crash against Gjógv’s natural harbor or taste fermented delicacies at local farms. Each experience adds to an enduring story about life at the edge of the North Atlantic.

The Faroe Islands have ended up as one of Europe’s last truly wild places. Sheep still outnumber people here, and ancient traditions thrive in modern times. These 23 experiences barely scratch the surface of what awaits adventurous travelers ready to explore this remarkable archipelago.