WANDERXPLORATION

Tucked away in the North Atlantic between Norway and Iceland, the Faroe Islands offer an experience unlike any other. This remote archipelago of 18 volcanic islands is a haven for those looking to escape the crowds and dive into nature’s raw beauty. Think jagged cliffs dropping into the sea, puffins fluttering overhead, and waterfalls cascading directly into the ocean. It’s not just the landscape that’s captivating, though. The Faroes are steeped in rich cultural traditions, from their distinctive wool products to village life that’s remained unchanged for centuries. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Faroe Islands are where wanderlust meets wilderness.

Getting to the Faroe Islands: From Nearby Countries and Beyond

Despite their remote location, getting to the Faroe Islands is easier than you might expect. Whether you’re traveling from Europe or further afield, the Faroe Islands are accessible by both air and sea.

By Air:

• From Copenhagen, Denmark: Copenhagen is the primary gateway to the Faroes. Atlantic Airways, the national airline, offers several direct flights a week from Copenhagen to Vágar Airport (the only airport in the Faroe Islands). The flight takes about two hours, making it the quickest route.
• From Reykjavik, Iceland: There are regular flights from Reykjavik to Vágar Airport. The flight is around 90 minutes, and it’s an ideal option if you’re combining a trip to Iceland with the Faroes.
• From Edinburgh, Scotland: Direct flights are available from Edinburgh, making it a convenient option for travelers from the UK. The flight takes about an hour and a half.
• From other European cities: There are also seasonal flights from several other cities, including Paris and Oslo. These vary depending on the time of year, so it’s worth checking schedules in advance.

By Sea:

• From Denmark: The Smyril Line ferry operates a route between Hirtshals, Denmark, and Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. This journey takes around 36 hours, but it’s a scenic way to approach the islands, passing through the dramatic North Atlantic waters.

Once on the islands, renting a car is the best way to explore, as public transport is limited outside the main towns. Many of the islands are connected by bridges and undersea tunnels, making travel between them easy.

Reasons to Visit the Faroe Islands

1. Unspoiled Nature: The Faroe Islands are one of the most pristine destinations in the world. With untouched landscapes, the islands are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
2. Adventure Activities: From cliff-side hikes to sea kayaking, the islands offer plenty of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.
3. Unique Wildlife: The islands are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with puffins, gannets, and other seabirds flocking here. Whale watching is also popular, as the waters around the Faroes are home to pilot whales, orcas, and dolphins.
4. Traditional Faroese Culture: Experience the Faroese way of life by visiting small villages, learning about the islands’ wool-making traditions, and tasting local delicacies like fermented lamb and fresh fish.
5. Seclusion and Tranquility: The Faroes’ isolation from the rest of the world creates a peaceful environment for travelers looking to escape the crowds. With limited tourists, you’ll often find yourself alone in the wild, soaking in the beauty of nature.

What to Do in the Faroe Islands: From Top Attractions to Hidden Gems

1. Tórshavn: The World’s Smallest Capital Start your journey in Tórshavn, the Faroe Islands’ capital and one of the smallest capitals in the world. Despite its size, Tórshavn is a charming city with colorful houses, cobbled streets, and a bustling harbor. Be sure to visit:

• Tinganes: The historic district with red wooden buildings, where the Faroese government is located. This area dates back to the Viking era.
• Skansin: A fortress built in the 16th century to defend against pirate raids. Climb to the top for views of the harbor and neighboring islands.
• Nordic House: A cultural center hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events showcasing Faroese art and culture.

2. Hiking and Outdoor Adventures The Faroe Islands are a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views. Some of the best hikes include:

• Sørvágsvatn Lake: Also known as Leitisvatn, this is the largest lake in the Faroes, perched atop cliffs overlooking the sea. The optical illusion created by the lake and the ocean is a must-see.
• Mykines Island: A popular spot for puffin watching and home to some of the most rugged, isolated landscapes in the Faroes. The hike to the Mykines lighthouse offers stunning views.
• Slættaratindur: The highest peak in the Faroes, this hike rewards climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

3. Múlafossur Waterfall One of the most iconic images of the Faroe Islands, Múlafossur is a waterfall that plunges directly into the sea. Located in the village of Gásadalur, the waterfall is easily accessible by car or on foot.

4. Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island Take the ferry to Kalsoy Island and hike to the Kallur Lighthouse. The path is relatively easy, and the views of the lighthouse perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff are some of the most scenic in the Faroes.

5. Saksun and Tjørnuvík These two picturesque villages on Streymoy Island offer a glimpse into traditional Faroese life. Saksun is known for its turf-roofed houses and peaceful lagoon, while Tjørnuvík is famous for its black sand beach and views of the giant sea stacks Risin and Kellingin.

6. Whale Watching The Faroe Islands have a long history of whaling, but today, the focus has shifted towards whale conservation and watching. Several tours offer the chance to see pilot whales, orcas, and dolphins in the wild.

Lesser-Known Gems of the Faroe Islands

While the main tourist attractions are breathtaking, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that are just as spectacular.

1. Viðareiði The northernmost village in the Faroe Islands, Viðareiði, is often overlooked by tourists. It’s a quiet, windswept place with dramatic coastal cliffs, ideal for those seeking solitude.

2. Gjógv This tiny village on Eysturoy Island is named after its natural harbor, a gorge that cuts into the cliffs. It’s a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying the peaceful Faroese countryside.

3. Kirkjubøur Kirkjubøur is home to the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral, the largest medieval building in the Faroe Islands. It’s also the location of the oldest inhabited wooden house in the world, Kirkjubøargarður.

4. Fossá Waterfall Less known than Múlafossur, Fossá is the highest waterfall in the Faroes and cascades down two levels. It’s located on Streymoy Island, just a short drive from Tórshavn.

5. Nolsoy A short ferry ride from Tórshavn, Nolsoy Island offers a slower pace of life, with small cafés, local crafts, and scenic walking paths. Climb to the top of the island for views of Tórshavn and the surrounding islands.