Faroe Islands · Things to do
4 places in the Faroe Islands that look unreal
The Faroe Islands are 18 islands in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Norway, self-governing within the Kingdom of Denmark. Four places show why people go: the Gásadalur waterfall that falls into the sea, Tjørnuvík's black sand beach, the peak of Villingadalsfjall, and the green valleys of Sandoy. A rental car reaches all four.
What to do, in order
- 1
Gásadalur
Gásadalur is a tiny village on the island of Vágar, close to the airport. Beside it, the Múlafossur waterfall drops off the cliff straight into the Atlantic, the best-known view in the islands. Until a tunnel was cut through the mountain in 2004, the village could only be reached on foot over the mountain or by sea. The viewpoint is a short walk from the car park. Go early or late in the day, when the light is low and the path is quieter.
- 2
Tjørnuvík
Tjørnuvík is a village at the end of the road on the north coast of Streymoy, the largest island. It has a black sand beach in a deep bay, popular with surfers, and a view across the water to the sea stacks Risin and Kellingin, known in legend as the giant and the witch. Geologists expect Kellingin to collapse into the sea one day. The drive in is narrow and steep, so take it slowly and allow time to stop at the viewpoints on the way.
- 3
Villingadalsfjall
Villingadalsfjall, on the island of Viðoy, is the northernmost peak in the Faroes, at 841 metres. The hike starts in the village of Viðareiði and climbs steeply, with views over the northern islands and the open ocean. It is a demanding walk on steep grass and rock, best done in dry weather with good boots. Low cloud can roll in fast, so check the forecast and turn back if the summit disappears. Some trails in the islands cross private land and charge a fee.
- 4
Sandoy
Sandoy, the sand island, has green valleys, small villages and some of the only sand dunes in the Faroes. Since December 2023 it has been linked to Streymoy by a 10.8 kilometre undersea tunnel, which replaced the ferry and made it an easy day trip from Tórshavn. The tunnel is a toll road. Sandoy is much quieter than the islands most visitors see, which makes it good for walking, birdwatching and a slower pace.
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Plan it
- Best time
- June to August is the mildest season, with very long days and the best hiking weather. Winter is dark, wet and windy, though it can bring northern lights.
- How long
- Four to five days covers the main islands by car. A week allows for bad-weather days.
- Getting around
- Rent a car. Undersea tunnels and bridges link most of the main islands, and some tunnels charge a toll. Buses and ferries reach the rest.
Good to know
- Pack waterproofs and layers: the weather changes by the hour.
- Several popular hikes cross farmland and charge a fee; book or pay at the trailhead.
- Fill up on fuel and food in Tórshavn before driving to the remote villages.
Frequently asked
Are the Faroe Islands part of Denmark? +
They are a self-governing nation within the Kingdom of Denmark, with their own parliament, language and flag. Denmark handles defence and foreign affairs. The islands are not part of the European Union.
How do you get to the Faroe Islands? +
Fly to Vágar airport, mainly from Copenhagen, with seasonal routes from other European cities. A ferry also runs from Denmark via Iceland, taking about two days.
Do you need a car in the Faroe Islands? +
It is strongly recommended. Public buses and ferries exist, but a car makes it far easier to reach waterfalls, viewpoints and trailheads, which are spread across many islands.
When is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands? +
June to August, for the mildest weather and nearly 20 hours of daylight around midsummer. Spring and early autumn are quieter. Winter is dark and stormy but offers a chance of northern lights.