Faroe Islands: Hiking, Culture and Islands

Islands, villages and trails

The Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands in the North Atlantic. You can focus your trip planning on different things: hikes with information about duration or distance, villages by the open sea, birdlife and culture. This lets you consider what kind of landscape you would like to experience, how much time to allow for a hike and which traditions interest you. The following places and experiences offer practical guidance.

Kalsoy: Lighthouse and hike

At the northern tip of Kalsoy, the Kallurin Lighthouse stands in front of coastal cliffs. A 17-kilometre road with four tunnels connects the ferry terminal in Syðradalur with Trøllanes in the north of the island. The hike to Kallurin starts in Trøllanes. It is considered moderately difficult; the round trip is usually said to take one and a half to two hours. This is a guideline: duration and difficulty can vary depending on conditions. Road conditions can also change; check the latest information before setting off.

Hikes with different highlights

The Funningur–Eiði route is seven kilometres long, runs below the Faroe Islands’ highest peaks and offers scenic views. The Æðuvík–Nes hike passes through moorland and offers views of Skálafjørður and Nólsoy. The two routes have different highlights: the distance is specified for Funningur–Eiði, while the moorland and the views mentioned are the focus of Æðuvík–Nes. Visibility can vary. Hvannhagi is a hiking area with diverse birdlife; bird presence depends on the season and conditions.

Villages by the sea and on Eysturoy

Tjørnuvík is one of the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands and lies by the open sea. The village is suitable for surfing, although conditions and suitability can vary. Gjógv is the northernmost village on Eysturoy. The two places therefore offer different points of reference for your trip planning: Tjørnuvík combines historical context with a connection to surfing, while Gjógv provides geographical orientation through its location on the island.

Access, culture and experiences

Permission from the landowners is required for hikes in the infields and outfields at Drangarnir; the area may only be visited with a guide. Check the latest local guidance before your trip.

Ræst is a Faroese method of preserving meat and fish without salt. For travellers interested in food culture, this tradition offers a tangible point of connection and includes both foods. Faroese experiences in private homes may include shared meals featuring traditional homemade dishes. You may also be able to learn about local craft techniques. Which elements are offered depends on the specific experience; if interested, ask about current availability.

At the Saga Museum, you can follow the history of the Faroe Islands through 17 lifelike figures in a realistically designed setting, from the first settlers to more recent times. If you plan to visit the museum, check the latest opening information in advance.

Public transport

A multi-day public transport pass for the Faroe Islands is valid for bus and ferry journeys; Mykines is excluded. Check the latest terms and conditions before your trip if you plan to use such a pass.

Discover more destinations: Hvalba, Sandoy, Faroe Islands, Vágar, Streymoy, Klaksvík, Norðragøta, Trongisvágur, Eysturoy.

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