1. Home
  2. Destinations
  3. Faroe Islands’ Only…

Faroe Islands’ Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Faroe Islands’ Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Faroe Islands’ Background

Faroe Islands’ History

 

The Faroe Islands were so remote that even the Vikings didn’t settle there until the 9th century A.D, when advances in navigational technology made them accessible. However, archaeologists have found enough evidence to suggest that the Vikings were not the first settlers, though they have been unable to determine who they were. It is widely believed that they were Irish monks, but they could have been from Scandinavia, Scotland, or the Shetland Islands.

The Faroe Islands, known as ‘Islands of the Sheep and the Paradise of Birds’ got its name ‘Føroyar’ from the Vikings and it means ‘Sheep Islands’ in old Norse. In 1035, the Faroes became a province of Norway, and in 1380, they passed into Danish control. They became a Danish royal trade monopoly in 1709 when they were attached to the diocese of Zealand, which weakened economic growth. The Faroe Islands were under British rule during WWII, while Denmark was under German occupation. In 1948, the Danish government granted the islands autonomy, allowing them to adopt their own flag and currency (the krona) while remaining under Danish rule.

Faroe Islands lie between Iceland and the Shetland Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. A total of 17 Islands and several sleets and reefs make up the Faroe Islands which operates as a self-governing province of the Denmark. Streymoy, Eysturoy, Vágar, Suduroy, Sandoy, Bordoy, and Svnoy are the main islands. Tórshavn on Streymoy is the nation’s capital. There are many fjords in coastlines, and the water in the narrow channels between the islands is churned up by the strong tides.

Precipitation averages 60 inches per year due to the oceanic climate, which is mild with little temperature variation and frequent fog and rain. Despite that, it is ice-free due to the warm North Atlantic Current. Cool summers, strong westerly winds, and frequent gales make the islands treeless.

There are no native land mammals, toads, or reptiles; instead, hares, rats, and mice were brought over by ships of explorers. Seabirds like puffin and eider served important functions in the economy as food and feathers.

Only about a quarter of the population inhabits Tórshavn; almost all the rest are located in small sites along the coast. Faroese, which is most closely related to Icelandic, and Danish are the two official languages.

The Faroes is group of several Islands and reefs that are ancient yet also very modern. Multi-colored cottages and grass-roofed wooden churches filled with grandly stark, treeless moorlands. Islands are linked with road tunnels making them accessible, and no matter where you are, your phone won’t lose its signal. A paradise for both hikers and wildlife lovers, especially birders with its exceedingly chilly and unpredictable climate. Set foot into the perfectly mowned landscape dotted with sheep. Among the wildlife you will encounter are puffins, skuas, and fulmars, not to mention whales. Hikers will find the wavvy landscapes that plunge into cliffs and the diversity in the terrain a paradise worthy of their efforts, but be wary of the sudden strong winds and fogs.

 

“The Faroe Islands are home to the descendants of the Vikings, one of the world’s earliest civilizations, and are steeped in history and culture as well as stunning natural beauty. The country is a haven for those seeking exotic sceneries and adventure.”

 

From Streymoy, the biggest island group, with its capital, Tórshavn, as well as the dramatic scenery in Vestmanna, then Suðuroy and Skúvoy with their soul-stirring scenery and staggering heights. The people of the Faroe Islands are characterized by their ancient Viking blood, but also influenced by Christianity, as well as their long Scandinavian heritage creates a world of openness and relative warmth, despite the weather. Even though the islands are scarcely inhabited, it is so alive with vibrant art, and lively music which creates a delightful vibe for visitors.

The colourful and artful designs on Faroese plates often tell stories. When you arrive in the Faroe Islands, you might think you’ve landed on a sheep farm (quick fun fact: sheep population exceeds human population). When the Vikings first arrived in the Faroe Islands, the inhabitants had to learn to preserve food because of the harsh climate and limited supplies. The locals relied on fish, and migratory birds. They hung meat and fish in drying houses to take advantage of the constant low temperature and salty air.

As a result, modern Faroese kitchens are abundant with lamb, fish, and birds, and they cook their delicious meals using the salt preservation method.

Staying on the move will allow you to take advantage of all that Faroe Islands has to offer visitors. This Cruisit Faroe Islands travel guide provides an itinerary that strikes a balance between leisure and exploration. Arrive in this untapped Atlantic paradise and enjoy it to the fullest. The following itinerary for the Faroe Islands is tailored to the country’s peak tourist season, but may still be enjoyed during the shoulder months. With sunny days spent in ancient parts of town in the company of legend, or surrounded by verdant peaks and dramatic picture-perfect scenery, and hundreds of species to explore, Faroe Islands will fulfill your wildest dreams.

Moreover, we will provide you with all the information you need to go across Faroe Islands with ease by providing you with a comprehensive travel guide. As you read on, you’ll learn about the best of what Faroe Islands has to offer—its cities, sights, transit options, and more. If you’re pumped up enough, then let’s get started!

Top Places in Faroe Islands

Múlafossur Waterfall

The magnificent waterfall is located in Gásadalur, a small village on the island of Vágar that was cut off from the rest of the world until a tunnel was constructed in 2004. Take a boat ride and marvel at the waterfalls that cascade off a cliff face that is roughly 60 metres (200 feet) high.

Lake Sorvagsvatn

A lake with an optical illusion of nature, that is apparent when you approach the lake from the right angle, you’ll see what appears to be a lake floating above the ocean. You should take a picture of the incredible Bosdalafossur waterfall, which is located on the shores of Lake Sorvagsvatn. You can’t see the optical illusion from the southwest end of the lake, but you can from the southernmost point of the lake if you find the right angle. When you get to a place where there is a very steep hill, you’ve arrived!

 

Drangarnir

The best way to see Drangarnir, which is a cultural landmark, is on a boat tour. Sailing out of the beautiful Srvágsfjördur fjord, you will come upon it suddenly, with the spiky islet Tindhólmur serving as a backdrop. Assuming favourable conditions, you could make history by becoming one of only a handful of people to ever sail through that gap in the rocks.

Hvíthamar

From the mountain pass Gjáarskar, you can reach this incredible vantage point over the Funningsfjrur fjord in just 10 minutes of uphill hiking. You’ll be able to see the fjord and the sharp peaks of the mountains from above. The view to the north from Hvthamar is just as breathtaking. This vantage point is easily accessible and has a natural quality thanks to the typical presence of a breeze.

Hvthamar induces a profound peace within you. You can enjoy being in the great outdoors without tourist crowd at this location.

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs

A visit to Vestmanna Sea Cliffs by boat is a must if you want to see tens of thousands of birds in the sky. You’ll be sailing north along the coast, and if the weather’s right when you get to the bird cliffs, you can try to navigate through some of the cliffs there.

7-day Itinerary in Faroe Islands

Day 1

 

Arrive in Tórshavn

Welcome to the capital of the Faroe Islands. It’ll take about 45 minutes to drive to the hotels in town, so take your time and soak in the breathtaking scenery. After you’ve settled in, it’s time to explore the historic district on foot.

Discover traditional wooden homes with grass turf roofs, some of which date back hundreds of years as you stroll along cobblestone streets. Later, you can visit the waterfront and see the marina, as well as the historic parliament buildings and the old fortress. Afterward, you can dine somewhere with live music and have a good time.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: 
  • Mid-range: 
  • Luxury: 

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is no reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is little crime recorded in Tórshavn to warrant worry. You can walk safely at both day and night. Take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 2

 

Kirkjubøur & Saksun

The village on Streymoy Island is the Faroes’ most significant historical site, so you should go there first where y ou can have breakfast and coffee with the locals. Then, visit the 11th-century Kirkjubargarur farmhouse, which has been in the same family for 17 generations, and the ruins of the 14th-century Magnus Cathedral and the 13th-century St. Olav’s Church.

After that, head to Saksun to take in the impressive cliffs and relax on the beach. The next stop should be Tjrnuvk, Streymoy’s northernmost village and a popular surfing spot. In addition to being the site of one of the oldest known Viking burial grounds, the village also makes for a pleasant place to enjoy a lunch with the view.

After lunch, travel through the Faroe Islands’ dramatic landscape, passing the country’s highest point on your way to the village of Gjógv for coffee. Make your way back to the hotel via the scenic route, stopping for photos whenever you like.

Day 3

 

The Vikings Hike

Your day will begin with a short drive to your hiking destination after breakfast, during which you’ll pass by the Mannafelsdalur, where a bloody Viking battle took place 700 years ago. This hike takes you to breathtaking vistas of the open ocean and the cliffs of Vágoy and Trøllkonufingur. From here, you can also see the islands of Hestoy and Koltur. Have a coffee break at a nearby cafe before returning to the hotel.

Day 4

 

Exploring Nólsoy

The trip to Nólsoy Island will take up the entire day. To get to the island from Tórshavn, you’ll need to take a ferry for half an hour, and once you’re there, you can start your hike to the lighthouse. Later head back to the village and enjoy a meal or drink.

Day 5

 

Visiting Gásadalur, Bøur, & Sørvagsvatn

 

Start your day in Gásadalur on Vágar Island to see an abandoned village and the Mulafossur waterfall, which falls hundreds of metres into the North Atlantic. You’ll also see Mykines, where thousands of seabirds nest.

After you’ve had a good time, continue on to the town of Bøur before leaving to Tórshavn. Make a s top by Lake Sorvagsvatn and the Trollapan cliffs if you have the opportunity.

In addition, the Faroe Islands War Museum is located in Mivvágur and tells the story of the islands’ involvement in the war.

Day 6

 

Final Goodbyes

Don’t waste the final day of your trip if your flight home wasn’t at the end of day 5.
It won’t be easy to say goodbye to the Faroe Islands, so stock up on souvenirs if possible. You can also take a walk and take a goodbye photo. Have a good meal before you leave, but if time doesn’t permit, you can always get a good meal at one of the airport’s restaurants.

 

The Most Popular Food in Faroe Islands

The origins of the Faroese cuisine can be traced back to the time when the Norwegian Vikings settled on the islands and their only sources of food were the birds, greeneries in the valleys, and fish and whales. Vegetables and cattle are both hard to come by on the islands, so the locals use what nature gives.

Skerpikjøt

Skerpikjøt is a chewy mutton meat prepared by using hjallur to wind dry sheep’s legs. The meat acquires a unique taste from the cold island climate and salty air, setting it apart from similarly cured meats. It’s a popular breakfast with toasted sourdough bread and coarse salt.

Garnatálg

To prepare garnatálg, sheep intestines and tallow are shaped into large oval pieces and left to air dry. It’s then sliced up and fried in a lot of fat. The rendered fat is then used to create a sauce that is served on dried, fermented fish.

Seyðahøvd

Originating in Iceland, Seyðahøvd is crafted from a sheep’s head that has been halved to extract the brain. The brain is then dried and boiled before being served with mashed potatoes or turnips. Norway serves a similar dish, though it has a different name there.

 

Whale meat 

Typically, whale steaks are boiled, but they can also be fried. The meat of the whale can be salted either in dry salt or in salted water (saltlakað grind). Potatoes were not widely available in the Faroe Islands until the early to mid-19th century, but they have since become a traditional compliment to whale meat and blubber.

Faroese Grilled Salmon

The Faroe Islands are home to some of the world’s finest salmon. The Faroe Islands are known for its delicious salmon, and when there you must have some grilled Faroese salmon. This delicate fish may be prepared in a variety of ways, including on the grill, in the oven, or in a pan or cast-iron skillet, and then enjoyed by the whole family. This is the native feeding habitat of wild Atlantic Salmon, which is one of the reasons why they are so exceptional and delectable 

What's the Travel Budget for Faroe Islands

Final Thoughts on Faroe Islands

Dramatic scenery seen in every corner, traditional buildings and a greatly diverse culture, stunning and unusual landmarks, some of which are staggering sites, unbelievable warmth despite the cooler weather, exciting tunes and festivities, and vivid picture-perfect surroundings of highlands and pristine reserves best for wildlife sightings from the remaining big five all contribute to Faroese allure. Faroese recorded history dates back to at least 600 AD. Among the best secluded places to visit in all of Europe. Faroe Islands is a traveler’s paradise due to its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating historical monuments. Interested in visiting Faroe Islands?

Have you ever been to Faroe Islands? Leave your comments or questions in the section below.

Tags: Trekking Volcano Sunbathing Ultimate Guide Tanning Ultimate travel guide Marine Life World Cruisit Nature Cruise it Mountains Cruising UNESCO Heritage Sites Cruzit Wildlife Cruiseit Snorkeling

Cruisit Team

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© 2022, Cruisit. All rights reserved

error: Content is protected!!