Slanted layers of basalt, mountains, rocky cliffs and sea stacks rising from the ocean shape the landscape of the Faroe Islands.

Cliffs, birds and marked trails

Around 50 bird species regularly breed in the Faroe Islands, and many more stop there during migration. On cliff tours from May to August, you can get close to thousands of breeding seabirds in summer, including puffins, guillemots and fulmars. Timing is essential for this experience; tour conditions may vary. Mykines, Skúvoy and Nólsoy are designated Ramsar sites.

On foot and on two wheels

The Faroe Islands have more than 300 kilometres of marked hiking trails; their total length may change over time. These include the climb to Slættaratindur, the islands’ highest peak. This offers a broad choice of marked trails alongside a specific, named hiking destination.

Cycling options also vary: routes include the challenging stretch between Eiði and Funningsfjørður, as well as easier rides along the coast. Check road conditions before setting out; the two options offer different focuses for planning your trip.

Coast and water activities

When kayaking, you can paddle past sea stacks, into caves and along steep cliffs. Guided kayak tours depart from places including Leynar on the west coast of Streymoy. Kayaking is highly weather-dependent; the tour provider can advise you about conditions.

Tjørnuvík beach is a surf spot for cold-water surfers, with surf lessons and board rentals available. If you’re interested, check availability for your visit in advance.

Boat tours pass beneath the sea cliffs of Vestmanna or along the west coast of Suðuroy, offering views of the landscape from the water. Routes and availability may vary. Fishing options also vary: you can fish from the shores of many fjords, while guided deep-sea trips let you fish for cod, haddock and pollack. Guided tour availability and conditions depend on the provider.

Ballads and cultural attractions

Faroese ballads have been passed down orally since the 13th century. For centuries, people sang them while dancing and going about their daily lives, for example during evening handicrafts such as knitting or working with wool. They were first written down in the early 19th century. Their long oral history and subsequent recording in writing mark two distinct stages in this tradition.

The Faroe Islands’ cultural attractions also include old churches and art galleries. Together with the ballads, they offer different ways to explore the islands’ culture, without limiting your trip to a single theme.

Getting around the islands

Most of the Faroe Islands are connected by roads, bridges and undersea tunnels. With a multi-day pass, travellers can use buses and ferries; Mykines is excluded. Check the current ticket conditions before travelling if you plan to use these connections.

Discover more destinations: Tórshavn, Gjógv, Vágar, Eysturoy, Streymoy, Sandoy.

Return to the main travel overview: Faroe Islands.