The state to which the Faroe Islands belong. Where are the Faroe Islands located? Which hotel to choose in the Faroe Islands
For a very long time, the Faroe Islands will eventually appear on the screen.
An absolutely magical place.
An utterly magical place.
Mailboxes in homes resemble old-style school bags.
The shape of residential mailboxes resembles that of old Soviet school satchels.
Blue mailbox for sending letters (as in Denmark).
Each car has a dial with an arrow on the window (to indicate parking time, as in Italy).
Every car has a clock dial with one hand on its windshield (to mark the time the car was parked, same as in Italy).
Car number.
A license plate.
There are two types of trash cans here. One type has a mesh cage around the bag - like the city trash can in Bologna.
There are two types of garbage cans here. The first, a mesh cage with a bag inside, is similar to the municipal trash cans in Bologna.
Another type, more common, is a wooden box with a metal lid.
The second and more common type is a wooden box with a metal lid.
All sockets in the country are equipped with switches. It may appear that these are overhead light switches. But no, these are socket switches.
All the power outlets in the country are equipped with on/off switches. One might think at first that these are light switches. But no, they’re actually power outlet switches.
You can pay for absolutely everything with a credit card. The seller does not pick up the card; the buyer must swipe it himself, then enter the PIN code.
You can pay for anything and everything with a card. The cashier never touches the card—the customer must swipe it himself and then enter his PIN.
A Faroese grave should be decorated with a plaster dove, symbolizing grief.
In the Faroes, a proper tombstone must be decorated with a plaster dove, which symbolizes mourning.
Tórshavn
Torshavn
On the world map Map
A trash can on the highway.
A trash can on the highway.
Regular urn.
A regular trash can.
A trash can with a dispenser with bags for cleaning up dog shit hanging above it.
A trash can with a dog poop bag dispenser on top.
Crosswalk.
A pedestrian crossing.
Street signs are mounted on complex pipes.
Street name signs are mounted on complex pipes.
In case of ice, chests with sand are placed near the roads (the model is exactly like in Vilnius).
Bins with sand are placed along the roads in case of ice (the type of bin is identical to the one in Vilnius).
At the pedestrian crossing sign, the pole is decorated with an additional reflective stick with white and blue.
The posts supporting pedestrian crossing signs are additionally marked with blue and white reflective sticks.
And the “Children” sign has a white and red stick. Reminiscent of the pillars at the signs in Faro.
The “Children” sign, meanwhile, has a red and white post. It resembles the traffic sign posts in Faro.
Half of the country's traffic lights can be captured in one photograph.
Half the traffic lights which exist in the country fit into this one photo.
Bus schedule.
Bus stop.
Buses in the capital are electric and have a hump (somewhat reminiscent of Cuba).
The buses in the capital are all electric and have a hump (they bring Cuban buses to mind).
Capital homeless.
A homeless man in the city.
A manhole cover.
Dormitory area.
Skopun
Skopun
On the world map MapMost of the Faroe Islands are connected by bridges or underground tunnels. You need to travel here by ferry.
Most of the Faroe Islands are connected to one another with bridges or underground tunnels. To get here, however, one must take a ferry.
The largest mailbox in the world is located here. I signed a bunch of postcards on the ferry especially for him. Imagine my disappointment when it turned out that there was no slot for letters in this box. At all. I walked around it from all sides - it’s just a non-functional monument to a Faroese mailbox. Moreover, it was still old, before the mail rebranding.
This is where the largest post box in the world is located. I wrote a bunch of postcards on the ferry specifically for the occasion. Imagine my disappointment when I discovered that this post box has no slot for mail. At all. I went all the way around to check—it’s just a dummy monument commemorating the Faroes post box. And the old one at that—the postal service has since undergone a rebranding.
The world remembers the Faroe Islands once a year - when local residents notice a pod of whales, drive it into the bay and kill it. The greenies are screaming like crazy, activists are energized for long periods of time, bloggers are sharing links to photos of whales for a whole week. Then everyone is forgotten, and the Faroe Islands continue to live their lives.
The world is reminded of the Faroes’ existence once a year—when local residents spot a pod of whales, chase them into the bay and slaughter them. Environmentalists scream bloody murder, activists receive a fresh, long-lasting boost of energy, bloggers share links to photos of the whales for an entire week. Then everyone forgets, and the Faroes go on with their life.
They will outlive us all.
They will yet outlast us all.
Not everyone will be able to quickly show where exactly the Faroe Islands are on the map. At the same time, more and more tourists are going there. They are mainly attracted by the opportunity to take a break from noisy resorts, vibrant cities and city dust.
Located in the Norwegian Sea between Iceland and the Scottish Islands, the archipelago consists of 18 islands, of which 17 are inhabited. The population is 48 thousand. It is noteworthy that almost half of these people live in the capital or its suburbs. The Faroe region is considered bilingual. The official languages are Danish and Faroese, which combines different West Scandinavian dialects.
To date, there are no direct air flights from Russia to the islands. Therefore, tourists have to change planes in Denmark or Norway. You can pre-book your flight ticket using the Internet. You can get from one island to another by several means of transport, including by ferry. For some tourists, it is most convenient to travel around the islands on a boat hired for an additional fee.
Although the Faroe Islands belong to Denmark, you cannot enter their territory with a Schengen visa. The refusal to join the European Union was deliberate and was associated with taxes on fishing. Therefore, to get to the archipelago, you need to apply for a visa, which will have a special note. There are special visa centers where you can do this in many big cities. However, most travelers prefer the services of travel agencies. All necessary documents are transferred to the agency, and then the employees hand over the completed visas to the clients.
Climatic and weather conditions
The islands are located in the central part of a warm sea current known as the Gulf Stream. Therefore, this place has a constant off-season. Throughout the year, the number of sunny days does not exceed 80, and the rest of the time it rains. In addition, even in sunny weather strong winds blow. The most comfortable time to visit the archipelago will be the summer months, when precipitation is rare.
The Faroe Islands have a fairly mild climate. Average temperatures for winter range from approximately 0˚C to +4˚C. Summer temperature is 11-17˚C. The rainy season lasts from September to January on the islands. Further, the archipelago is plunged into fog, which does not allow the rays of the sun to pass through.
Another feature: the water near the islands is perfectly clear, and its temperature, even in winter, does not drop below +10˚C. This creates ideal conditions for fishing and diving in winter.
Nature
For those who prefer a holiday surrounded by pristine nature, the Faroe Islands are an ideal option. Most of the territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows and mountain ranges. Numerous lakes and fjords, gorges, cliffs and waterfalls will not leave anyone indifferent.
There are few trees on the islands, only occasionally you can see conifers, maples or mountain ash trees. Fauna connoisseurs can devote their free time on the archipelago to watching dolphins, seabirds, whales and seals. There are also incredibly large numbers of sheep grazing on the hills of these islands.
Sights of the archipelago
Of course, many tourists consider the main attractions in the Faroe Islands to be beautiful mountains and slopes with flocks of sheep, as well as compact towns and colorful roofs on houses.
Lovers of natural attractions will also appreciate the unique features of the different islands. For example, Streymoy is a paradise for fishing lovers. Here you can catch halibut, eels and even representatives of the salmon family. Nolsoy attracts tourists with its seal rookeries, and Fugloy with the fact that it is loved by millions of birds. And the northern settlement of Skarvanes is famous for a beautiful sea cliff called Tretlkonufingur, which translated means “troll woman’s finger.”
The archipelago also has a large selection of excursion programs. For example, this could be a visit to the capital and small villages or boat trips.
The capital of the islands, Tórshavn, is located in an incredibly picturesque area. Much of the village juts out over the fjord, offering stunning views of the mountains and steep cliffs. Tórshavn is a very quiet city. It is noisy only in the central square and on the piers.
The main attraction of the capital is the Munkastovan Monastery, built in the 15th century. It is noteworthy that the monastery, surrounded by a stone wall, is one of the few buildings that survived the great fire that raged in the 17th century.
Many will be interested in visiting the Historical Museum. Among its exhibits are ship models, fishing gear and agricultural implements, ranging from Viking times to the present day. Also here you can see items that local residents used in everyday life. There are also exhibits that are valuable from a religious point of view.
The House of Server Countries is also definitely worth a visit. There is an art gallery and a concert hall, and on summer evenings educational events are held for guests of the archipelago.
After a walk through Vidarlund Park, it is worth going to the Art Museum to see delightful examples of painting and sculpture.
If your trip to the archipelago is in July, you should plan your vacation so that you are sure to be on the islands on the 28th-29th. During this period, local people nationally celebrate St. Olaf's Day. According to tradition, celebrations include ceremonial religious and dance processions, art exhibitions, and rowing and equestrian competitions.
Gastronomic nuances
National cuisine has a close relationship with the climate of the archipelago. The two main ingredients that are used in preparing various dishes are lamb and fish. Gourmets visiting the Faroe Islands should definitely try local delicacies such as sheep's head and whale meat. No less interesting is ruyskjet (meat that has been dried for several months) and skärpiket – meat that has been dried for more than a year and is consumed without any processing. Often the same cooking method is used for drying fish.
Those tourists who prefer traditional cuisine should order fried lamb at the restaurant. You can also try puffins (this is the name of small birds), stuffed with sweet dough, served with potatoes and sweet berries.
It may surprise many that rhubarb is added to food everywhere here. Another interesting feature is that there are practically no fish shops on the islands. If the islanders want to cook fish, they catch it themselves, and after cooking they serve it with a side dish of rice or potatoes.
It is worth noting that the most popular drinks on the islands are coffee and tea. Locals often add herbs that grow on mountain slopes to tea. Alcoholic drinks are officially permitted from the age of 18. However, if light beer can be purchased everywhere, then low-alcohol drinks, strong dark beer and wine can only be purchased in government stores and in restaurants that have a special license.
Lunch at a regular restaurant will cost approximately $30. In higher-level establishments it will already be $45-50. The most budget-friendly snack option can be found in local cafes.
Where to stay?
After arriving in the capital, you can check into a three-star hotel. For example, it could be "Streim" or "Tórshavn". For those who like more comfortable conditions, “Hafniya” and “Feroyar” are suitable. It is worth noting that all hotels offer tourists rooms with private amenities. Also provided is transfer from the airport and back, free access to Wi-Fi. Hotel rates start from $120. Although you can get a seasonal discount.
A more economical accommodation option is a hostel or guest house. The most popular are “Bládýpi” and “Skansin”, but you should book rooms in them several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels on the islands where you can spend the night and have breakfast. Accommodation prices depend on the time of year and start from $80.
For tourists who prefer relaxing close to nature, campsites are available. Local residents value order very much, so campers are required to maintain cleanliness and thoroughly clean before leaving.
Main types of entertainment
There are many varieties of fish in coastal waters. Therefore, not only local residents, but also tourists are fond of fishing. By the way, according to the laws, any fish can be exported from this country if its length exceeds 30 cm.
The Faroe Islands are extremely interesting for wreck divers. After all, you can find sunken ships here. And near Nolsoy Island, divers like to watch how seals live underwater.
Those who cannot imagine a proper holiday without nightclubs should visit the capital’s “Rex” and “Eclipse”. However, it is worth considering that only young people aged 18-25 are allowed into the second club.
What to buy?
The most popular souvenirs are items made of wool, wood and ceramics. Due to the climate, the islanders cannot imagine their life without woolen clothes and accessories. Therefore, here you can always buy a stylish sweater, hat or gloves at an attractive price.
It is worth considering that from Monday to Thursday, most stores are open from 9:00 to 18:00. On Friday, the working day is often extended by another hour. But on Saturday everything closes earlier, and Sunday is a day off.
1. The most optimal transport for getting to the archipelago is an airplane. But there is only one international airport - Vagar, located near the village of Sorvagur.
2. To travel around the islands, you can rent a car. It will cost at least $60 per day. To rent, you must be over 20 years old, have a credit card and an international driver's license.
3. Tourists who prefer public transport can purchase maps with routes and schedules at Steinatún kiosks.
4. Traveling to the Faroe Islands is quite expensive. But when leaving the country, if you have a receipt from stores operating under the Tax Free system, you can return VAT. But only if the purchase amount in the receipt exceeds $48.
5. It is not customary to leave a tip on this archipelago. Staff remuneration is most often immediately included in the bill.
6. You can fish if you have a license, which is sold at tourist offices. If a tourist wants to take his fishing gear, he must sanitize it in advance.
7. The climate in the Faroe Islands is very changeable, so you must take warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes with you on the road.
Visa information
To obtain a visa in Moscow, you can contact the Danish Embassy. You must have with you:
- 2 photographs;
- completed application form;
- foreign passport (its expiration date must expire at least 3 months after the expiration of the visa) and its copy;
- national passport and its copy;
- insurance policy (coverage amount cannot be less than 30 thousand €);
- bank account statement;
- confirmation that the hotel has been booked;
- certificate from place of work or study.
The Faroe Islands are ideal for sophisticated travelers who want to take a break from vibrant cities and noisy resorts. The archipelago, located in the Norwegian Sea - the North Atlantic Ocean, between the Scottish Islands and Iceland - attracts even experienced travelers with its beauty.
The local nature is extraordinary: gorges, lakes, numerous waterfalls, fjords, graceful rocks - all this captivates at first sight. There are practically no trees, but you can endlessly admire the snow-capped mountain peaks towering over the lands of the archipelago. The highest point of these places is Slattarathindur peak located on the island Esturoy and is 882 meters above sea level.
The Faroe Region is an internal autonomy of the Kingdom of Denmark, independently managing almost all issues, excluding the topic of defense and foreign policy. The archipelago includes 18 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. Of the 48 thousand local residents, about 20 thousand live in the capital or in the suburbs.
There are two official languages on the islands - Faroese and Danish. Moreover, the vast majority of residents are native speakers of the Faroese language, which is a mixture of Western Scandinavian dialects and is widely used in almost all spheres of life.
Capital |
Tórshavn |
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Population |
48,500 people |
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Population density |
35 people/km 2 |
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Faroese, Danish |
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Religion |
Lutheranism |
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Form of government |
constitutional monarchy |
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Faroese krone, Danish krone |
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Timezone |
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International dialing code |
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Internet domain zone |
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Electricity |
Climate and weather
The Faroe Islands are located at the very center of the warm Gulf Stream, which causes a constant off-season: there are 280 rainy days per year. Despite the fact that the islands seem to have no boundaries to the seasons, the climate is quite mild. In winter, the average monthly temperature ranges from 0 °C to + 4 °C, and in the summer - from +11 °С to +17 °С. The rainy season falls from September to January, and then the archipelago is covered with fog, preventing the sun's rays from reaching the surface.
Thanks to the warm sea current, the water on the islands has almost the same temperature - +10 °С- all year round, which creates all the conditions for the development of fishing.
Nature
Holidays in the Faroe Islands are a holiday in the lap of nature in its original form. Due to frequent strong winds, the islands are mostly treeless; sometimes you can find mountain ash, maple, and conifers. A significant part of the islands' territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows, and mountain ranges.
In their free time, fauna lovers can diversify their vacation on the islands by observing colonies of seabirds, seals, whales, and dolphins.
There are a huge number of sheep in the archipelago. The latter were once brought to the local hills by the Celts. The local endless pastures have attracted the attention of sheep, and today there are two sheep for every local resident.
Attractions
The Faroe Islands are best visited during the summer months, when there is little rainfall and the weather is warm.
The excursion program in the Faroe Islands is varied: visits to the capital Tórshavn, small villages, bird colonies, a boat trip in coastal waters.
The capital of the islands, the city of Tórshavn, lies in a picturesque area. The main part of the city juts out over the fjord, offering stunning views of wild mountains and steep cliffs. It is very quiet here, only the central square and the piers are noisy, where continuous work is in full swing. Streets far from the center are usually small and cramped.
The main attraction of Tórshavn is Munkastowan Monastery, built in the 15th century and surrounded by a stone wall. Muncastowan is one of the few buildings that escaped the great fire of 1673. Another building that also survived the fire is the Leighubün royal warehouse.
Curious travelers will be interested in a trip to the Historical Museum, which has in its collection ship models, household items of local residents, fishing gear and agricultural tools from Viking times to the present day, as well as items of religious value.
Taking a walk in the park Vidarlund, you can go to the Museum of Art and enjoy magnificent examples of sculpture and painting.
Available in the Faroe Islands and "Bird Island"- Fugloy, which got its name from its majestic cliffs inhabited by millions of seabird colonies.
To the north of the settlement of Skarvanes there is a beautiful sea cliff Tretlkonufingur ("troll woman's finger").
At the end of July (28-29), the Faroese celebrate their main holiday - St. Olaf's Day. These days, usually reserved locals go on a wild rampage of emotions. The festival is named after Olaf II, who, as King of Norway, introduced Christianity to Scandinavia and began the fight against paganism.
Traditional celebrations include rowing competitions, horse racing, dance and religious processions, and art exhibitions.
Nutrition
The Faroes owe their national menu to the harsh climate of the islands. Traditionally, local dishes consist of meat and fish. Faroese delicacies - sheep's head, whale fat and skerpiquet(dried lamb) - a must-try for gourmets. Well, lovers of traditional cuisine will be happy to serve fried lamb in local restaurants. Tourists have the opportunity to taste exquisitely stuffed with sweet dough dead ends(these are birds) served with sweet berries and potatoes. Rhubarb, which is widely eaten, will also be new to many people.
Alcoholic drinks can officially be consumed on the islands from the age of 18. Light beer is sold everywhere, but strong dark beer, low-alcohol drinks and wine are sold only in state monopoly stores in large cities and licensed restaurants.
Lunch at a local restaurant will cost a tourist an average of $30, in higher-level establishments - $45-50, excluding alcohol. You can have a snack at a local cafe for much less.
Accommodation
Upon arrival on the islands, you can stay in the capital's three-star hotels "Tórshavn" or "Streim" or in more comfortable "Hafnia" And "Feroyar", All hotels offer tourists rooms with private amenities, transfer to/from the airport, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The cost of living is quite high - from $120, but there are seasonal discounts.
A more budget-friendly option would be guest houses and hostels. The most popular of them are Skansin and Bladýpi, but you need to book rooms several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels operating on the principle "bed and breakfast". Prices here start at $80 and depend on the time of year.
For travelers who prefer outdoor recreation, there are campsites located in specially designated areas. The Faroe Islands have a very strict attitude towards order, so campers in tents are required to remain clean and thoroughly clean upon departure.
Entertainment and relaxation
There are many varieties of fish in local waters, so fishing is very popular among locals and vacationers. By the way, local law allows you to export any fish longer than 30 cm from the country, which has long been prohibited in most European countries.
The Faroe Islands are interesting for wreck divers: You can find sunken ships in the local coastal waters. Near Nolsoy Island it is interesting to watch the underwater life of seals.
Nightlife lovers can spend time in the capital's clubs Rex or Eclipse. The latter allows visitors no younger than 18, but no older than 25.
Purchases
Of the Faroese souvenirs, the most interesting are the numerous woolen products, ceramic and wooden crafts.
Due to the rather harsh climate, woolen clothing is held in high esteem among the islanders. Here you can always buy a fashionable sweater, gloves or hat at attractive prices.
Most shops are open from 9:00-10:00 to 17:30-18:00. On Friday, many remain open until 19:00. On Saturdays, all retail outlets operate on a reduced schedule - from 9:00 to 12:00, 14:00 or 16:00; on Sundays they are usually closed.
Transport
The Faroe Islands have a developed bus route network, and ferries run between the islands. The capital has red local buses with four routes, which can reach almost all areas of the city. The waiting interval is half an hour in the morning and daytime; in the evening it increases to one hour. Blue buses Bygdaleiðir are the connecting transport of the islands. Maps of routes and schedules of passenger transport can be purchased at kiosks Steinatún.
The best way to get to the islands themselves is by plane. The only international airport, Vagar, is located on the island of the same name near the village of Sorvagur. Tourists can rent a car to travel around the islands. In order to rent, you must have an international driver's license, a credit card and be over 20 years old. Rental prices start from $60 per day.
Connection
Mobile communication standard on the islands - GSM. There is also an analogue version, but it has almost been replaced by the digital format.
Local mobile operators - Foroya Tele and Kall P/F. Roaming in their networks is available to subscribers of the main mobile operators in Russia.
Tourists can purchase a SIM card for local mobile communications at Teleshops, hotels, post offices and gas stations.
In the Faroe Islands, there are also sufficient numbers of payphones (they work with credit cards and coins). When calling abroad, you need to dial 00, the national code and the number of the called subscriber.
You can use the Internet in an Internet cafe. Most hotels provide wireless connections on their premises.
Safety
When traveling around the islands, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your property - the crime rate here is extremely low. In order not to spoil your holiday, it is enough not to leave personal belongings unattended, not to take large sums of money with you, to be polite to local residents and not to abuse night walks. If necessary, the police are always ready to help.
If during your trip you need medical assistance, you can rest assured that it will be provided at the highest level. The central hospital is located in the capital and has an excellent medical base.
Business climate
Registering a business in the Faroe Islands takes only a few days. The most common forms are the joint stock company, suitable for large companies, and the limited liability company. In order to start your own business here, you need to have a legal address on the islands. Another condition is a resident of the Kingdom of Denmark as one of the participants in the case.
The minimum authorized capital for a joint stock company is approximately $85,000, for a limited liability company - about $20,000. For registration you will also need a draft memorandum of association, articles of association and an application.
Foreign companies can enter the Faroese market by opening branches. A resident of the islands or Denmark must also be appointed as the head of the branch.
From the point of view of taxation, business legislation, and accounting standards, the Faroe Islands provide optimal conditions for the development of companies. The legal regulation of business activities is similar to Danish and adheres to European Union standards.
The main business in the archipelago is concentrated in the services sector and the fishing industry.
Local investment websites offer offers for entrepreneurs willing to invest in new ways to develop the fishing industry. At the same time, the Faroese are very interested in high-tech businesses that can offer environmentally friendly solutions for production.
Real estate
Purchasing real estate abroad is rightfully considered one of the most promising and long-term investments. The Faroe Islands can be an excellent place for both temporary and permanent residence. They become especially attractive to people who love comfort and privacy, and who strive for order. Offers on the real estate market are varied - from a small studio apartment to a solid large house. The prices are quite attractive. A house with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large surrounding area will cost approximately $130,000.
However, those who decide to make such a deal should keep in mind that local banks do not provide mortgages for housing in the absence of a residence permit. In addition, local legislation requires appropriate permission from the Ministry of Justice for the acquisition of property by a foreigner.
Traveling to the islands is not a cheap pleasure. The price level here is quite high and is equal to the average European one. However, when leaving the country, tourists can make a VAT refund if they have a receipt from a store operating under the Tax Free system. The corresponding inscriptions are present at the entrance to the retail facility. To qualify for a tax refund, your one-time purchase must exceed $48.
Tipping is not accepted on the islands; the service staff's remuneration is usually already included in the bill.
Fishing is only permitted in certain bodies of water on the basis of a license sold at tourist offices. If a tourist intends to take fishing gear with him from home, then it must be sanitized before arriving on the islands. Instructions for fishermen can be found in tourist brochures. In streams and streams, the fishing season is open from May 1 to August 31, in the sea - all year round.
When traveling, you should not forget about the local changing climate. On vacation, it won’t hurt to have warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes for moving through mountainous terrain and trips to the sea.
Vaccination before travel is not required. Emergency phone number is 112.
Visa information
To obtain a visa, you must contact the consular department of the Danish Embassy in Moscow at the address: Prechistensky Lane, 9.
Anyone wishing to obtain a visa must provide a visa application form, 2 photographs, a foreign passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the requested visa) with a copy, a national passport with a copy, confirmation of a hotel reservation, a certificate from the place of work (study), an insurance policy covering everything risks (the amount of insurance coverage should not be less than 30,000 €), a bank account statement or travel checks (at the rate of 50 € for each day of stay).
More information about the package of documents can be found at the consular section on weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00.
An area undeservedly forgotten by Russian tourists, characterized by a harsh climate, is located at the very edge of the world, but vacationers who have been here admit that for the sake of amazing scenery it is worth dropping everything and going on an exciting journey.
A corner lost on the edge of the earth
However, not every person will show where the Faroe Islands are located on the world map. Even though they are part of Europe, most people won't find them on the globe. Such remoteness from civilization benefited the place, lost in the Atlantic Ocean, which has preserved its pristine nature and originality.
Finding the Faroe Islands on a world map is quite difficult, especially for those who have never heard anything about them. Located between Iceland and Great Britain, they are in the North Atlantic. Officially belonging to Denmark, the Faroe Islands are a small state with an area of 1,399 km2. The archipelago consists of 34 municipalities, and the islands are home to more than 100 towns and villages.
Green oasis on our planet
Repeatedly, the Faeroe Islands, which have virtually no trees, have been recognized as the cleanest on the planet. Emerald meadows and a unique landscape attract not only brave tourists, but also photographers who capture the amazing beauty that just begs to be featured on magazine covers.
The archipelago, recognized as the most picturesque in the North Atlantic, is a rocky area. The steep banks are steep and very high, but it is the numerous hills that attract travelers and collectors who photograph unusual landscapes.
Descendants of the Vikings
It is known that the first settlements appeared in the territory where the Faroe Islands are now located in the 8th century. Initially, the Scots lived here, but they soon left the region due to raids by Old Scandinavian warriors. For many centuries, the area served as a transit point for the Vikings, who considered that this region was very suitable for them and took root here. Modern inhabitants of the Sheep Islands (and this is how the name of the archipelago is translated) are the descendants of glorious heroes who inherited the will and strong character from their courageous ancestors. The Faroese cherish ancient traditions and lead a unique way of life. They are even proud of their old-fashionedness: instead of lawnmowers, they have sheep, and the men cover the roofs of their houses with turf with green grass.
The population of the Faroe Islands is almost 49 thousand people. These are people who have maintained a good relationship with nature and care about it.
Whose archipelago?
In the 19th century, the lost corner for which Denmark and Norway fought became Danish. After World War II, the islands wanted to gain independence, but the government of the southernmost Scandinavian country granted them partial sovereignty.
So who owns the Faroe Islands? No researcher will give a definite answer to this question. Formally, the Queen of Denmark is considered the head of the archipelago, but all processes taking place on the islands are led by the High Commissioner. In terms of international law, the Faroe Islands are not an independent entity. The local parliament (Løgting) consists of 33 deputies who are vested with special powers. Representatives of six political parties decided not to join the European Union.
The Kingdom of Denmark, in whose parliament two representatives from the archipelago sit, helps the islands financially, resolves issues of justice and defense, and the Faroese government independently deals with issues of public policy, except for foreign ones. To this day there is talk of gaining independence from Denmark.
Climate and weather
As noted earlier, not every person accustomed to comfortable holiday conditions can withstand the harsh nature of an exotic place. The weather in the Faroe Islands will not be to everyone's liking. The sun rarely shines here, it often rains heavily, but even in clear weather strong winds blow. Maximum precipitation falls between September and January, but snow is a very rare occurrence in the archipelago.
In summer, the temperature does not rise above 17 o C, and lovers of the sun and warmth will be disappointed with their vacation. Therefore, for those who prefer to soak up the snow-white beaches, it is better to go to the Maldives or the Bahamas. The water around the islands does not warm up above 10 o C, and fashionable swimsuits and sunglasses are not useful here.
In winter, the cold reigns, which penetrates to the bones due to high humidity, so at this time tourists do not visit the archipelago, where the weather changes so often.
Administrative center of the islands
Tórshavn, the main port of the archipelago, is the capital of the Faroe Islands, home to about 20 thousand inhabitants. Without visiting her, acquaintance with this amazing region will be incomplete. The Old Town is considered the most interesting place, and tourists admire the pretty colorful houses that transport you into a real fairy tale.
The administrative center, founded in the 10th century, is located on the island of Streymoy, and here you need to stay at least for a few days. Art galleries, a historical museum, cozy cafes and restaurants, fashion stores - all this will allow you to experience the amazing flavor of the capital of the Faroe Islands.
The luxurious and tall Fossa waterfall is recognized as the most beautiful miraculous landmark of Tórshavn.
A unique lake on the edge of an abyss
The main attraction of this lost corner is considered to be its virgin nature, which is perfectly preserved due to the harsh climate and remoteness from the civilization of the Faroe Islands (Denmark). High cliffs, emerald fields, endless ocean, gray mists and lacy clouds almost touching the ground leave no one indifferent. Even the most discerning travelers speak with admiration of the landscapes of this wonderful region.
Vagar Island attracts the attention of tourists with an amazing body of water, the beauty of which defies description. Located on a stone platform, it seems to float in the air without falling off the edge of a high cliff. Hanging Lake Sorvagsvatn (Faroe Islands), located above sea level, is a sight that is difficult to forget. Travelers who admire a natural monument only in photographs often think that this is a professional photomontage, and in fact the body of water lies on different planes with the Atlantic Ocean. And only after visiting the attractive region do many understand the uniqueness of this masterpiece.
The clear waters of the lake flow into the ocean through a waterfall hidden in the rocks with the unpronounceable name Bossdalsfossur.
Local Attractions
The Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands, one of which is completely uninhabited. There are no people living on Tindholmur, although scientists suggest that many centuries ago they did live here.
Streymoy Island, which is the largest, is loved by all fishing enthusiasts.
Nolsoy is famous for its huge number of seals.
Sandoy delights tourists with its luxurious landscape: there are beautiful sand dunes here.
Fugloy, whose name translates as “bird island,” is indeed a favorite of birds. Various representatives of birds settle on high cliffs.
Mycines Island is famous for the fact that only 13 people live on it. This is the quietest corner you can only dream of.
Esture is a picturesque place connected by a bridge to the island of Streymoy. Deep fjords create an unforgettable landscape. Mount Slattaratindur rises here with a height of about 900 meters.
On Rinkusteinar, the main natural attraction is two huge stones rocking on the waves. Local residents believe that the boulders are Viking longships, and that once upon a time an evil sorceress turned warships into boulders.
Kalsoy is an island whose coastline consists of rocky cliffs. All settlements here are connected by numerous underground tunnels. To the north is the famous Katlur Lighthouse.
Historical monuments
Munkastovan Monastery is the oldest architectural monument of the Faroe Islands. The landmark survived a terrible fire that raged in the city in the 17th century. Munskastovan survived only thanks to the stonework.
Local residents call the historical fortress Skansin the most peaceful on our planet. The defensive structure protected against pirate attacks, and now delights tourists with an excellent panorama that opens from the observation deck.
Diving and fishing
Divers flock here to explore the underwater world. Where the Faroe Islands are located, there are several dozen dive points, as well as the only diving center, and even beginners can test their strength here.
Fishing is a real passion of the indigenous population, and many tourists head to the water in the company of locals who offer valuable advice. This is an unforgettable experience and a unique opportunity to see magnificent landscapes. You can go out to sea on a fishing boat and cast a fishing rod where you can never reach from the shore. This is a real adventure that remains in the memory forever.
What else can tourists do?
You can go on a boat tour of the caves and attend a concert of local musicians in the underground kingdom.
Extreme sports enthusiasts who want to tickle their nerves choose scuba diving or kayaking.
Where the Faroe Islands are located, hiking trails are very popular. However, be careful, because in dense fogs you can get lost, falling behind the group, or fall off a steep cliff. There is even an old legend that says that lonely travelers are thrown off the cliff by the so-called hidden inhabitants - huldufolk. Mystical creatures in gray clothes that merge with the stones live in the rocks and are unkindly disposed towards the lost.
In summer, a large number of tourists come to the islands to watch the colorful event and take part in it. At the end of July, the cheerful Olafsöka festival takes place, coinciding with the archipelago's national holiday. Residents dressed in beautiful costumes take to the streets of Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), musicians give concerts, and there is a cheerful atmosphere everywhere.
Heaven's Gate of the Archipelago
In the 60s of the last century, the archipelago was occupied by Britain, and the airport built on the Faroe Islands was used for military purposes. For more than 40 years, the spacious building stood abandoned, and only at the beginning of this century it was modernized: the capacity of the heavenly gates is now 400 thousand passengers per year.
Located a few kilometers from the village of Sorvagur, on the island of Vágar (Voar), the airport operates both domestic and charter flights to Europe. In addition, it is connected by helicopter to the entire archipelago.
The building has a waiting room, a medical room, luggage storage, several cafes, and a duty-free shop. You can also rent a car here.
Faroe Islands: how to get there?
Russian tourists dreaming of enjoying the stunning scenery of untouched nature should know that there are no direct flights from Moscow to the archipelago. First you will have to fly with a transfer to Norway or Denmark, and only then get to the only airport on the islands. Despite the remoteness, it is very easy to get to the Faroe Islands from the megacities of Northern Europe: the flight takes only two hours. And there is a ferry between the islands, the services of which you can use, and a helicopter will help you get to the most remote places.
To visit the Faroe Islands, which is an autonomous region, Russians require a special island visa (Schengen is not suitable). Despite the fact that the exotic place officially belongs to Denmark, the islands live by their own laws. To ensure that your trip is not overshadowed by anything, you will have to take care of a visa in advance. Its processing is handled by authorized visa centers in Moscow, Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Samara and other large cities. The consular fee is approximately 1,500 rubles, but depending on the exchange rate of the Danish krone, its cost may increase. The visa processing time ranges from eight days to two months. If you use the services of a travel agency, its employees will prepare all the documents themselves.
Where to stay?
The Faroe Islands, where time flies unnoticed, provide tourists with comfortable conditions for relaxation. You can stay in three-star hotels offering comfortable rooms, or choose more budget options in hostels and guest houses. Those who like to live in tents will be able to settle in special campsites, but they will have to remove all garbage before leaving. In addition, there are convenient accommodation options for those who come for several days: bed and breakfast hotels.
Those who are planning to travel on their own should book rooms 2-3 months in advance. Prices depend on the tourist season, as well as the time of year. But don’t forget about warm clothes and special shoes for walking in the mountains.
The Faroe Islands have many natural attractions that every traveler should see. Here are the most interesting of them.
The Faroe Islands are not the most popular tourist destination. This land is sometimes also called “the end of the world”, because not every person is able to find the Faroe Islands on the map. But the Faroe Archipelago can rightfully be called one of the most beautiful places on our planet. There are excellent conditions for hiking here. And the landscapes are striking in their diversity: from rocky cliffs to heather-covered heaths; from crystal clear waterfalls to snow-capped mountain peaks.
Faroe Islands - attractions
We have found 6 places and points of attraction, which will definitely be enough for your first visit to see the most interesting places in the Faroe Islands. And get your own impression of the grandeur and beauty of the archipelago, located in the ocean - somewhere halfway from Denmark to. By the way, the Faroe Islands and all their natural attractions are under the jurisdiction of Denmark.
1. Tindholmur Island
It is a small island located between the larger islands of Vagar and Micenes. It is interesting because it has a pointed mountain peak that occupies almost the entire area of Tindholmur. A stunning view of this small piece of land opens from the settlement of Bour, which is located on the neighboring island. But the best way to view Tindholmur is from a helicopter or ferry. You can visit the island itself, but excursions to Tindihölmur are only available in the summer.
The pointed peak of the island of Tindhölmur - the symbol of the Faroe Islands
2. Gasadalur village
It is located next to Vagar airport. This is one of the most popular and interesting places in the Faroe Islands. Despite this, you will never meet more than three people here. The small houses of this village are located on the top of a cliff next to a waterfall, the waters of which fall directly into the ocean. This place will seem like a paradise for introverts and people who love silence and solitude.
Coast of the village of Gasadalur on the island of Vágar (Faroe Islands)
3. Lake Sørvågsvatn
It is impossible not to pay attention to another attraction of the Faroe Islands, also located in close proximity to Vagar Airport. Tourists can see this lake even during landing. Local residents also gave Sørvågsvatn another name - “hanging lake”. This is due to the fact that the lake is located almost above the ocean. And if you look at it from a certain angle, it creates the illusion that the lake is hanging above the ocean surface.
Lake Sørvågsvatn is one of the most interesting places in the Faroe Islands
4. Chednuvuk village
A small village located on the territory of the island of Streymoy. The village is located in a beautiful harbor, which is surrounded on all sides by mountain peaks. Here you can see another attraction of the Faroe archipelago - two sea cliffs, the name of which, translated into Russian, sounds like “The Giant and the Witch”. Against the backdrop of the mountains, these stones may seem just tiny, but if you get closer to them, you will find that their height reaches 70 meters! Now think about how high the neighboring rocks then reach.
On the way to this beautiful village you can also see the Fossa waterfall, which is the largest in the Faroe Islands.
What else to see in the Faroe Islands? Island life, in the village of Chednuvuk!
5. Fugloy Island
This is a place where you can experience and understand what Faroese life is like. The streets here are usually deserted. You can meet local residents only at those moments when the ferry approaches the pier, and almost the entire village comes out to meet it. The rest of the time, loneliness and tranquility reign here. It may seem that the surrounding houses are empty, and you are the only person on this earth. But this does not cause a feeling of fear, only peace and melancholy.
6. Mycines Island
Like other attractions of the Faroe Islands, it can be called a real pearl of the archipelago. In summer, photographers and simply nature lovers from all over the world flock here. Firstly, the island is attractive with its beautiful scenery. Numerous paths lead directly to high rocks and mountain cliffs. For many, this is already enough to visit the Faroe Islands. But there is another reason.
There are huge colonies of birds here. The most attractive of them are puffins, which absolutely everyone loves. There are so many of them here that nests can be seen at every step.
Bird colonies on Mycines Island - is it possible to pass by such beauty?
Another attraction of the island is a very old lighthouse (see on the cover of the article), which was built a hundred years ago. Actually, the lighthouse is located on the island of Mychinesholm, but these days a bridge has been built between it and the main island. Before the lighthouse was automated, a keeper and his family lived in it. Now create a picture of their life in your imagination. They were cut off from the rest of the world, and only ships brought them food and news from the mainland.
Stories like this add a little magic to places like this...
Where to stay in the Faroe Islands
So, where is the best place to book a hotel to make it convenient to go on excursions, visit and photograph the sights of Faroe Islands? Oddly enough, the most convenient place is in the capital - from there you can buy tickets for ferries in all directions. Therefore, all the hotels that we have selected for you are located in Tórshavn:
- Hotel Føroyar 4*. A designer hotel designed by the Danish bureau Friis & Moltke in an incredibly picturesque location - on the shores of the Faroe fjord. Beautifully decorated modern rooms, Koks restaurant serving national cuisine, various lounge areas. The center of Tórshavn is 2 km from here. But each room has a view of Nolsoy Bay.
Four-star hotels in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands - Hotel Føroyar
- Hotel Havn. Modern inexpensive hotel in the area of the picturesque bay - the main harbor of Tórshavn. It’s a 20-minute walk from here to the center—scenic walks—even early in the morning, even under the moon—are guaranteed to you. But next to Hotel Havn There is also a public transport stop.
Inexpensive but high-quality hotel in the Faroe Islands - Hotel Havn
- Hotel Hafnia 4*. The coolest four star hotel we have found. The price is not bad, and the location on the main street of Tórshavn is hard to imagine better! The rooms are very comfortable with all imaginable amenities and bells and whistles. I was pleased with the restaurant where you will have breakfast - the view of the harbor is simply superb.
- The Atlantic Swan. Apartments in Tórshavn for a company of 6 people (3 bedrooms). There is a common room, a kitchen, and parking spaces. This is a great option if you can book it. These apartments are in demand and have a rating of 9.8 out of 10 on booking.com. It's worth hurrying!
Independent apartments in the Faroe Islands
Video: the most interesting places in Faroe
Video journey from Alex Stead to the most famous attractions of the Faroe Islands.
As a summary
The Faroe Islands are a whole world away from civilization. Her crazy pace of life. Here you are surrounded only by high mountains, vast open spaces and the ocean. Nothing is holding you back: neither city high-rises, nor traffic lights, nor traffic. You can go where your heart wants. This is why people in the Faroe Islands have a kind and big heart, because this is what helps them live in these wild places, surrounded only by rocks and a raging ocean.
- and routes