Located halfway between Iceland and Norway is a wonder of nature with a rich ancient history – the Faroe Islands. Surrounded by towering cliffs, green hillsides, endless lakes, and steep mountainsides, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of this land of giants. It’s a stunning archipelago of 18 islands, of which 17 are inhabited. The islands cover about 1,400 square kilometers of land and have 1,100 kilometers of coastline. The landscape is rocky and shaped by volcanic activity, with many cliffs along the shore.
Time seems to move slowly at the Faroe Islands and life here is closely tied to sea, especially fishing. With its rich history, stunning bird cliffs, and countless waterfalls, a trip here will be truly memorable. In this blog, you will learn more about these stunning islands, their history, nordic traditions, and tips for travelers.
Unpredictable Climate & Best Time to Visit
The Faroe Islands are known for their rapidly changing weather. You might experience all seasons within a single day sometimes. These islands experience a maritime subarctic climate, characterized by short, mild summers and cool, wet winters. The weather can be windy, wet, and cloudy throughout the year. Average temperatures typically range from 1°C to 12°C with summer highs averaging around 13°C and winter lows dropping to about 6°C. Rain is common, often manifesting as drizzle or showers, which is typical for an island located in the North Atlantic.
The best time to visit is during summer, particularly from June to August. During this period, visitors can expect drier and warmer weather, with average temperatures ranging from 13°C to 15°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking. Summer in these islands can have around 20 hours of daylight in June, which allows for the extended exploration of the landscapes.
While winter can be quite cold and unpredictable, it offers unique experiences such as the chance to see the Northern Lights and enjoy the dramatic winter scenery. However, if you’re looking for more stable weather conditions, summer is definitely the preferred season for most travelers.
The Rich History
These Islands are known as Føroyar in Faroese, which translates to “Sheep Islands,” reflecting the islands’ early agricultural practices and the significance of sheep farming to their economy. The islands were likely settled in the 9th century by Norse farmers fleeing from Norway. These settlers brought barley and sheep, which were crucial for their subsistence. The early culture was heavily influenced by Norse mythology, similar to other Scandinavian regions.
During the medieval period, the Faroe Islands were part of the Kingdom of Norway. They were governed by local chieftains and developed a unique culture that blended Norse traditions with influences from the British Isles, particularly from Scotland and Ireland. In the 14th century, the islands came under Danish control as part of the Kalmar Union, which united the crowns of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Following the dissolution of the union in the early 16th century, these islands remained a part of Denmark, although they retained a degree of local governance.
In the 20th century, these Islands experienced significant political and economic changes. They gained home rule in 1948, allowing for greater self-governance while remaining an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The fishing industry became the backbone of the Faroese economy, although it faced challenges, including economic downturns and unemployment in the late 20th century.
Nordic Influence on the Culture of Faroe Islands
The culture here is deeply rooted in Nordic traditions. Because of its long isolation from major cultural movements in Europe, the islands have preserved much of their traditional culture. Faroese is the primary language spoken on these islands. It is one of the three North Germanic languages that grew from Old Norse; the language spoken during the Viking Age. Faroese is closely related to Icelandic, Norwegian, Danish, and Swedish.
The second widely spoken language is Danish, and most people there can speak and write it. Many Faroese people also understand and can speak Icelandic, Norwegian, English, and Swedish.
Religion is important here and is deeply intertwined with the community’s identity and traditions. The predominant faith is Lutheran Christianity, which has been historically linked to both Norway and Denmark.
The Faroese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. They have a strong tradition of storytelling, which plays a significant role in their social interactions and cultural identity. Community life is vibrant and focuses on family and social gatherings.
Explore the Stunning Beauty of the Islands
The Faroe Islands are the hidden gem that gained popularity because of the visual storytelling on Instagram. These islands cover all sorts of treasures – stunning waterfalls, beaches, and mountains. Here are some of the places that you can visit during your trip.
1. Múlafossur Waterfall
It is a stunning natural attraction located near the village of Gásadalur. Before 2004, the only way to reach Gásadalur was by hiking a steep trail over the mountains. Now, a tunnel connects the village to the road from Vágar airport, making it much easier to visit.
2. Tórshavn
It is the capital of these Islands and is known for its charming streets, colorful harbor, and excellent dining options. This place is best if you are interested in nightlife, shopping, and bars.
3. Tjørnuvík
It is a little village on the island of Streymoy and is known for its beautiful black-sand beach and stunning views of the sea stacks called Risin og Kellingin (the Giant and the Witch). Here, you can explore a local shop that sells antiques and whale bones or enjoy some delicious waffles and coffee at a cozy café.
4. Trelanípan
If you’ve seen pictures of Lake Leitisvatn (also known as Lake Sørvágsvatn) on social media, you might recognize it as one of the most famous sights in the Faroe Islands. From certain angles, it looks like the lake is floating above the ocean, creating a stunning optical illusion.
5. Gjógv
It is a small fishing village known for its beautiful gorge, which provides a safe harbor. The drive to Gjógv is stunning as the road winds down through green hills filled with sheep and leads to the sea. In the village, you’ll find charming whitewashed houses with turf roofs, a small church, and only a few residents.
6. Dranganir Sea Arch
It is located on a triangular-shaped island just off the coast of Bøur. You can enjoy views of this impressive natural formation from the shore or take a boat ride around it and the nearby island of Tindhólmur.
The Traditional Flavors of the Islands
In recent years, young chefs have incorporated local ingredients into innovative dishes that have gained recognition, even earning Michelin-star status. This led to the Faroe Islands being dubbed the “new Nordic food frontier”.
Faroese cuisine is a unique blend of traditional practices and modern culinary innovation and is deeply influenced by the islands’ remote location in the North Atlantic. It primarily revolves around seafood and lamb, which are found in abundance here. The most renowned seafood includes haddock, plaice, halibut, herring, and shrimp. The islands are mostly famous for their salmon for its amazing quality. Sheep are the most common farm animals, and their meat is a staple in the local diet. A traditional delicacy is skerpikjøt, which is a well-aged, wind-dried mutton, and showcases the Faroese method of preserving meat.
Tips for Travelers
- The Faroe Islands use the Faroese Króna, which is equivalent to the Danish Krone (DKK).
- The weather is unpredictable, so it’s recommended to pack layers and waterproof gear. Renting a car is suggested for exploring the islands, but be cautious because of sheep on the roads.
- These Islands can be expensive, so consider self-catering accommodation. Popular spots like Mykines Island require advance booking. Some locations also have entry fees.
- There’s a range of accommodation options. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Check opening times for restaurants and cafes, as many close on Sundays and national holidays.
- Alcoholic drinks are only sold in specific shops and establishments. It’s cheaper to buy from Duty-Free shops at the airport or ferry.
The Faroe Islands are stunning and a perfect destination to soak in the natural beauty and explore the authentic traditional culture of Nordic and Vikings. Add this amazing place to your bucket list and make sure to tick it off when you plan your next vacation.
