Journey to Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
Hiking the Faroe Islands
Overview
Set in the wild North Atlantic halfway between Iceland and Norway, the Faroes are one of Europe’s lesser-known destinations, with a surreal landscape of soaring sea cliffs, harbor villages, and famously shaggy sheep (they outnumber people here 2:1). In this remote realm, we’ll hike the fjords, the sea cliffs, the emerald moorlands, and the black-sand beaches. Between hikes, we’ll be welcomed into local homes, watch traditional Faroese dancing, hear family stories and Norse legends, and explore enchanting villages with brightly painted homes. The welcome is genuine and the seafood is hook-to-table fresh. We’ll savor our meals in the company of knitters, chefs, and artists as we experience the genuine culture of the Faroes.
Arrive: Sørvágur, Faroe Islands
Depart: Sørvágur, Faroe Islands
Highlights
- Discover the Faroe Islands’ unrivaled beauty on stunning coastal hikes
- Enjoy traditional Faroese music and dance as well as the contemporary arts scene
- Sample the islands’ culinary delights, from superb local lamb to fresh-caught fish to fine spirits
- Learn about the Viking heritage
- Meet knitters, farmers, artisans, dine with local families
- Stay in welcoming hotels and guesthouses—some hikes start right from the front door!
Itinerary
On Vágar, we hike the stupendous cliffs at Trælanípa to view Sørvágsvatn, a clifftop lake that seems suspended in the sky. We’ll ferry below Faroese rock formations to Mykines Island, with its spine of sheer cliff faces, walk through its turf-roofed village, and hike to a puffin colony.
We’ll boat below the thousand-foot-high Vestmanna cliffs sculpted into craggy arches and grottos that are home to thousands of seabirds including guillemots and razorbills—and daring sheep that graze on the edges. We’ll also visit Borðoy Island where we meet with locals and peruse a shop of handmade woolen goods.
On Eysturoy Island, visit an artist’s studio and enjoy coastal hikes, including the classic Saksun to Tjørnuvík and another that takes us up Eiðiskollur for panoramas of two towering sea stacks, Risin and Kellingin. One evening, we’ll have a cultural night complete with local cuisine and Faroese dance and song.
Our final hike brings us up to the ancient settlement of Kirkjubøur, where we’ll stop in for tea at an 11th century farmhouse. In Tórshavn, the cozy capital, we explore the Old Town, with its turf-roofed buildings and 16th century Sanskin fortress, and gather for our Farewell Dinner. Depart on Day 8 via Sørvágur.
Accommodations
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
What the Trip is Like
This trip is rated Level 4, Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. You will need to be comfortable hiking 4.5 miles a day, being on your feet for up to 5 hours a day, and hiking on uneven surfaces including downhill over loose rocks. You will need to be able to keep up with the moderate but steady pace of the group as there are no alternative hiking options available. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.
Average Hiking Day
Review Trip Level Details
Average Hiking Day
- 3 miles
- 3 hours
- 1,000-1,200 feet gain/loss
- Day 6: 4.5 miles, 4 hours, and 1,700 feet gain/loss
Trails are mostly grassy, and with the frequent rain, they can be muddy and slippery. There are sections with jagged rock, and very steep ascents and descents, often without defined trails. The Faroe Islands lack trees, so trails are often exposed and there can be occasional wind gusts. We cross ametal bridge on the island of Mykines, the bridge length is about 120 feet and it is 90 feet above the ocean. Some hikes are through boggy terrain, so waterproof gaiters are recommended, but not required. Hiking poles are necessary for the steep, slippery descents.
Temperatures should be in the mid 50s°F during the day and in the 40s°F at night. Weather in the Faroe Islands is always unpredictable, and can provide spectacular and clear days, but rain is very common, so you must bring appropriate rain gear. Even on sunny days, expect strong winds. The weather is a major factor in deciding whether a hike is possible, as strong winds, low clouds, and rain can make exposed hikes too dangerous.
Our accommodations will be in comfortable hotels and in a charming guesthouse while in Gjógv on the island of Eysturoy. Hotel Vagar is extremely simple and isolated with small rooms. Please note that the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Twin beds are often next to each other, but they will have separate bedding. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.
Our lunches are picnic-style or at local restaurants and some dinners are in the home of locals where they will treat us to an authentic experience and share stories. Faroese cuisine is generally simple, and vegetables are not readily available, so vegetarian and vegan options are extremely limited. Vegan options, particularly, may not always be available. Gluten and dairy are also expected at every meal. We'll have the chance to sample a lot of traditional food, including fresh fish and beer.
Our van will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need for the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day).
Client Testimonials
"A fantastic hiking/cultural experience in a uniquely beautiful island group!"
Anne C.
Altamonte Springs, FL
"This was a very special trip because the Faroes are so remote and less visited than most European countries. The intricacies of Danish, Norwegian, and Faroese history and culture are fascinating. We did so much more than hike on this trip."
Brenda M.
Anchorage, AK
"Skye's skill in identifying places and people ensured a wonderful balance of hiking, cultural experiences, and time in the homes of Faroese people. We had access to very unique places and met people who added their personal perspectives to life in the Faroes."
Eleanor H.
West Montrose, Ontario
"I've wanted to hike in the Faroe Islands for more than 20 years and was glad that Wilderness offered the trip. There was spectacular scenery, great accommodations, and a guide who cared about our experiences—in towns, beautiful churches, and the arts. We had two gatherings in private homes and the Faroese were so welcoming. I would highly recommend the trip to anyone."
Gay T.
Fort Myers, FL
"Wow --what a spectacular destination! Stunning cliff tops, lush valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and fifty shades of green! Add in delicious food, interesting cultural activities, and unique interaction with locals and this tour is a must!"
Jo L.
Santa Barbara, CA
"The hiking was excellent, but I really enjoyed the home visits also. It was a unique way to experience local culture."
Julie S.
Emporia, KS
"A great trip with enormous value added by guides—they knew everything about the Faroes and took us so many interesting places, in addition to leading us on a wonderful variety of super fun hikes. We had considered independent travel, which is our usual approach, but are so glad we went with WT. We could never have put together a trip half as good on our own."
Lee F.
Chicago, IL
"This trip was wonderful. The islands are stunning, with incredibly dramatic scenery and weather. The birds, especially the puffins and oystercatchers, were amazing. The hikes were lovely, not too strenuous and appropriate for the group traveling."
Linda K.
Saratoga Springs, NY
"One of the best trips I've been on. The Faroes are magnificent to behold, the hiking was fabulous, and the views were jaw dropping stupendous."
Lynne R.
Larkspur, CA
"My trip to the Faroe Islands was truly unforgettable, thanks to Wilderness Travel and our incredible guides. The experience was enriched beyond measure by their deep knowledge and passion for the islands, which brought the magic of the Faroe Islands to life. Without their expert guidance, the journey would have paled in comparison to the adventure we had. I now have a newfound love and affinity for these enchanting isles, which have left an indelible mark on my heart."
Margaux B.
Naples, FL
"Loved the home visits with locals for tea, post-hike snacks, lunch and dinner. Unique experiences!"
Mary C.
Earlham, IA
"Well done! Well balanced between hiking and cultural activities. We really saw a lot of the Faroe Islands."
Pauletta B.
Wilmington, DE
"I enjoyed this trip so much that I almost cried when it was over. With our leader, there was NEVER a dull moment."
Ruby S.
Vancouver, BC
"A well-designed itinerary with a wonderful mix of hiking and cultural experiences. The cultural interactions with local residents were one of the high points of the trip. The hikes were very scenic, historic, and enjoyable."
Sandra C.
Seattle, WA
"This trip was a wonderful introduction to the beauty of the Faroe Islands and the culture and history of the Faroese. The people we met generously offered us their hospitality, culture, history, and personal stories."
Sandy J.
Irvine, CA
"This trip exceeded my expectations—and I had fairly high expectations. Our guide and the itinerary design were excellent."
Sarah L.
Sioux Falls, SD
"I cannot imagine a better, more thorough, more thoughtful, more intentional introduction to the distinctive culture and geography of the Faroe Islands. Each day had multiple highlights of every imaginable sort, from unique local cuisine to historic landmarks, from Faroese with informative stories to hikes with astounding views. This trip checked all the boxes for me."
Trudy H.
Seattle, WA
"This was such a fabulous trip in such a beautiful country. I loved the exercise and I loved so many of the cultural events—visiting the artist, the brewery, the old farmhouses, the churches, Oliver's boat trip. It was just great."
Vicki V.
Baltimore, MD
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Itinerary
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Trip Levels
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.