Eysturoy Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Eysturoy, Faroe Islands with this comprehensive travel guide. From museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and scenic views, find out everything you need to know to plan your trip.


Introduction to Eysturoy

Eysturoy is one of the largest islands in the Faroe Islands, located in the northern part of the archipelago. It is a mountainous island, characterized by rugged coastline, fjords, and green hills. The island’s name means “East Island”, and it is connected to the rest of the Faroe Islands by bridges and tunnels. Eysturoy is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those who want to explore the local culture and history.

List of Places to Visit in Eysturoy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Fuglø Museum - A natural and cultural history museum located in the village of Fuglø.

  2. Skansin - A fortification built in the 1580s to protect against pirates and other enemies. Located in the village of Skálavík.

  3. Nesvík Church - A historic church built in the 13th century, located in the village of Nesvík.

Natural Attractions of Eysturoy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Slættaratindur - The highest mountain in the Faroe Islands, standing at 880 meters (2,887 feet) tall. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. Gjógv - A picturesque village and natural harbor on the northeast coast of Eysturoy. This is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

  3. Funningsfjørður - A beautiful fjord located in the central part of Eysturoy, surrounded by steep mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eysturoy

  1. Skálafjørður - A hiking trail that follows the scenic coastline of the Skálafjørður fjord, starting from the village of Skálavík.

  2. Sornfelli - A challenging hiking trail that leads to the highest peak in Eysturoy, starting from the village of Gjógv.

Best Things to Do in Eysturoy: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale Watching - Take a boat tour to see the magnificent whales that inhabit the waters around Eysturoy.

  2. Horseback Riding - Experience the beauty of Eysturoy on horseback, with tours and trail rides available in various villages on the island.

  3. Sea Kayaking - Explore the coastline and fjords of Eysturoy by sea kayak, taking in its rugged beauty and wild nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eysturoy

Day 1: Arrive in Eysturoy and settle in to your accommodations. Spend the afternoon exploring the village of Gjógv and hiking to the natural harbor.

Day 2: Take a boat tour to see the whales that inhabit the waters around Eysturoy. Afterward, drive to the village of Fuglø and visit the Fuglø Museum to learn about the natural and cultural history of the island.

Day 3: Spend the day hiking to the top of Sornfelli, the highest peak in Eysturoy, starting from the village of Gjógv.

Day 4: Explore the village of Skálavík, taking in the historic fortification of Skansin and hiking the scenic Skálafjørður trail.

Day 5: Take a guided horseback riding tour to explore the beauty of Eysturoy from a unique perspective.

Day 6: Go sea kayaking to explore the rugged coastline and fjords of Eysturoy.

Day 7: Spend the last day relaxing in your accommodations or exploring any places you missed during the week.

Food and Drink Scene of Eysturoy

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Faroe Island Lamb - This tender and flavorful meat is a staple of the Faroese diet, and is often served in stews or roasted with root vegetables.

  2. Ræst kjøt - A traditional Faroese dish made from dried and fermented meat, often served with potatoes and turnips.

  3. Skerpikjøt - Air-dried lamb that is sliced and served as a snack or appetizer.

Local Beverages

  1. Faroese Beer - The Faroe Islands have a growing craft beer scene, with several breweries producing unique and flavorful beers.

  2. Faroese Schnapps - Called “ravnagjógv”, this schnapps is made from local herbs and is a popular after-dinner drink.

Where to Stay in Eysturoy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Gjáargarður Guesthouse - This historic guesthouse is located in the village of Gjógv, and offers cozy rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. Hotel Eysturoy - A modern hotel located in the town of Runavík, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring the island.

What to Buy in Eysturoy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Faroese Woolens - This island produces some of the finest wool in the world, and it is often used to make hats, scarves, and other warm clothing items.

  2. Handcrafted Knives - The Faroe Islands have a strong tradition of knife-making, and local artisans produce unique and beautiful knives that make for a great souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Eysturoy

The people of Eysturoy are proud of their cultural heritage, and many traditional customs and practices are still observed on the island. Visitors can experience local music, dance, and cuisine at festivals and events throughout the year, and can also learn about the history and traditions of the island through museums and other attractions.

Best Time to Visit Eysturoy

The best time to visit Eysturoy is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and there are longer days to enjoy outdoor activities. However, visitors can also enjoy the island’s beauty during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the crowds are smaller and the landscape is still stunning.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eysturoy

Do:

  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Do take care of the natural environment by not littering or damaging the landscape.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t touch or disturb the wildlife.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t underestimate the weather, as it can be unpredictable and change rapidly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eysturoy

Eysturoy is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local community. However, visitors should still exercise basic safety precautions, such as locking valuables in hotel rooms and being cautious when exploring unfamiliar areas.

Health in Eysturoy

The health care system in Eysturoy is modern and efficient, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the island. Visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance before traveling, and should take necessary precautions to protect themselves from common illnesses such as colds and flu.

Getting to Eysturoy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eysturoy

The closest airport to Eysturoy is Vágar Airport, located on the neighboring island of Vágar. From there, visitors can take a bus, ferry, or rental car to Eysturoy.

Bus Stations Near Eysturoy

Eysturoy is well connected by bus, with several stations located throughout the island. Visitors can check the bus timetables online to plan their travel.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Eysturoy by ferry from other islands in the Faroe archipelago.

How to Get Around in Eysturoy

The best way to explore Eysturoy is by car, as it allows visitors to access the island’s many scenic drives and remote locations. Rental cars are available at the airport and other locations on the island. Buses are also available for those who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Eysturoy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Tórshavn - The capital city of the Faroe Islands, located just a short drive or ferry ride from Eysturoy.

  2. Sandoy - A small island in the Faroe archipelago known for its beautiful beaches and scenic drives.

Conclusion

Eysturoy is a stunning destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Faroe Islands. From its historic museums and scenic hikes to its unique cuisine and warm hospitality, this island has something to offer everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to Eysturoy.

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