Northern Islands Travel Guide
Discover the best hiking trails, activities, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, and transportation options in Northern Islands, Faroe Islands.
- Introduction to Northern Islands
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Islands
- Best Things to Do in Northern Islands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Islands
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Islands
- Where to Stay in Northern Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Islands
- Best Time to Visit Northern Islands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Islands
- Where to Go Next from Northern Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands, a magical archipelago located in the North Atlantic, offer a surreal experience with their dramatic landscapes, seascapes, and Northern lights. The Northern Islands, a cluster of six enchanting islands, is a must-visit for its stunning beauty. The isolation and remoteness of the Northern Islands add to their charm.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Islands
The Northern Islands offer an array of attractions, such as museums, historical landmarks, scenic views, and outdoor adventures.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Nordic House: This stunning building designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto offers exhibitions devoted to Faroese and Nordic culture.
- Kirkjubøargarður: One of the oldest historical sites in the Faroe Islands, Kirkjubøargarður is a medieval farmstead with a church, houses, and ruins that date back to the 11th century.
- Streymoy Island: The largest island in the Faroe Islands, Streymoy Island, is home to Torshavn, the capital, and several museums like the Faroese Museum of Natural History, where visitors can learn about the natural history of the region.
Natural Attractions of Northern Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Villingadalsfjall: The highest mountain in the Northern Islands, Villingadalsfjall, offers an incredible hike to the summit, where you can witness breathtaking views.
- The Arch: A natural arch formation in the cliffs of the remote island of Fugloy offers a unique photo opportunity.
- Sørvágsvatn: The lake offers an excellent spot for hikers to enjoy the scenic views and witness the optical illusion of the lake flowing into the ocean.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Islands
The Northern Islands offer a plethora of hiking and biking trails. Check out the following routes:
- Kalsoy Island: The island is a paradise for hikers with its pristine landscapes. The hike to Kallur Lighthouse is an unforgettable experience.
- Fugloy Island: The island offers challenging trails to hikers with significant elevation gain and stunning views.
- Streymoy Island: Home to many popular hikes, the island offers a variety of trails like the Sornfelli Trail, a challenging 10 km hike, and the Slættaratindur Trail, consisting of walking paths and steep climbs.
Best Things to Do in Northern Islands: Activities and Tours
The Northern Islands offer numerous activities and tours that cater to different interests.
- Whale-watching: Several companies offer guided tours to witness the majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat.
- Fishing: The Faroe Islands offer a unique opportunity to catch fish that thrive in the Atlantic waters.
- Bird-watching: The Northern Islands are home to an abundance of bird species such as puffins, razorbills, and guillemots.
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Islands
Here is a suggested seven-day itinerary for Northern Islands:
| Day 1 | Arrival and check-in |
|---|---|
| Day 2 | Explore Torshavn and Nordic House |
| Day 3 | Hike to Gásadalur waterfall on Vágar Island |
| Day 4 | Visit Kirkjubøargarður and hike to Villingadalsfjall |
| Day 5 | Boat tour to Nólsoy Island |
| Day 6 | Visit the Arch, Sørvágsvatn lake, and Mykines Island |
| Day 7 | Departure |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands offer a unique gastronomic experience with its traditional dishes and local ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
- Ræst: Ræst is a traditional Faroese dish made from fermented lamb or fish.
- Grindarbølla: Grindarbølla is a traditional dish made from pilot whale meat, a controversial ingredient but one deeply ingrained in Faroese culture.
- Skerpikjøt: This traditional dish consists of dried wind-cured mutton that was often eaten by Viking warriors.
Local Beverages
- Sheep-head Beer: This Faroese beer is brewed with smoked sheep heads, uniquely flavored, and is a must-try for beer lovers.
- Malt beverage: Known as the Faroese cola, a malt beverage called Vogar is made from barley, hops, and water, and is a popular drink in the Faroe Islands.
- Spirits: Faroese distilleries, like Okkara, offer liquor made from local ingredients like seaweed.
Where to Stay in Northern Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Northern Islands provide diverse accommodation options, ranging from large resorts to quaint guesthouses and hostels catering to a variety of budgets.
- Gjáargarður Guesthouse: Located on the island of Klaksvik, Gjáargarður Guesthouse offers travelers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and incredible views.
- Hotel Vagar: Situated near Vagar Island airport, Hotel Vagar offers spacious rooms, a spa, and free shuttle services to the airport.
- Gjógv Guesthouse: Gjógv, located on Eysturoy Island, is a charming village and the guesthouse offers quaint rooms with stunning views of the valley and the sea.
What to Buy in Northern Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The Faroe Islands offer several iconic souvenirs and products that are unique to this region.
- Knitwear: Faroese knitwear is renowned worldwide for its quality and intricate designs.
- Music: Faroese music is unique, raw, and reflective of the region’s rugged landscapes. Bring home CDs of popular local musicians.
- Ceramics: Faroese ceramics are handmade, and each piece is unique with Faroese cultural elements incorporated.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands have a rich cultural heritage, and the Faroese are proud of their traditions and customs. The locals are welcoming and friendly to tourists, but it is essential to respect their norms.
Best Time to Visit Northern Islands
The best time to visit the Northern Islands is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and the attractions are open. However, weather conditions can change suddenly, and it is best to be prepared for all types of weather.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Islands
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and hiking conditions.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the region’s history and culture.
Don’t:
- Take unnecessary risks while hiking or exploring remote areas.
- Disturb or harm wildlife.
- Litter or pollute the pristine environment.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands are generally safe for travelers, and the crime rate is low. However, it is essential to take care while hiking or exploring remote areas, as the weather conditions can change suddenly, and the terrain can be treacherous.
Health in Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands have a modern healthcare system, and emergency healthcare services are available. Despite health risks being low, it is advisable to take out travel insurance before visiting Northern Islands.
Getting to Northern Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Islands
The primary international airport serving the Faroe Islands is Vagar Airport located on Vagar Island. Most of the flights to the Faroe Islands come from Copenhagen, Denmark.
Bus Stations Near Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands have an extensive public bus system, and several companies operate bus services throughout the islands.
Other Options
Ferries connect the Faroe Islands with Denmark, Iceland, and Norway. It is possible to arrive in the Faroe Islands on a cruise ship or by private boat.
How to Get Around in Northern Islands
The Faroe Islands have a reliable public transportation system. Buses are the primary mode of transportation on the islands, and taxi services are available.
Where to Go Next from Northern Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The Faroe Islands offer several nearby destinations to explore, such as:
- Mykines Island: A remote island known for its stunning bird cliffs
- Blue Lagoon of Faroe Islands: A geothermal spa located in the village of Drangarnir
- Vestmanna Sea Cliffs: Stunning rock formations and birdwatching opportunities in the village of Vestmanna
Conclusion
The remoteness and isolation of Northern Islands, Faroe Islands make it a unique and unforgettable destination. The stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, local gastronomy, and warm people make it a must-visit place for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
