The Faroe Islands

Dramatic Scenery and Nordic Culture

Explore towering cliffs, visit thriving puffin colonies, and experience Faroese hospitality.

Highlights

  • Visit the puffin colonies on Mykines
  • Walk to the iconic Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy
  • Drive through the world’s first subsea roundabout
  • Step back in time at the oldest continuously occupied house in the world at Kirkjubøur
  • Experience heimablídni - the warmth of home hospitality - with a local

The 18 Islands of the Faroes are wild and rugged, peaceful yet dramatic.

Rising dramatically from the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are a breathtaking mix of sharp peaks, sheer cliffs, and untamed beauty. This remote 18-island archipelago lies between Scotland, Iceland, and Norway, yet remains an autonomous territory of Denmark, with a character entirely its own. Windswept, wild, and wonderfully isolated, it is a place where nature reigns supreme and every horizon holds a new adventure.

The Faroe Islands are a land of striking contrasts, and that includes the weather. In a single day you might experience fog and rain, followed by sunshine and rainbows. For nature lovers, this is all part of the charm. Narrow fjords, dramatic sea stacks, and towering rock faces create scenery that takes your breath away, while the grass-blanketed hills and absence of trees mean uninterrupted views from island to island.

Faroe Islands

Although remote, the Faroes offer plenty to enjoy. Walking is one of the most popular activities, with rewarding views at every turn. Some paths can be faint, especially in low cloud, but most main routes are waymarked with cairns and posts. If you are familiar with the Lake District, the terrain will feel similar, only without the crowds. We can recommend self-guided walks or arrange guided hiking days so you can relax and simply enjoy the endless vistas.

The rugged coastline is best explored by boat. Use it to travel between islands or take a dedicated tour to marvel at the world’s largest sea cave or the towering cliffs of Vestmanna. A favourite for many visitors is the boat trip to Mykines, home to nesting puffins, with views of the famous Drangarnir sea stacks and Mulafossur Waterfall along the way. Puffin season runs from late May to the end of July, when these charismatic birds are most active. Another unforgettable option is to take the helicopter to the tiny farm on Stóra Dímun, where the sea cliffs stretch away in every direction.

For a slower-paced day, wander past the grass-roofed government buildings on Tinganes or visit the National Gallery, which showcases Faroese art from the 1830s to the present day. Sample locally brewed ales at the Mikkeller craft bar, enjoy fine dining at award-winning restaurants, or learn about traditional stone printmaking at a lithographic workshop.

Between May and August, the islands host a variety of music festivals, but the highlight of the year is Ólavsøka on 28 and 29 July. This national holiday is both a sporting and cultural celebration that brings the whole country together. If you plan to visit at this time, we can tailor your itinerary so you can make the most of the events and celebrations during your stay.

Best time to go

Despite their northerly location, the Faroes enjoy surprisingly mild temperatures thanks to the tail end of the Gulf Stream which tempers the chill. Strong winds and frequent rainfall are part of daily life, which summer highs usually around 15°C. If you want to escape the heat of summer, then the Faroe Islands is a great option!

Arrive expecting a mix of cloud and rain along with days of sunshine and endless views. Most visitors choose to come between May and August, the driest and warmest months, with July and August being peak season. In summer, the islands’ northern latitude means long days and near-twilight nights, when mountain silhouettes linger against the sky. Between May and August you can expect 16 to 20 hours of daylight.

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Getting to The Faroe Islands

We take care of every detail of your tailor-made holiday, including flights. Our team searches for the best fares, schedules, and departure airports to suit your needs. Should there be any unexpected delays, we’re just a phone call away. Our emergency 24-hour UK helpline connects you directly to a member of our team for immediate support and advice. We offer complete flexibility, so your holiday has no limits; from multi-leg flights to internal flights and stopovers with city-packages, we’ve got it covered.

Getting to The Faroe Islands from UK

The Faroe Islands has one airport, Vágar. Atlantic Airways (the Faroe’s national carrier) have direct flights from Edinburgh twice a week from late March to early December.

There are also fights twice a week from London Gatwick in June, July, and August.

Getting to The Faroe Islands from USA

From the USA or Canada, you can fly to the Faroe Islands via Reykjavik all year round. It’s also possible to fly via other European cities, with daily flights from Copenhagen throughout the year, for example. You can fly into the Faroes with Icelandair, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), and Wideroe.

Getting to The Faroe Islands from elsewhere

From the USA or Canada, you can fly to the Faroe Islands via Reykjavik all year round. It’s also possible to fly via other European cities, with daily flights from Copenhagen throughout the year. You can fly into the Faroes with Icelandair, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), and Wideroe.

If you are departing from outside the UK, US, or Canada, simply get in touch to discuss your holiday plans and we will talk through your flight options

Get in touch

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Where are the Faroe Islands?

The Faroe Islands are a remote archipelago of 18 volcanic islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly halfway between Iceland and Norway. As a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, they are known for dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines, grass-roofed houses, and a unique Nordic culture.

What are the Faroe Islands famous for?

The Faroe Islands are famous for their spectacular natural scenery, including towering sea cliffs, waterfalls, green mountains, and abundant birdlife. Visitors are also drawn to the islands’ rich cultural heritage, picturesque villages, fresh seafood, and excellent opportunities for hiking, photography, and birdwatching.

When is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands?

The best time to visit the Faroe Islands is generally between June and August, when temperatures are milder and daylight hours are at their longest. This period offers ideal conditions for hiking, sightseeing, boat tours, and exploring the islands’ stunning landscapes and coastal communities.

How many days do you need in the Faroe Islands?

Most travellers find that seven to ten days is the ideal amount of time to experience the Faroe Islands. This allows enough time to visit several islands, enjoy scenic drives, explore hiking trails, discover local culture, and take part in guided tours or outdoor activities whilst giving you flexibility to work with the weather.

How do you get to the Faroe Islands?

The Faroe Islands can be reached by both air and sea. Regular flights connect Vágar Airport with major cities across Europe, while ferry services operate from Denmark and Iceland. Flying is the quickest option, while ferries offer a more leisurely travel experience.

Do you need a car in the Faroe Islands?

Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to explore the Faroe Islands. Although public transport and guided tours are available, having your own vehicle provides greater flexibility to visit remote villages, scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and attractions at your own pace.

Are the Faroe Islands expensive?

The Faroe Islands are generally considered more expensive than many European destinations, particularly for accommodation, dining, and transportation. However, visitors can manage costs by booking early, travelling outside peak season, and taking advantage of the many free outdoor attractions and hiking opportunities.

What are the top things to do in the Faroe Islands?

Popular activities include hiking dramatic coastal trails, visiting traditional villages, taking boat trips beneath towering cliffs, spotting wildlife, and exploring cultural attractions. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities, while food lovers can enjoy fresh seafood and authentic Faroese culinary experiences (including fermented lamb) and Heimablídni (home hospitality).

Can you see puffins in the Faroe Islands?

Yes, puffins can be seen in the Faroe Islands during the summer breeding season, typically from May to August. Mykines is the most popular location for puffin spotting, offering visitors the chance to observe large colonies and enjoy unforgettable wildlife photography opportunities.

Can you see the Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands?

The Northern Lights can be seen in the Faroe Islands between September and March when nights are longest. While sightings are not guaranteed, if the skies are clear, the minimal light pollution provides favourable conditions for witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.

Can you island-hop around the Faroe Islands?

Yes, island-hopping is easy thanks to the Faroe Islands’ excellent infrastructure. Many islands are connected by bridges, undersea tunnels, and ferries, allowing visitors to travel between destinations efficiently and explore the diverse landscapes, villages, and attractions found across the archipelago.

Is the Faroe Islands good for hiking?

The Faroe Islands are widely regarded as one of Europe’s top hiking destinations. Trails range from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain routes, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of cliffs, waterfalls, valleys, and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. Due to the challenging terrain and changeable weather, we’d recommend a guide for most mountain routes.

Holidays in The Faroe Islands

Best of the Faroe Islands
Faroe Islands

Best of the Faroe Islands

One week in Tórshavn enjoying the iconic scenery and cultural highlights of the Faroe Islands

From £3,635 per person

Faroe Islands Photography Fortnight
Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands Photography Fortnight

Capture the dramatic scenery of the Faroe Islands with the expert guidance of a professional photographer

from £6,750 per person

Guided Walking in the Faroe Islands
Faroe Islands

Guided Walking in the Faroe Islands

Explore the Faroe Islands with a guide who will lead you up high peaks and along remote village trails

From £3,200 per person

Boats, Walks, and Waterfalls of the Faroes – 7 Night Self-drive
Faroe Islands

Boats, Walks, and Waterfalls of the Faroes – 7 Night Self-drive

Based in three locations, this 7-night self-drive itinerary allows you to explore the best of this archipelago under your own steam.

From £3,500 per person

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