The Faroe Islands
Denmark
Eighteen volcanic islands in the North Atlantic where sheep outnumber people 2-to-1, connected by sub-sea tunnels and mountain roads above sheer Atlantic cliffs. The sea-stacks of Drangarnir, the turf-roofed villages of Gjógv and Saksun, Gásadalur's waterfall plunging into the ocean, and Tórshavn's coloured wooden capital. A drive that feels like the edge of the world.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Tórshavn
The world's smallest capital, with brightly painted harbour buildings and the Tinganes peninsula, seat of one of the world's oldest parliaments. Extraordinary seafood restaurants have put the Faroes on the culinary map.
- Saksun
Turf-roofed farmhouses above a tidal lagoon reachable only at low tide, enclosed by mountains of immense scale. The single-track road in above vertical drops is a definitive introduction to Faroese driving.
- Gjógv
A village above a basalt slot canyon where fishing boats are winched from the sea. Trails from Gjogv lead into the mountainous interior of Eysturoy with views across the North Atlantic.
- Gásadalur
The Mulafossur waterfall drops from the cliff edge directly into the Atlantic, with Mykines island on the horizon. The village had no road until 2004; a tunnel through the mountain finally connected it.
- Drangarnir
Two basalt sea stacks rising from the ocean, the larger with a natural arch at its base. A 2-hour walk from Lake Sorvagsvatn, the optical-illusion lake that appears to float above the sea.
Where to Eat
- KOKSFine Dining
A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Faroese cuisine in a remote and intimate setting.
- ÁarstovaTraditional Faroese
Located in a historic house, it serves classic Faroese dishes with a modern twist.
- Barbara Fish HouseSeafood
Specializes in fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
- EtikaSushi
The only sushi restaurant in the Faroe Islands, blending Japanese techniques with Faroese ingredients.
Things to Do
- TinganesHistoric Site
The historic district of Tórshavn, home to the Faroese government and charming old buildings.
- National Museum of the Faroe IslandsMuseum
Exhibits on Faroese history, culture, and natural history, including the famous Kirkjubøur chairs.
- KirkjubøurHistoric Site
A historic village featuring medieval ruins, including the Magnus Cathedral and the oldest inhabited wooden house.
- Vestmanna Bird CliffsScenic Viewpoint
Dramatic cliffs home to thousands of seabirds, accessible via boat tours from Vestmanna.
Travel advisory
Mountain roads above the fjords are narrow, frequently shrouded in fog, and exposed to sudden severe Atlantic weather year-round. Some coastal viewpoints require short hikes on unmarked terrain. Check road and weather conditions daily at road.fo before setting out.