Situated almost halfway between the north of Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a self-governing group of islands. Technically, they belong to Denmark, but they are very much their own territory with their own proud history and culture.
Splendid Isolation
Their isolated location in the North Atlantic Ocean makes the Faroe Islands an ideal destination for those who just want to get away for a while. Their isolation applies only to their location, however, not to how you’ll be treated when you’re there. The Faroese people have a strong, vibrant community, a proud history and culture and are are very friendly and welcoming to visitors. There are lots of places to explore, especially by hired car. Be careful, though. Driving in some remote regions can be quite hazardous, so make sure you have insurance that covers you for driving in the Faroe Islands.
Getting There and Getting Around
The only practical way of getting to Faroe from the UK is by plane from Aberdeen or Edinburgh to Vagar Airport, in Vagar Island. It’s the only airport in the Faroe Islands. There are good road links from the airport to other Faroese islands via road tunnels, causeways and bridges with a good public bus service available, and there are also car hire services available at the airport.
Torshavn
Torshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands and is situated on the largest Faroese island, Streymoy. It’s a great place to base yourself during your stay, and from which to venture out to other interesting parts of the islands. There are good quality hotels, pubs and restaurants, and they all have a warm, informal and homely character. As with Vagar, there are good bus transport links to destinations on the island as well as ferry services to Denmark and Iceland.
Places to Visit
Here are just a few of the many great locations located throughout the Faroe Islands:
Free Music Concerts
The music shop in Torshavn main street hosts informal concerts of Faroese traditional music every day – completely free. To experience the true culture of the Faroe Islands, make sure you pay the shop a visit.
Risin og Kellingin
Take a trip to Eysturoy Island to see Risin og Kellingin. These are two impressive sea stacks that are worth visiting. Legend has it that Risin was a giant and Kellingen a witch before being turned to stone by the rising sun.
Gjógv
Gjógv, also on Eysturoy, is a lovely village with its natural harbour nestled in a long sea-filled gorge. The area is a terrific place for photographs of the landscape’s famous natural beauty.
Borðoy
This island is famous as an important sea-bird breeding location. Bird watchers arrive at the north and south west regions to see storm petrels and guillemots, but even if bird watching doesn’t appeal, the island is incredibly beautiful and mountainous.
Faroe is a destination with a difference, and a visit to these magical islands will remain in your memory for a lifetime.
This post was written in association with Direct Travel Insurance.