 The Bradt Travel guide is packed with everything you need to know, see and do in the Faroes!
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www.bradt-travelguides.com
or by calling 01753 893444
RRP £13.95 |
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| The Faroes are made of of 18 islands, all but one inhabited, divided into 6 regions. Here we detail the main features and with the excellent road and ferry connections on and between the islands, it is easy to explore them independently. |
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| Southern Streymoy with surrounding islands |
Streymoy is the largest of the Faroe Islands and in the south is Torshavn, one of the smallest capitals in the world. Torshavn, began as the annual Viking meeting place - being virtually in the middle of the Faroes, this is where the summer court was held in order to settle quarrels, discuss matters of importance and to trade. Over the years, it developed and grew – from an ‘official’ town of 554 in 1801, swelling to 5,600 in the 1950’s and today, having more than 16,000 inhabitants. The old centre with its timber houses and narrow passages is wonderfully preserved - many other Nordic timber-built towns of the Middle Ages have been destroyed making this one quite unique.
Torshavn today blends history and culture with all the facilities you would expect from a lively, modern city. Many sightseeing excursions operate from Torshavn and it is port to the ferries that connect almost every island in the Faroes.
South of the capital is Kirkjubour, once the ecclesiastical and cultural centre of the Faroes. This small town has several architectural remains from the Middle Ages as well as some wonderful hiking opportunities.
Nolsoy is an offshore island to the south east of Streymoy and is home to the largest storm petrel colony in the world – plus one tiny village. Hestur is an island to the west, with incredible grottoes that disappear deep into the island. Nearby Koltur has just one farmhouse and is dominated by a steep mountain. |
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| Northern Streymoy |
Beyond Torshavn lies the broad and mountainous part of the main island and one of the most famous sights here is the awesome Vestmanna bird cliffs. A popular way to see the cliffs is by sailing under all 600 metres of them – truly magnificent and what a noise! The highest waterfall in the Faroes, the Fossa, at 140 metres is also a must for any visitor.
The eastern side of the island is less rugged and has its own appeal – peaceful and picturesque villages dot the shore and many examples of traditional architecture can be seen.
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| Eysturoy |
This island boasts the tallest mountain in the Faroes – the Slaettaratindur soars 882 metres and the view from the easily accessible summit is not surprisingly, breathtaking. Two of the quaintest villages in the Faroes are also found here along with idyllic scenery and examples of the islands rich heritage.
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| © Pall Stefansson, Faroes Tourist Board |
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Iceland
