Exploring the Scenic Faroe Islands

Located on the island of Borðoy, Klaksvik is the Faroe Island’s second largest town and, thanks to the backdrop of rolling hills, craggy cliffs and a gorgeous bay, one of its most beautiful. This unique town of pretty buildings – including the charming Christianskirkjan Church, traditional farms and busy port – is considered the cultural and commercial hub of the Faroes. The town’s roundabout with a sculpture of a fish hook several meters high emphasises Klaksvik’s importance as a fishing port.

Úti í Grøv, an idyllic spot across the bay, has Viking-era remains and has provided inspiration to many poets and artists over the years. Its trickling streams and fragrant flora ensure it’s the perfect place to admire Klaksvik’s incredible surroundings on a relaxing stroll.

The formerly isolated island of Borðoy is now connected to the mainland by the impressive 6300m long Norðoyatunnilin Tunnel. It now links Klaksvik to Leirvík, a town on the rugged, mountainous island of Eysturoy, which has been identified by Birdlife International as an “Important Bird Area”. The bus ride there to spot Manx Shearwaters, Black Guillemots and other native seabirds in their natural habitat is definitely worth the effort.

Flanked by soaring, serrated mountains and huge cliff faces carved into incredible rocky landscapes, the Leirvíksfjørður & Djúpini straits – which separate Eysturoy and Kalsoy in the Faroe Islands – exhibit a distinctive air of mystery and intrigue.

Revel in the outstanding natural beauty as you cruise gently past the enigmatic shapes which dominate the shores of these stunning waterways; it’s the only way to truly appreciate the marvels of this breathtaking part of the world.

The imposing Vestmanna Cliffs, or Vestmannabjørgini as they're known locally, are one of the Faroe Island's most famous, and most sought-after, sights. 

As you sail the waters along the west coast of Streymoy Island, and the cliffs come into view, you can't help but gaze in wonder at the nature-formed jagged peaks and sheer-drop cliff faces of these grass-smothered rock formations. 

During the summer months, look to the edges of the cliffs - you're sure to spot any number of bird colonies of varying species, such as puffins, guillemots, fulmars and kittewakes.

Scenic cruising by Gásadalur (Goose Valley) on board one of Fred. Olsen’s smaller-sized ships is a chance to see, and get closer to, one of the Faroe Islands’ most famous and photographed scenes. As you sail slowly by, feeling the sea breeze out on deck, look out for the tiny village perched on top of a tall cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean – if you can divert your attention away from the sight of cascading waterfalls below and the surrounding mountains of Vágar, that is.

Mykines is the westernmost of all the Faroe Islands and is popular with birdwatchers due to the plethora of nesting seabirds which perch along the shore. Grab your binoculars and be sure to take your place on deck as you cruise past to hopefully spot species such as gannets, puffins, Arctic terns, razorbills and guillemots.

The Faroese islets of Gáshólmur and Tindhólmur are collections of rugged islands and intriguing rock formations, providing unforgettable views at every turn.

Scenic cruise explorations of each on Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships is a memorable way to marvel at the diversity of the natural wonders on display; as you sail the glassy waters, be on the look-out the iconic Drangarnir ‘rock with the hole’, one of the Faroe Islands’ most famous and photographed landmarks.

The enchanting Faroese island of Hestur (Horse Island) is famed for the variety of bird species which inhabit the craggy landscapes. Take in the dramatic scenery as you sail slowly by the island, and be sure to have your binoculars to hand to spot Atlantic puffins, European storm petrels, black guillemots and much more perched on the edge of huge cliffs and along the shores.

Tórshavn, on Streymoy Island, is the capital city of the Faroe Islands. It's known for its Old Town, Tinganes, and its curious wooden turf-roofed houses dotted across the small, rocky peninsula. Vikings discovered the islands over a thousand years ago, and established the main harbour at Tórshavn. With forts in place to protect it from pirates, it soon became a major trading centre. Many of the city’s ancient buildings are still standing and open to the public.

The Reynagarður Vicarage, built in the mid-1600s and Munkastovan, part of the medieval fort that was built to protect Tórshavn from pirate invasion, await discovery. The striking Tórshavn Cathedral, rebuilt in the 19th century, is another of the city's must-visit attractions. 

Today, Tórshavn is a picturesque town of flagstone streets, elegant buildings, informative museums, theatres and parks. Local boutiques dot the main shopping strip, Niels Finsens Gøta, while the Nordic House cultural centre offers theatre, dance and music performances in a contemporary space.