Overview to the Faroe Islands: Travel Guide and Tourist Information
The clutch of 18 islands that makes up the Faroe Islands is an atmospheric, even primal, place to visit. In winter they’re lashed by violent storms, while during the summer months the sun occasionally breaks through the frequent Atlantic squalls and mists that cling to the land.
The islands themselves are lush little clumps of green turf rising up out of the swirling North Atlantic that surrounds them. Dotted with grass-roofed and brightly colored, iron-clad houses the overall effect is wonderfully picturesque.
When it comes to sights, two churches stand out: the ancient (and tiny) St Olav in Kirkjubour, while nearby the ruin of 14th century Magnus Cathedral is the preeminent historical attraction. However, the grass-roofed wooden affairs, though more humble, are no less attractive.
The islands are a haven for nature lovers, generally, and bird-lovers, especially. Amongst the two million seabirds that cling to the Islands’ craggy cliffs (most notably on the famous ‘bird cliffs’ of Vestmanna) are puffins, gannets and storm petrels.
The compact capital of Torshavn is on the main island of Streymoy. Other islands include Eysturoy, Vagar, Mykines and the dramatic Northern Islands. Sitting and gazing out at the immensity of the ocean, it’s hard not to be seduced by their glorious sense of isolation.