Basic moments
The Faroe Region is an internal autonomy of the Kingdom of Denmark, independently managing almost all issues, excluding the topic of defense and foreign policy. The archipelago includes 18 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. Of the 48 thousand local residents, about 20 thousand live in the capital or in the suburbs.
There are two official languages on the islands - Faroese and Danish. Moreover, the vast majority of residents are native speakers of the Faroese language, which is a mixture of Western Scandinavian dialects and is widely used in almost all spheres of life.
Climate and weather
Faroe islands located in the very center of the warm Gulf Stream, which causes a constant off-season: there are 280 rainy days a year. Despite the fact that the islands seem to have no boundaries to the seasons, the climate is quite mild. In winter, the average monthly temperature ranges from 0 °C to + 4 °C, and in summer - from +11 °C to +17 °C. The rainy season falls in September - January, and then the archipelago is covered with fog, preventing the sun's rays from reaching the surface.
Thanks to the warm sea current, the water on the islands has almost the same temperature - +10 ° C - all year round, which creates all the conditions for the development of fishing.
Nature
Holidays in the Faroe Islands are a holiday in the lap of nature in its original form. Due to frequent strong winds, the islands are mostly treeless; sometimes you can find mountain ash, maple, and conifers. A significant part of the islands' territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows, and mountain ranges.
In their free time, fauna lovers can diversify their vacation on the islands by observing colonies of seabirds, seals, whales, and dolphins.
There are a huge number of sheep in the archipelago. The latter were once brought to the local hills by the Celts. The local endless pastures have attracted the attention of sheep, and today there are two sheep for every local resident.
Attractions
The Faroe Islands are best visited during the summer months, when there is little rainfall and the weather is warm.
The excursion program in the Faroe Islands is varied: visits to the capital Tórshavn, small villages, bird colonies, a boat trip in coastal waters.
The capital of the islands, the city of Tórshavn, lies in a picturesque area. The main part of the city juts out over the fjord, offering stunning views of wild mountains and steep cliffs. It's very quiet here, the only noise is central square and piers, where continuous work is in full swing. Streets far from the center are usually small and cramped.
The main attraction of Tórshavn is the Munkastovan Monastery, built in the 15th century and surrounded by a stone wall. Muncastowan is one of the few buildings that escaped the great fire of 1673. Another building that also survived the fire is the Leighubün royal warehouse.
Curious travelers will be interested in a trip to the Historical Museum, which has in its collection ship models, household items of local residents, fishing gear and agricultural tools from Viking times to the present day, as well as objects of religious value.
After a stroll through Vidarlund Park, you can stop by the Art Museum and admire magnificent examples of sculpture and painting.
There is also an “island of birds” in the Faroe Islands - Fugloy, which received its name for its majestic cliffs inhabited by multi-million colonies of seabirds.
To the north of the settlement of Skarvanes is the beautiful sea cliff Tretlkonufingur (“troll woman’s finger”).
At the end of July (28th–29th) the Faroese celebrate main holiday- St. Olaf's Day. These days, usually reserved locals go on a wild rampage of emotions. The festival is named after Olaf II, who, as King of Norway, introduced Christianity to Scandinavia and began the fight against paganism.
Traditional celebrations include rowing competitions, horse racing, dance and religious processions, and art exhibitions.
Kitchen
The Faroes owe their national menu to the harsh climate of the islands. Traditionally, local dishes consist of meat and fish. Faroese delicacies - sheep's head, whale blubber and skärpikjet (dried lamb) - are a must-try for gourmets. Well, lovers of traditional cuisine will be happy to serve fried lamb in local restaurants. Tourists also have the opportunity to taste puffins (these are birds) exquisitely stuffed with sweet dough and served with sweet berries and potatoes. Rhubarb, which is widely eaten, will also be new to many people.
Alcoholic drinks can officially be consumed on the islands from the age of 18. Light beer is sold everywhere, but strong dark beer, low-alcohol drinks and wine are sold only in state monopoly stores major cities and licensed restaurants.
Lunch at a local restaurant will cost a tourist an average of $30, in higher-level establishments - $45–50, excluding alcohol. Have a snack at local cafe it can be much cheaper.
Hotels
Upon arrival on the islands, you can stay in the capital's three-star hotels "Tórshavn" or "Streim" or in the more comfortable "Hafnia" and "Feroyar". In all hotels, tourists will be offered rooms with private amenities, transfer to/from the airport, free Wi-Fi throughout territories. The cost of living is quite high - from $120, but there are seasonal discounts.
A more budget-friendly option would be guest houses and hostels. The most popular of them are Skansin and Bládýpi, but they need to be booked several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels operating on a bed and breakfast basis. Prices here start at $80 and depend on the time of year.
For travelers who prefer outdoor recreation, there are campsites located in specially designated areas. The Faroe Islands have a very strict attitude towards order, so campers in tents are required to remain clean and thoroughly clean upon departure.
Entertainment and relaxation
There are many varieties of fish in local waters, so fishing is very popular among locals and vacationers. By the way, local law allows you to export any fish longer than 30 cm from the country, which has long been prohibited in most European countries.
The Faroe Islands are interesting for wreck divers: in the local coastal waters you can find sunken ships. Near Nolsoy Island it is interesting to watch the underwater life of seals.
Nightlife lovers can spend time in the capital's Rex or Eclipse clubs. The latter allows visitors no younger than 18, but no older than 25.
Shopping
Of the Faroese souvenirs, the most interesting are the numerous woolen products, ceramic and wooden crafts.
Due to the rather harsh climate, woolen clothing is held in high esteem among the islanders. Here you can always buy a fashionable sweater, gloves or hat at attractive prices.
Most shops are open from 9:00–10:00 to 17:30–18:00. On Friday, many remain open until 19:00. On Saturdays, all retail outlets operate on a reduced schedule - from 9:00 to 12:00, 14:00 or 16:00; on Sundays they are usually closed.
Transport
The Faroe Islands have a developed bus system. route network, ferries run between the islands. The capital has red local buses with four routes, which can reach almost all areas of the city. The waiting interval is half an hour in the morning and daytime; in the evening it increases to one hour. Blue Bygdaleiðir buses are the transport link between the islands. Maps of routes and timetables for passenger transport can be purchased at Steinatún kiosks.
The best way to get to the islands themselves is by plane. The only one international Airport Vagar is located on the island of the same name near the village of Sorvagur. Tourists can rent a car to travel around the islands. In order to rent, you must have an international driver's license, a credit card and be over 20 years old. Rental prices start from $60 per day.
Connection
Standard mobile communications on the islands - GSM. There is also an analogue version, but it has almost been replaced by the digital format.
Local mobile operators are Foroya Tele and Kall P/F. Roaming in their networks is available to subscribers of the main mobile operators in Russia.
Tourists can purchase a SIM card for local mobile communications at Teleshops, hotels, post offices and gas stations.
In the Faroe Islands, there are sufficient numbers of public telephones (they work on credit cards and coins). When calling abroad, you need to dial 00, the national code and the number of the called subscriber.
You can use the Internet in an Internet cafe. Most hotels provide wireless connections on their premises.
Safety
When traveling around the islands, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your property - the crime rate here is extremely low. In order not to spoil your holiday, it is enough not to leave personal belongings unattended, not to take large sums of money with you, to be polite to local residents and not to abuse night walks. If necessary, the police are always ready to help.
If during your trip you need medical assistance, you can rest assured that it will be provided promptly. high level. The central hospital is located in the capital and has an excellent medical base.
Business
Registering a business in the Faroe Islands takes only a few days. The most common forms are the joint stock company, suitable for large companies, and the limited liability company. In order to start your own business here, you need to have a legal address on the islands. Another condition is a resident of the Kingdom of Denmark as one of the participants in the case.
Minimum authorized capital for joint stock company is approximately $85,000, for a limited liability company - about $20,000. For registration you will also need a draft memorandum of association, articles of association and an application.
Foreign companies can enter the Faroese market by opening branches. A resident of the islands or Denmark must also be appointed as the head of the branch.
From the point of view of taxation, business legislation, and accounting standards, the Faroe Islands provide optimal conditions for the development of companies. The legal regulation of business activities is similar to Danish and adheres to European Union standards.
The main business in the archipelago is concentrated in the services sector and the fishing industry.
Local investment websites offer offers for entrepreneurs willing to invest in new ways to develop the fishing industry. At the same time, the Faroese are very interested in high-tech businesses that can offer environmentally friendly solutions for production.
Real estate
Purchasing real estate abroad is rightfully considered one of the most promising and long-term investments. The Faroe Islands may become great place for both temporary and permanent residence. They become especially attractive to people who love comfort and privacy, and who strive for order. Offers on the real estate market are varied - from a small studio apartment to a solid large house. The prices are quite attractive. A house with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large surrounding area will cost approximately $130,000.
However, those who decide to make such a deal should keep in mind that local banks do not provide mortgages for housing in the absence of a residence permit. In addition, local legislation requires appropriate permission from the Ministry of Justice for the acquisition of property by a foreigner.
Traveling to the islands is not a cheap pleasure. The price level here is quite high and is equal to the average European one. However, when leaving the country, tourists can make a VAT refund if they have a receipt from a store operating under the Tax Free system. The corresponding inscriptions are present at the entrance to the retail facility. To qualify for a tax refund, your one-time purchase must exceed $48.
Tipping is not accepted on the islands; the service staff's remuneration is usually already included in the bill.
Fishing is only permitted in certain bodies of water on the basis of a license sold at tourist offices. If a tourist intends to take fishing gear with him from home, then it must be sanitized before arriving on the islands. Instructions for fishermen can be found in tourist brochures. In streams and streams the fishing season is open from May 1 to August 31, in the sea - all year round.
When traveling, you should not forget about the local changing climate. On vacation, it won’t hurt to have warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes for moving through mountainous terrain and trips to the sea.
Vaccination before travel is not required. Telephone emergency service - 112.
Visa information
To obtain a visa, you must contact the consular department of the Danish Embassy in Moscow at the address: Prechistensky Lane, 9.
Anyone wishing to obtain a visa must provide a visa application form, 2 photographs, a foreign passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the requested visa) with a copy, a national passport with a copy, confirmation of a hotel reservation, a certificate from the place of work (study), an insurance policy covering everything risks (the amount of insurance coverage should not be less than 30,000 €), a bank account statement or travel checks (at the rate of 50 € for each day of stay).
The Faroe Islands are a small territory within Denmark located in the North Sea. Faroese means sheep and is so called because until the 19th century the main occupation of the islanders was raising sheep. They were sheared en masse and the wool was sent for export to the metropolis. That is, Denmark. During the colonization of Iceland, Greenland and North America by the Vikings, these islands were a necessary intermediate base where the longships of settlers and traders entered.
Faroe Islands from satellite
The language of the islanders, of whom there are about 50 thousand people, dates back to Old Norse and differs from Danish approximately as Russian differs from Ukrainian. Residents of the Sheep Islands sincerely believe that their basalt volcanic homeland is the remains of the sunken Atlantis. This encourages the population to actively dive in the surrounding waters, although the cold, harsh ocean conditions are little conducive to this. As soon as someone finds a flat stone at the bottom, joyful excitement grows. Yep, they found Atlantis. However, geologists debunk it over and over again, wearily explaining that these are pieces of basalt and nothing more.
Sheep wool continues to be mined on the islands. There are 80 thousand sheep for 50 thousand people, but, of course, this is not the main income of this region. The Faroe Islands have an impressive fishing and merchant fleet; accordingly, they actively fish in the surrounding waters, and also trade fishing licenses. Many more foreign companies register offshore companies here. And in general, the islands have a very impressive income. 45 thousand dollars per capita.
Undeservedly forgotten Russian tourists The area, characterized by a harsh climate, is located at the very edge of the world, but vacationers who have been here admit that for the sake of the amazing landscapes it is worth dropping everything and going on an exciting journey.
A corner lost on the edge of the earth
However, not every person will show where the Faroe Islands are located on the world map. Even though they are part of Europe, most people won't find them on the globe. Such remoteness from civilization benefited the place, lost in the Atlantic Ocean, which has preserved its pristine nature and originality.
Finding the Faroe Islands on a world map is quite difficult, especially for those who have never heard anything about them. Located between Iceland and Great Britain, they are in the North Atlantic. Officially belonging to Denmark, the Faroe Islands are a small state with an area of 1,399 km2. The archipelago consists of 34 municipalities, and the islands are home to more than 100 towns and villages.
Green oasis on our planet
Repeatedly, the Faeroe Islands, which have virtually no trees, have been recognized as the cleanest on the planet. Emerald meadows and unique landscape attract not only brave tourists, but also photographers who capture amazing beauty, which just begs to be featured on magazine covers.
The archipelago, recognized as the most picturesque in the North Atlantic, is a rocky area. The steep banks are steep and very high, but it is the numerous hills that attract travelers and collectors who photograph unusual landscapes.
Descendants of the Vikings
It is known that the first settlements appeared in the territory where the Faroe Islands are now located in the 8th century. Initially, the Scots lived here, but they soon left the region due to raids by Old Scandinavian warriors. For many centuries, the area served as a transit point for the Vikings, who considered that this region was very suitable for them and took root here. Modern inhabitants of the Sheep Islands (and this is how the name of the archipelago is translated) are the descendants of glorious heroes who inherited the will and strong character from their courageous ancestors. The Faroese cherish ancient traditions and lead a unique way of life. They are even proud of their old-fashioned style: instead of lawnmowers, they have sheep, and the men cover the roofs of their houses with turf with green grass.
The population of the Faroe Islands is almost 49 thousand people. These are people who have maintained a good relationship with nature and care about it.
Whose archipelago?
In the 19th century, the lost corner for which Denmark and Norway fought became Danish. After World War II, the islands wanted to gain independence, but the government of the southernmost Scandinavian country granted them partial sovereignty.
So who owns the Faroe Islands? No researcher will give a definite answer to this question. Formally, the Queen of Denmark is considered the head of the archipelago, but all processes taking place on the islands are led by the High Commissioner. In respect of international law The Faroes are not an independent entity. The local parliament (Løgting) consists of 33 deputies who are vested with special powers. Representatives of six political parties decided not to join the European Union.
The Kingdom of Denmark, in whose parliament two representatives from the archipelago sit, helps the islands financially, resolves issues of justice and defense, and the Faroese government independently deals with issues of public policy, except for foreign ones. To this day there is talk of gaining independence from Denmark.
Climate and weather
As noted earlier, not every person accustomed to comfortable holiday conditions can withstand the harsh nature of an exotic place. The weather in the Faroe Islands will not be to everyone's liking. The sun rarely shines here, it often rains heavily, but even in clear weather strong winds blow. Maximum precipitation falls between September and January, but snow is a very rare occurrence in the archipelago.
In summer, the temperature does not rise above 17 o C, and lovers of the sun and warmth will be disappointed with their vacation. Therefore, for those who prefer to soak up the snow-white beaches, it is better to go to the Maldives or Bahamas. The water around the islands does not warm up above 10 o C, and fashionable swimsuits and sunglasses are not useful here.
In winter, the cold reigns, which penetrates to the bones due to high humidity, so at this time tourists do not visit the archipelago, where the weather changes so often.
Administrative center of the islands
Tórshavn, the main port of the archipelago, is the capital of the Faroe Islands, home to about 20 thousand inhabitants. Without visiting her, acquaintance with this amazing region will be incomplete. The most interesting place counts Old city, and tourists admire the cute colored houses that transport you into a real fairy tale.
The administrative center, founded in the 10th century, is located on the island of Streymoy, and here you need to stay at least for a few days. Art galleries, a historical museum, cozy cafes and restaurants, fashion shops - all this will allow you to experience the amazing flavor of the capital of the Faroe Islands.
The most beautiful miraculous landmark of Tórshavn is the luxurious and high waterfall Fossa.
A unique lake on the edge of an abyss
The main attraction of this lost corner is considered to be its virgin nature, which is perfectly preserved due to the harsh climate and remoteness from the civilization of the Faroe Islands (Denmark). High cliffs, emerald fields, endless ocean, gray mists and lacy clouds almost touching the ground leave no one indifferent. Even the most discerning travelers speak with admiration of the landscapes of this wonderful region.
Vagar Island attracts the attention of tourists with an amazing body of water, the beauty of which defies description. Located on a stone platform, it seems to float in the air without falling off the edge of a high cliff. Hanging Lake Sorvagsvatn (Faroe Islands), located above sea level, is a sight that is difficult to forget. Travelers who admire a natural monument only in photographs often think that this is a professional photomontage, and in fact the reservoir lies in different planes from Atlantic Ocean. And only after visiting the attractive region do many understand the uniqueness of this masterpiece.
The clear waters of the lake flow into the ocean through a waterfall hidden in the rocks with the unpronounceable name Bossdalsfossur.
Local Attractions
The Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands, one of which is completely uninhabited. There are no people living on Tindholmur, although scientists suggest that many centuries ago they did live here.
Streymoy Island, which is the largest, is loved by all fishing enthusiasts.
Nolsoy is famous for its huge number of seals.
Sandoy delights tourists with its luxurious landscape: here are the most beautiful sand dunes.
Fugloy, whose name translates as “bird island,” is indeed a favorite of birds. Various representatives of birds settle on high cliffs.
Mycines Island is famous for the fact that only 13 people live on it. This is the quietest corner you can only dream of.
Esture is a picturesque place connected by a bridge to the island of Streymoy. Deep fjords create an unforgettable landscape. Mount Slattaratindur rises here with a height of about 900 meters.
On Rinkusteinar, the main natural attraction is two huge stones rocking on the waves. Local residents believe that the boulders are Viking longships, and once upon a time an evil sorceress transformed warships into the cobblestones.
Kalsoy is an island whose coastline consists of rocky cliffs. All settlements here are connected by numerous underground tunnels. To the north is the famous Katlur Lighthouse.
Historical monuments
Munkastovan Monastery is the oldest architectural monument Faroe Islands. The landmark survived a terrible fire that raged in the city in the 17th century. Munskastovan survived only thanks to the stonework.
Local residents call the historical fortress Skansin the most peaceful on our planet. The defensive structure protected against pirate attacks, and now delights tourists with an excellent panorama that opens from the observation deck.
Diving and fishing
Divers flock here to explore undersea world. Where the Faroe Islands are located, there are several dozen dive points, as well as the only diving center, and even beginners can test their strength here.
Fishing is a real passion of the indigenous population, and many tourists head to the water in the company of locals who offer valuable advice. This is an unforgettable experience and a unique opportunity to see magnificent landscapes. You can go out to sea on a fishing boat and cast a fishing rod where you can never reach from the shore. This is a real adventure that remains in the memory forever.
What else can tourists do?
You can go on a boat tour of the caves and attend a concert of local musicians in the underground kingdom.
Extreme sports enthusiasts who want to tickle their nerves choose scuba diving or kayaking.
Where the Faroe Islands are located, hiking trails are very popular. However, be careful, because in dense fogs you can get lost, falling behind the group, or fall off a steep cliff. There is even an old legend that says that lonely travelers are thrown off the cliff by the so-called hidden inhabitants - huldufolk. Mystical creatures in gray clothes that merge with the stones live in the rocks and are unkindly disposed towards the lost.
In summer, a large number of tourists come to the islands to watch the colorful event and take part in it. At the end of July, the cheerful Olafsöka festival takes place, coinciding with the archipelago's national holiday. Residents dressed in beautiful costumes take to the streets of Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), musicians give concerts, and there is a cheerful atmosphere everywhere.
Heaven's Gate of the Archipelago
In the 60s of the last century, the archipelago was occupied by Britain, and the airport built on the Faroe Islands was used for military purposes. For more than 40 years, the spacious building stood abandoned, and only at the beginning of this century it was modernized: throughput Heaven's Gate now has 400 thousand passengers per year.
Located a few kilometers from the village of Sorvagur, on the island of Vagar (Voar), the airport provides both domestic and charter flights to Europe. In addition, it is connected by helicopter to the entire archipelago.
The building has a waiting room, a medical room, luggage storage, several cafes, and a duty-free shop. You can also rent a car here.
Faroe Islands: how to get there?
Russian tourists dreaming of enjoying the stunning scenery of untouched nature should know that there are no direct flights from Moscow to the archipelago. First you will have to fly with a transfer to Norway or Denmark, and only then get to the only airport on the islands. Despite the remoteness, it is very easy to get to the Faroe Islands from the megacities of Northern Europe: the flight takes only two hours. And there is a ferry between the islands, the services of which you can use, and a helicopter will help you get to the most remote places.
To visit the Faroe Islands, which is an autonomous region, Russians require a special island visa (Schengen is not suitable). Despite the fact that the exotic place officially belongs to Denmark, the islands live by their own laws. To ensure that your trip is not overshadowed by anything, you will have to take care of a visa in advance. Its registration is carried out by authorized visa centers in Moscow, Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Samara and other large cities. The consular fee is approximately 1,500 rubles, but depending on the exchange rate of the Danish krone, its cost may increase. The visa processing time ranges from eight days to two months. If you use the services of a travel agency, its employees will prepare all the documents themselves.
Where to stay?
The Faroe Islands, where time flies unnoticed, provide tourists with comfortable conditions for relaxation. You can stay in three-star hotels offering comfortable rooms, or choose more budget options in hostels and guest houses. Those who like to live in tents will be able to settle in special campsites, but they will have to remove all garbage before leaving. In addition, there are convenient accommodation options for those who come for several days: bed and breakfast hotels.
Those who are planning to travel on their own should book rooms 2-3 months in advance. Prices depend on the tourist season, as well as the time of year. But don’t forget about warm clothes and special shoes for walking in the mountains.
There are many different islands on the planet, some of them were previously the coastline of the mainland, some, due to their compactness, are called an archipelago for convenience. And there is nothing surprising in the fact that the larger islands, like Madagascar or Greenland, or the warm Hawaiian and Antilles islands, are better known. But few people know that the Faroe Islands exist in the world and that this is a European territory. Let's tell you more about them.
More about the islandsThe Faroe Islands are gradually becoming overgrown with tourists, tired of crowded resorts and noisy, polluted cities. These are harsh, secluded and very Beautiful places, attracting even experienced and sophisticated travelers. The islands have been repeatedly recognized as the most unusual and cleanest on the planet for their local beauty. The archipelago is of volcanic origin and includes 18 islands, of which only one is uninhabited, with a total area of 1399 sq km. Main islands: Streymoy, Esturoy, Suduroy, Voar, Sandoy, Bordoy.
The Faroe Islands are part of the islands, but have autonomous governance, except in matters of defense and foreign policy. Discussion of these points requires the approval of the country's leadership. The capital of the archipelago is the city of Tórshavn. According to archaeological finds, the Faroe Islands have been inhabited since about the 9th century, and modern inhabitants are real descendants of the ancient Vikings.
The autonomy is very dependent on the import of products and the quality of the transport network, but residents have been actively developing fishing and sheep breeding for many centuries - these are two huge sources of income. Despite this bias in budget formation, the standard of living on the islands is very high compared to the whole of Europe.
Where are the Faroe Islands?
The little-known archipelago is located in North Atlantic in the Norwegian Sea. The Faroe Islands lie roughly between Iceland and the Scottish Islands.
Weather in the Faroe Islands
The climate of the archipelago is directly related to the Gulf Stream, which is known to be warm. The islands are located in its very center, hence the constant off-season, which means about 280 rainy days a year. Time boundaries seem to be erased; there is no clear division into winter or summer. The climate is very mild: average summer temperatures are +11+17 degrees, and winter temperatures are from 0 to +4 degrees. The rainiest season lasts from September to January, after which comes the time of fog, when the archipelago is covered by a thick cap that practically does not let in the sun. Coastal waters are always the same temperature - +10 degrees, this has a positive effect on the development of fisheries.
Population of the Faroe Islands
The latest census showed that the Faroe Islands are home to about 48.5 thousand inhabitants, of which approximately 20 thousand live in the capital of the archipelago or its suburbs. Most residents of the autonomy in all areas communicate in the rare Faroese language - a mixture of Western Scandinavian dialects, but Danish is also considered the official language. The main religion is Lutheranism.
It is believed that about 98% of all residents are descendants of the first settlers.
Nature of the Faroe Islands
The local landscapes are simply fantastic: many waterfalls, lakes, gorges, fjords and silent cliffs. The islands and cliffs have a basalt base, as well as a classic glacial topography. Every photo taken here is a masterpiece. There are almost no trees on the islands; strong winds often rage here; only occasionally you can see maple, mountain ash or conifers. The islands are covered with peat bogs, meadows, and the snowy mountain peaks attract the eye. The most high mountain islands - Slattaratindur peak, located on the island of Esturoy: its height is 882 meters above sea level.
The Faroe Islands are home to real colonies of seabirds, seals, dolphins and even whales. Animals from afar happily pose and show themselves to tourists.
Faroe Islands - attractions and entertainment
The influx of tourists usually occurs in the calendar summer, when, by rights, there is the least rainfall. The most popular excursion program is sightseeing in the capital Tórshavn. The city itself is beautiful, the main part of it juts out over the fjord, where there is an excellent view of the nearby mountains and wild steep cliffs. The capital's two main attractions are the 15th-century Munkastovan monastery and the royal warehouses of Leighubün. Curious tourists are welcome at the Historical Museum, cultural heritage collected at the Art Museum, after which you can stroll through the peaceful Vidarlund Park.
The business card is a beautiful thing hanging over the ocean. If you wish, you can also visit small lonely villages or a bird market, take a walk along the water along the shore or admire the bird island of Fugloy, on the rocks of which a multimillion-dollar colony of sea birds has formed. To the north of the village of Skarvanes, a sea cliff has formed with the interesting name Tretlkonufingur, translated as “troll woman’s finger”.
One of the famous entertainments of the Faroe Islands is St. Olaf's Day, which is celebrated at the very end of July. It is dedicated to the Norwegian king who brought Christianity to Scandinavia. This is a major sports festival, which consists of horse racing and rowing competitions, residents organize dances and religious processions, and organize art exhibitions.
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Faroe Islands cuisine
A kind of reflection of the harsh climate, but still traditional dishes of the variety of fish and meat are incredibly tasty and interesting. Faroese delicacies include: whale fat, dried lamb or sheep's head - there is something for gourmets to see. A popular dish among tourists is puffins (small birds) stuffed with sweet dough and served with berries and potatoes. You will certainly find something new and unusual for yourself in the Koks restaurant at the Feroyar Hotel. Original Scandinavian dishes with incredible presentation and controversial desserts.
There is also traditional food on the archipelago; you can easily find fried lamb or grilled fish on the menu, as well as the cuisine of European countries, the Mediterranean, South America and even Asia. We recommend visiting Restaurant Hereford for an excellent selection of simple steaks, meat and fish in Klaksvik.
It is strict here with alcohol: strong drinks, as well as dark beer, can only be sold by state monopoly stores or licensed restaurants.
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Visitors are especially fond of the various capital hotels, usually three-star ones, which can offer rooms of different classes and comfort. All hotels have good Wi-Fi coverage, breakfast and optional transfer from the airport and back.
Budget options include guest houses and hostels, but in the most popular establishments it is recommended to book rooms at least 2-3 months in advance. In case you do not plan to stay in one place for a long time, there are mini-hotels on the islands in the “bed and breakfast” format, but the prices here directly depend on the tourist season and time of year.
For those who like to spend the night in a tent in nature, there are several campsites on the Faroe Islands, but a strict rule applies to all vacationers: keep clean and remove all rubbish before leaving.
Shopping in the Faroe Islands
When thinking, remember that here, due to the harsh weather, woolen clothing is at a premium. Hats, berets, gloves, fashionable sweaters and scarves made from natural wool can be bought cheaper than in similar European stores.
Fans of arts and crafts willingly make and serve trinkets made of wood or ceramics. The main condition: never bargain anywhere, this is bad manners here.
Transport The capital of the Faroe Islands has a well-established infrastructure. There are four red bus routes here, so you can easily get to almost any part of the city. On average, movement intervals are 30 minutes, which increase in the evening to an hour.
Ferries run between the islands, but there are also blue bus routes, which also form a transport network between the islands. Maps of stops and schedules of all transport in the Faroe Islands can be freely purchased.
How to get to the Faroe Islands?
On the territory of the Danish autonomy there is only one, located on the island of Vagar near the village of Sorvagur. Air travel is the fastest and convenient way get to the little-known northern islands. Regular flights operate from cities in Norway, Iceland and the UK. Further, to travel around the Faroe Islands themselves, tourists often rent a car.
You can get to this strange land by ferry from Denmark, from the city of Hirtshals, from the Scottish Islands, from Iceland, and in the summer even from Bergen, Norway. Of course, if you are the owner of your own yacht or vessel, you can use the coordinates yourself.
Tips for tourists - If you fly directly to Faroe Airport, you will need to provide a special visa rather than a Schengen one.
- Additional tips are not accepted here; all staff remuneration is already included in the bill, usually in the amount of 10%.
- To fish, you need to buy a license for a specific body of water or fishing in the sea, and if you take your fishing rod with you, it must be disinfected according to the instructions before visiting the islands.
- When leaving, you can return VAT on purchases, but only if the purchase was made in a store operating under the Tax Free system and the check amount exceeds $48.
- Be aware of the local climate: you will need warm clothing and spare shoes for walks in the mountains and the coast.
Faroe Islands translated from Faroese means “Sheep Islands”. In English they are called Faroe Islands. They represent a separate island group and are not known to many tourists. Not everyone will immediately answer the question of where the Faroe Islands are on the world map. But nevertheless, they are of interest to travelers, as they represent a corner of untouched nature and peace.
In contact with
Faroese Parliament and Government
About the Faroe Islands, Wikipedia reports that they are located in the northern part of the Atlantic between Iceland and Shetland Islands related to Scotland. It is impossible to give a clear answer to the question of which country the Faroe Islands belong to. On the one hand, they are part of, on the other hand, since 1948, they have independently resolved almost all issues of state policy, except for foreign and defense.
The Faroes have their own legislative body - parliament (Løgting), in which 6 political parties are represented. It has 33 members. And also the executive body is the Landsstüyri and the only court. There are two representatives from the Faroes in the Danish Parliament.
The Faroe Islands, although related to Europe, are not part of the European Union. They are not an independent entity in terms of international law and sign treaties jointly with Denmark. Representatives of individual parties advocate complete independence of the Faroe Islands from Denmark.
Capital, population
The main port of the Faroe Islands, the city of Tórshavn is the capital of the country. It is located on the island of Stromoy (area 373.5 sq. kilometers), in its southeastern part. About 20 thousand people live in the capital.
The entire population of the country has about 50 thousand people. The main language is Faroese, the vast majority of residents are Faroese (about 90%). Behind them come the Danes, Icelanders and the British. Surprisingly, Russians also live here. In 2011 there were 55 people.
Culture, traditions of the Faroe Islands
The main religion is Lutheranism, but there are also Christians. There are many architecturally interesting churches from the Middle Ages.
The distinctive culture of the islands - literature, music, dance - is based on closely intertwined local and Danish traditions. Folklore and jazz festivals are often held in the Faroe Islands.
Oulavsjoka
The main holiday is Oulavsöka, which takes place July 28-29. It is named after Olaf, the saint who introduced Christianity to Norway.
The festival program includes:
Slaughter grind
An integral part of Faroese social culture is the slaughter of black pilot whales. This event mainly takes place in the summer, is not of a commercial nature and organized by communities. Anyone can take part in it, but mostly men do it, and women only watch.
This fishery has historical roots. It is due to the fact that, due to climatic conditions, vegetables and grains grow poorly on the islands, so for centuries the population had to meat and fat are needed, including pilot whales. About 950 heads are harvested annually, which provides 500 tons of meat and fat and accounts for 30% of the total amount of meat products produced on the islands. These products are not exported, are not sold in stores, they are consumed by families.
The fishery has faced criticism and radical action from animal rights and marine conservation groups. They consider it cruel and not caused by a vital necessity. At the same time, local whalers talk about its economic importance.
Butterfly shawls
Sheep farming is developed in the Faroe Islands. They are also famous for the fact that hand-knitting shawls from the wool of local sheep is common here. These products differ from other types of shawls and scarves in a very unusual shape, similar to the shape of a butterfly. This design has practical significance. Thanks to it, the shawl remains on the shoulders while moving, even if it is not tied.
Faroe Islands Climate
Wikipedia says that the climate in the Faroe Islands is temperate maritime. Winters are warm and summers are cool and humid. The warmest month is July with a temperature of 0–4 °C, and the coldest month is January with a temperature of 11–17 °C. Up to 2 thousand mm of precipitation falls per year. It mainly rains, which occurs for about 9 months a year from September to January, and there is frequent fog on the islands.
The archipelago is washed by the Gulf Stream, a warm sea current, due to which the coastal waters have a temperature of +10°C throughout the year. This factor significantly softens the climate and helps create optimal living conditions for marine life, including fish and plankton.
Geography of the Faroe Islands
The area of all Faroe Islands is 1395.74 square meters. kilometers.
They are located at a distance:
- to Copenhagen – 1117 km;
- up to – 675 km;
- to Iceland – 450 km.
In total, the Faroe Islands archipelago consists of 18 large islands, a large number of small and isolated rocks. The largest from the group of northern islands is Bora, which is quite densely populated (about 5 thousand people), and has an area of 95 square meters. kilometers. It is home to the second largest city in the Faroe Islands, Klaksvik.
On the island of Esturoy there is the most high point Faroe - Slattaratindur peak, whose height is 882 meters above sea level. There are fjords along all the islands, so their coastline is very indented. The land surface is mostly rocky, consisting of basalt. Here high slopes alternate with plateaus. They are separated by deep gorges.
Fauna and flora of the Faroe Islands
Due to strong winds that blow constantly, there are few forests here. But strong conifers, maple and ash still grow, and lichens and moss, and heather are also very common.
The fauna of the Faroe Islands is represented by large colonies of Arctic birds – guillemots, harp seal rookeries, and it is also rich in fish - cod, herring, halibut.
A breed of sheep called Faroese lives here, hence the name of the island. Sheep of this breed appeared in the 9th century and became an integral part of the local tradition. Their image is on the Faroese coat of arms. The breed is mainly raised for meat, but, as mentioned above, wool is also used for the production of shawls.
Facts from the history of the Faroe Islands
- Until the 14th century, the Faroe Islands belonged to Norway, then Norway and Denmark owned them jointly. And since 1814 the islands became Danish. Their inhabitants are descended from Scandinavian peoples, and their language is from ancient Norwegian dialects.
- During World War II, the Faroe Islands were taken under British military control. This happened in 1940 after Nazi troops invaded Denmark. After this, the island's elected body Logting achieved the power to pass laws, and the flag of the Faroe Islands received official recognition. In September 1945, the occupation regime was lifted.
- In 1946, among island population a vote was taken, as a result of which parliament announced secession from the Kingdom of Denmark. However, the Danish government did not recognize this decision and temporarily suspended the work of the Faroese parliament. As a result of the parliamentary struggle, an agreement was signed in April 1948, according to which the islands were given sovereignty, with restrictions on the conduct of foreign policy. Two delegates to the Danish Parliament were elected from the local parliament.
- In 1984, the Faroe Islands were declared nuclear weapon free zone. Today it houses a NATO radar complex and a Danish naval base.
Transport in the Faroe Islands
There is sea, road transport and aviation with one airport - Vagar.
Aviation
The national air carrier, Atlantic Airways, provides regular service to:
- Norway – Stavanger and Oslo;
- Denmark - Billun, Aalborg, Copenhagen;
- Iceland - ;
- Great Britain - London, Aberdeen, Shetland.
There is regular helicopter service between Tórshavn and outlying islands with small populations.
Sea communication
Due to its island location, the main mode of transport is sea. Ferries run between the islands. The national sea carrier is Smyril Line. The marine terminal is located in Tórshavn.
Motor transport
In total, the islands have about 500 kilometers of roads. Most of them are mountain serpentine. Since the second half of the twentieth century, large tunnels have been built here, which connect individual settlements with each other. The longest road tunnel is the Noroya tunnel.
How to get to the Faroe Islands
The best way to get to the Faroe Islands is by plane to the capital Tórshavn with a transfer:
- via Denmark from Copenhagen or
- via Norway from Bergen or Stavanger.
In summer, you can travel from Bergen, Norway, to Tórshavn by ferry.
Note! In order to get to the Faroe Islands, Russian citizens will need a visa, which is issued by the Danish Embassy in the consular section. It must be marked “valid for Faroe Islands”.
Sights of the capital Faroe Islands
The city of Tórshavn was founded in the 10th century and named after the god of thunder and lightning - Thor. Tórshavn is a picturesque, thriving city. It is unlike other capitals. Its dignity is not majestic buildings, but the untouched surrounding nature of amazing beauty and a sense of solitude and peace.
Here it is Main Cathedral, which, like most churches on the islands, belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. It was built in 1788 and then rebuilt. It became a cathedral and the bishop's residence in 1990. It preserves such unique items as a baptismal font dating back to the end of the 16th century, and a crucifix from the beginning of the 18th century.
And also in the capital there is a Lutheran Western Church. It is 40.5 meters high and is the tallest building in the entire archipelago. The year of its construction is 1975. The base of the church building is made of basalt stone, on which there is a dome in the form of a pyramid made of glass and copper. In front of the entrance to the church there is a monument to Sigmundur Brestisson, who began the Christianization of the population of the islands, for which he was killed in 1005.
It is also worth paying attention to the ancient monastery Munkastovan, built in the 15th century and surrounded by stone walls. It was completely preserved despite the fire in the 17th century.
Another attraction of the capital is the main island Historical Museum. It presents examples of applied art, objects of worship, rural life, and household utensils that have been preserved since the times of the Vikings. And also marine accessories: fishing gear, navigation tools and ship models.
The main cultural center of Tórshavn is Nordic House. Its roof is covered with peat. It contains: concert hall, conference room, art gallery, library. Here, on summer nights, so-called Faroese evenings are held for tourists.
Faroe Islands attractions
The most mountainous of all the islands Faroe is Kalsa. Its western coast is continuous with steep cliffs. There are four small settlements on the island, which communicate with each other through a system of tunnels. There are many caves and underground galleries here, for which Kalsa is also called Flut, that is, “flute”. In the north of the island there is the Katlur lighthouse, near which you can see picturesque cliffs and a naturally formed sea arch.
To the north of the village of Skarvanes there is a sea rock of original shape Trötlkonufingur, which means "Troll Woman's Finger". It really resembles a graceful long finger.
The least mountainous of the Faroe Islands is Sandoy, on which sand dunes are located. There are two lakes with clear water here. A colony of guillemots has settled in the west. There is a church on the island. A view of Sandoy is featured on the Faroe Islands 1000 kroner note.
On the island Fugloy, or Bird Island, there are cliffs with a height of 450 to 620 meters. They descend from plateaus located on picturesque mountain ranges, and are completely covered with a carpet of Arctic grasses and mosses. These cliffs are home to numerous colonies of seabirds, numbering many millions.
