 The Bradt Travel guide is packed with everything you need to know, see and do in the Faroes!
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| Introducing the Faroe Islands |
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| This island nation is brimming with superlatives - Europe's highest cliffs are found here and are home to some of the greatest concentrations of seabirds in the North Atlantic. The terrain is so mountainous and rugged that wherever you go, the ‘wow’ factor is always present. The islands' coastline of over 1100km also comprises a maze of sounds, fjords and sheltered bays, while inland, the terrain is mountainous, rugged and profoundly beautiful. The capital city, Torshavn, is among the smallest in the world, but has one of the highest standards of living. |
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| Where are the Faroe Islands? |
Situated in the North Atlantic, north-west of Scotland and half way between Iceland and Norway, the Faroes are a self-governing region of Denmark and consist of 18 islands with only one uninhabited. The proud population, of Norse descent, numbers just under 50,000 and although Faroese is the national language, English is widely spoken, especially by younger generations.
The Faroes has its own parliament and flag and trade is governed by special treaties as it is not part of the European Union. |
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| Stunning Scenery |
Of distant volcanic origin, the islands have been sculpted by Ice Age glaciers and eroded by the pounding Atlantic surf to form a landscape that is intensely dramatic. Precipitous cliffs, rising to hundreds of metres in height, are an important breeding ground for many species of seabird – in fact the islands are renowned for their superb bird watching opportunities. Some of the North Atlantic’s largest colonies are home to around 3.5 million gannets, kittiwakes, storm petrels, fulmars, guillemots and puffins.
Elsewhere, quiet fjords and sheltered bays provide safe anchorage for the fishing fleet and an idyllic location for pretty villages, where traditional timber, turf-roofed homes are lovingly maintained. The rugged hills are grazed by a hardy breed of sheep and farming represents an important part of the islanders’ traditional livelihood.
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| Climate |
The weather in the Faroe Islands is changeable – from blue skies and brilliant sunshine to misty rolling fog with showers so any visitor there should be well prepared. The average summer temperature is 11°C (52°F) although it can be higher in sheltered areas and the air is always clean and fresh no matter what the season. The islands are situated in the heart of the Gulf Stream, which helps to temper the climate.
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| © Pall Stefansson, Faroes Tourist Board |
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Iceland
