The Faroe Islands

Activity Level:

Summary

Just an hour’s flight away from Edinburgh, The Faroes tower out of the Atlantic half way between Shetland and Iceland. In these romantic and dramatic islands, home to just 50,000 people, the weather is as unpredictable and changeable as the scenery. The landscape is green but rugged with steeply sloping hills, long sea-lochs and some of the highest cliffs in Europe. The islands are a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers, with numerous opportunities for bird-watching and botanising.

Our tour will give ample opportunity to see the best of these colourful islands and includes a number of excursions in different parts of the islands to ensure that you see the most interesting sights. These include a guided tour, on foot and by coach, of Tórshavn, one of the smallest and most pleasant capital cities in the world, with an old town narrow passages and tiny black-tarred houses left over from the Middle Ages. We will also explore Kirkjubøur, the cultural and ecclesiastical centre of the Faroes during the Middle Ages; the neighbouring island of Eysturoy, where we visit the towns of Gjógv and Gøta, and take a boat trip to the Vestmanna Cliffs, covered in an array of noisy seabirds of every type. We also offer an authentic and intimate dining experience as we are welcomed into the home of a local farming family, where we enjoy delicious homemade (and home-produced) food and hear fascinating stories about life on a Faroese farm.

Mobility
Please note a good degree of mobility is required to get the most out of this holiday as there are a number of walks over rough, hilly ground. Suitable rainproof clothing and walking boots or shoes are also essential.

Dietary
The Faroese rely heavily on food they produce themselves, which is primarily lamb, seafood and rhubarb (the only fruit that grows there). There is a limited choice for vegetarians if advance notice is given. Vegans seem to be unknown in the Faroes and are unlikely to be catered for.

Excursions