Hiking in the Faroe Islands Without Paying Fees

The Faroe Islands are a great destination for hiking enthusiasts looking for quiet trails and beautiful landscapes. Whether you enjoy walking at your own pace along streams, crossing basalt plateaus, or passing grazing sheep and nesting birds, there are plenty of options to explore. While some popular trails require guided tours or charge fees, many others remain free and accessible, allowing you to discover the islands on your own.

Below, we’ll provide an overview of the historical paths across the Faroe Islands and explain how you can make the most of these free hiking opportunities for those willing to explore lesser-known routes.

Hiking Through History

All across the Faroe Islands, you’ll find bygdagøtur – old village paths that have been in use since the islands were first settled. These trails connected villages, allowing people to trade, visit one another, or travel to church. In the past, when not every village had its own church, coffins were carried along these paths to reach consecrated burial grounds. Walking these historic routes provides a glimpse into the daily life of early Faroese communities.

The trails are typically marked with stone cairns (varðar in Faroese) used as traditional navigation markers. These stacked stones structures were historically built along trails to guide travelers through the rugged terrain, especially in areas where paths might not be clearly visible. They serve as waypoints, helping hikers stay on track and navigate safely through valleys, over mountains, and between villages. Cairns are particularly valuable in the Faroe Islands’ frequently foggy or overcast weather, where visibility can be limited. Today, they remain an essential part of the hiking experience, preserving a cultural and practical legacy.

Varied Hiking Routes in the Faroe Islands

If you’re planning a hiking adventure in the Faroe Islands, a great resource is the website www.whatson.fo/hiking. This site features a collection of trails across the islands, with filters for trail difficulty, duration, and distance. You can also sort by “summit hikes” or “return hikes” if you prefer a loop that brings you back to your starting point—especially convenient for those traveling by camper van. Each hike includes detailed descriptions, maps, and even a 3D simulation of the route. Best of all, every hike listed on the site is free of hiking fees, making it an excellent tool for planning your journey.

Here’s a curated selection of hiking routes that we’d recommend considering:

Sandoy: A Gentle Coastal Walk

Name: Sandur – Søltuvík
Start: Sandur village
Distance: 5.4 km each way
Terrain: Easy, gravel roads and flat trails
Highlights: This route takes you from the village of Sandur to the island’s west coast. After just over an hour of walking, you’ll reach a stunning viewpoint. Here, steep bird cliffs rise majestically, and free-standing sea stacks—up to 182 meters tall—stand against the powerful Atlantic Ocean. As the trail loops back to the starting point, it’s particularly convenient for camper van travelers.

Vágoy: A More Challenging Adventure

Name: Sandavágur – Slættanes – Gásadalur
Distance: 25 km
Terrain: Rugged and very demanding – only for the highly experienced hikers
Highlights: This hike offers a mix of dramatic landscapes, including deep ravines, lush valleys, and steep mountainsides. It follows the northern coastline of Vágoy, leading westward to the legendary village of Gásadalur. Along the way, you’ll pass spectacular waterfalls, bird cliffs, the second-largest lake in the Faroe Islands, and the abandoned village of Slættanes. This challenging route is perfect for experienced hikers seeking an unforgettable, free hiking experience.

Near Tórshavn: A Sunset Trail
For those staying near the capital, there’s a looping hike across Sundshálsur, Syðradalur and Norðradalur, that begins and ends at Sundshálsur at an elevation of 800 meters. The route is well-maintained, offering fantastic views over the west coast. If you’re visiting in summer, when the days are long, this hike is ideal as an evening trip on a clear, calm day. It might just become one of your most memorable experiences in the Faroes.

Be sure to explore www.whatson.fo/hiking to plan your hikes. For camper van travelers, the ability to filter for hikes that loop back to your starting point is very handy.

Hiking Safely and Responsibly

Before heading out, prepare well and follow safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips:

Plan your route and check weather conditions beforehand.
Avoid hiking in conditions with poor visibility, such as heavy fog or darkness.
Stay on designated paths if possible, to protect nature and avoid getting lost.
Stay a safe distance from cliffs.
Pack appropriately, including proper footwear, weatherproof clothing, snacks, and water. (Read this blog by our sister company for what to wear in the Faroe Islands).
Respect wildlife and local privacy – leave stone cairns as they are.
Keep nature pristine by leaving no trace—always take your rubbish with you.
Follow drone regulations by avoiding flying drones within 150 meters of villages, towns, cities, or main roads, and maintain a 5 km distance from Vágar Airport.

Preparing properly and staying aware of your surroundings is key to a successful hiking experience in the Faroe Islands.

Start Your Faroe Adventure

The Faroe Islands offer a wide variety of hiking opportunities, many of which are free and open to all. Whether you prefer easy walks or challenging routes, there is something for everyone. With a camper van, you can conveniently access these trails and explore at your own pace and time.

Plan your trip and book your camper van at www.campervans.fo today. We’re happy to assist you in your preparations, so please reach out to us if you have any questions.