Why You Should Travel the Faroe Islands in a Camper Van
Okay, so you are thinking about travelling to the Faroe Islands or you might already have your flight booked. Now you are exploring your options for accommodation, activities to do and places to see on the islands. Keep reading then as below we lay out the case for an a more authentic mean of experiencing the Faroe Islands – travelling in a camper van.
Most people are drawn to the Faroe Islands by its outstanding and unique natural landscape. A friend or relative might have visited the islands, or you have stumbled upon an article or a picture of the place that caught your attention. Well, you have much to look forward to because not only will you get to experience the vast mountains, the cliffs, the valleys, the surrounding ocean, and the birdlife, you will also get the chance to indulge in the rich culture and cuisine of the 50.000 odd inhabitants of these grass covered rocky islands.
Accommodation and mobility
Two things need to be in place before your arrival: Accommodation and mobility (i.e. a plan for getting around the islands).
On accommodation, there are several good hotels and guesthouse options. Most of these are in the capital Tórshavn and a few scattered around the islands. AirBnb is another good option as the locals have recognised the potential to generate some extra income on their properties and embrace the opportunities that visitors bring to the local economy. There is something for everyone.
But, as you might have noticed, the Faroe Islands is not exactly a cheap spot to visit. The islands are well developed, the economy is strong, and the cost of living is high. A visit to the grocery store is a testament to this. The same is true for accommodation, transport, restaurants, etc. For most people this calls for some consideration when planning their trip.
On mobility, there are a few options as well. The most obvious one is to get a rental car, and there are plenty of reputable providers. However – you guessed it – cars are also an expensive commodity in the Faroe Islands and even budget cars will set you back a non-trivial amount. Still, a rental car is probably a good idea if you have already booked a place to stay and want the freedom to roam the islands as you please.
A cheaper option of getting around the Faroes is by public transport. A network of bus routes connect the villages and islands together. Although public transport is quite reliable, it will also tie you down in terms of flexibility due to scheduling. It is not something we recommend if you want to remain agile during your stay. One exception to this is the local bus network in the capital Tórshavn with has more frequency on the routes and is cost free. It is fully subsidised by the municipality, so just jump onboard.
A third option is to go on guided tours. Here we proudly put up the disclaimer that the people behind this camper van rental site also happen to operate guided tours in the Faroe Islands. Check us out at www.expfae.fo. But beware we are not the typical tour operator you might expect; our carefully drafted tours cover the most spectacular locations in the Faroes, and we deliver powerful experiences you cannot get anywhere else. By offering our services only to smaller groups, we ensure you get immersed in Faroese nature, culture and history while also being shielded from the crowds. With that shameless self-promotion out of the way, guided tours are not a cheap option, but they are certainly convenient, reliable, safe, and come with added local knowledge and expertise.
Renting a camper van - a better alternative?
First, let’s talk about the good stuff. With a camper van, you get both the vehicle and accommodation in one, providing everything you need to get around the islands at your own pace and time, with the added flexibility of getting your nightly rest wherever it is convenient. It functions as a home on wheels during your stay, ensuring flexibility, efficient use of time, and allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience from the minute you wake up in the morning to the moment you fall asleep at night.
Our camper vans are equipped with everything you need to get by comfortably, including proper mattressess to sleep on and heaters to stay warm even during the coldest winter nights.
If you book through us, we also be more than happy to provide recommendations on everything from must-see attractions to camping sites, public restrooms, eateries, swimming pools, and more.
Although renting a camper van in the Faroe Islands isn’t particularly cheap in and of itself, keep in mind that you’re covering both accommodation and mobility for the price of one. Essentially, it’s a 2-in-1 option, and your wallet might just thank you for that.
In fairness, there are a few disadvantages to consider as well, which might or might not carry weight in your decision. If you’re worried about space or comfort, it’s true that a camper van isn’t as spacious or luxurious as a hotel room or an AirBnB rental.
In the case of a bad weather streak, which is not uncommon in the Faroe Islands, a proper roof over one’s head might be preferable for some people although the cosy confines of the camper van provide good refuge on rainy days!
But if you’re someone who enjoys camping or the outdoorsy lifestyle, a camper van will add another dimension to your experience on the islands. It amplifies the feeling of being close to nature and exploring the landscapes of the Faroe Islands no matter the time of year.
We hope to have encouraged you to consider renting a camper van on your trip to the Faroe Islands. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us or learn more by reading our FAQ. We’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
Related Articles
Staying Connected in the Faroe Islands: Wi-Fi and 4G Data Guide
Read our Wi-Fi and 4G data connectivity guide on everything from local SIMs to public Wi-Fi hotspots and portable 4G connection devices.
From Sheep View to Street View: A Camper Van Perspective on the Faroe Islands
What’s all the recent hype about the Faroe Islands? Get an inside scoop on what’s behind the increasing allure of the North Atlantic archipelago.
Driving in the Faroe Islands: What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road
The Faroe Islands might not seem like an obvious choice for a road trip, but you will be surprised just how effective, convenient, and safe it is to travel the islands in a camper van.
The Best Time to Travel to the Faroe Islands
Faroe Islands offer unique experiences year-round. Spring for blooming flowers, summer for long daylight, autumn for foodies, and winter for dramatic landscapes and Northern Lights.
Why You Should Travel the Faroe Islands in a Camper Van
Travelling in a camper van provides a more authentic and immersive way to experience the Faroe Islands, allowing travelers to fully embrace the natural beauty of the islands at their own pace