PROJECTS 2025

The seventh "Closed for Maintenance, Open for Voluntourism" event will take place from May 1 to May 3, with the following projects scheduled for 2025:

1. Koltur

Koltur might be small, but it is packed with history and natural beauty. The island’s traditional stone walls and pathways are key features of its cultural landscape, shaped by generations of use and Faroese weather.

Through the Closed for Maintenance project, in collaboration with Tjóðsavnið (the National Museum of the Faroe Islands), we’ll work on restoring stone walls and repairing the paths that wind across the island. This will help preserve Koltur’s unique character and make it more accessible for visitors.

Spending time on one of the Faroe Islands’ most distinctive islands is a rare chance to contribute to essential restoration efforts.

2. Nólsoy

When you’re in Tórshavn, the best view is of Nólsoy, the island that protects the capital from the fiercest storms from the sea. But I promise you, being there is even better! In the heart of the island lies Nólsoy village, and from there, the most popular hike is towards the scenic lighthouse. The hike is relatively flat (remember, it’s a Faroe Islander speaking!) but quite a long distance.

This path has already been part of the Closed for Maintenance project but still needs some attention. As a volunteer, you’ll help improve the trail, ensuring more visitors can enjoy this beautiful hike safely and comfortably.

It’s not often you get the chance to work on a project like this on Nólsoy—so make the most of this opportunity to help maintain one of the island’s most cherished routes!

3. Bøur

As a volunteer, you’ll help improve the visitor experience in the charming village of Bøur. This historic village welcomes many visitors throughout the year, and the locals are eager to make exploring the area even better.

Your tasks will include improving access to key spots, such as the sandy beach and the peaceful grove of Viðurbyrgi, located in the heart of the village. This involves setting up clear wayfinding markers, repairing pathways, and improving drainage to prevent damage during heavy rain. The current paths in Viðurbyrgi are in poor condition, and access to the area is challenging, which your work will help address.

This project will enhance visitors' experience and reduce disruption for locals by guiding them more effectively through the village. It will allow them to support the community and preserve this beautiful village.

4. Hvannhagi

This project is all about creating a new pathway that enhances the area around Skótahúsið, a well-loved starting point for the hike to Hvannhagi. The goal is to make the space more inviting for the many visitors, campers, and hikers who pass through, giving them a cozy spot to relax by the river and enjoy the scenery.

Your work as a volunteer will include creating a 60-metre path leading to a small waterfall. The task involves digging out the trail, laying stones, and topping it with gravel. You’ll also help build a simple wooden bridge to cross the river, as well as craft benches to provide a peaceful resting spot near the waterfall.

This project will make a big difference in transforming the area into a more welcoming and enjoyable place for visitors while preserving the natural beauty of this much-loved location.

5. Gøta

As a volunteer, you will help install stone markers leading up to Fransahola, making the site more accessible for visitors. While Fransahola isn’t widely known, it holds a fascinating story from a unique period in Faroese history. Contributing to this project will make this hidden gem more recognizable and more manageable to visit.

We plan to place stone markers leading up to Støðlafjall and mark the route to Fransahola. This route will be less challenging and more accessible, allowing people of varying abilities to participate.

You will also help determine the best route to the cave, as the terrain is rugged. Your efforts will help create a safe and clear pathway, enabling future visitors to experience the cave without difficulty.

This is a fantastic opportunity to preserve Faroese heritage and contribute to a project that will benefit locals and tourists alike.

6. við Gjógv

The plan is to create a pathway from Við Gjónna to Byrgisvegur, providing a clear route for walkers to reach the upper Nasa, where the stairs begin. The grass has been so heavily worn down that it has become muddy, challenging terrain. Once the new path is completed, we aim to prevent further use of the existing "trail" along the gorge.

The current route is in deplorable condition, often muddy and slippery. This has led visitors to climb over fences and walk along the gorge's edge, which is unsafe and problematic.

The new path will help protect the area while offering visitors a safer and more accessible route.

7. Leynar

As a volunteer, you’ll help mend the well-traveled path between Leynar and Kollafjørður. This popular route has become worn over time due to frequent use and weather, making walking less safe and challenging.

Your tasks will include improving drainage, adding gravel, and maintaining the path for future visitors. These efforts will make the route safer and help protect the surrounding landscape from further damage caused by erosion and waterlogging.

This is a chance to contribute to preserving one of the Faroe Islands’ cherished walking routes while enjoying the stunning views along the way. Your work will make a lasting difference for everyone who uses this beautiful path.

8. Skopun

As a volunteer, you’ll help improve the pathway around Norðaravatn in the village of Skopun on Sandoy—a hidden gem that’s not easy to reach without clear wayfinding. While the area is otherwise accessible for most people, the lack of markers and a well-maintained path makes it challenging for visitors to explore.

Your tasks will include placing wayfinders, improving drainage, and adding gravel to ensure a safe and enjoyable walking experience. These efforts will make the area more welcoming and help preserve the natural surroundings by guiding visitors along a designated route.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference in one of Sandoy’s most beautiful spots, ensuring that more people can enjoy this hidden treasure for years to come.

8. Tórshavn

As a volunteer, you’ll improve the iconic village path between Tórshavn and Kirkjubøur, a historic route cherished by locals and visitors alike. While this scenic trail offers stunning views and cultural significance, it requires maintenance to ensure safe and enjoyable access for everyone.

Your tasks will include mending sections of the path by improving drainage, placing signposts to guide hikers, and constructing and deconstructing cairns where needed. These efforts will help preserve the path’s natural beauty while protecting the surrounding environment by encouraging visitors to follow the designated trail.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a lasting impact on one of the Faroe Islands’ most beloved walking routes, ensuring its heritage and accessibility for generations to come.