Tórshavn – Kirkjubøur

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Tórshavn – Kirkjubøur - Tórshavn

An easy, beautiful, and accessible bike trip to Kirkjubøur.

The bike trip to Kirkjubøur is one of the most popular cycling routes from Tórshavn. It’s a relatively short ride but offers a bit of everything. The stretch from the town centre up to Velbastaðháls, at an altitude of 190 metres, is quite challenging. However, the effort is well rewarded with breathtaking views over Hestfjørður as you descend towards the beautiful and historic village of Kirkjubøur. On the way back to Tórshavn, it is recommended to take a detour via Velbastaður. If time and energy allow, a side trip to Syðradalur is also an excellent option—a peaceful and scenic ride.

Route facts

Difficulty level: Bike tour for moderately experienced cyclists (level 3)

Max incline: 8%

Distance: 23.5 km

Duration: 2 hours

Max altitude: 256 m

Elevation gain: 215 m

Description of the route

The trip starts in the town centre at Visit Tórshavn and takes you out of the city, passing the old cemetery, the National Hospital, and Sandágerð. After cycling through town, you’ll reach Norðasta Horn, the highest residential area in the Faroe Islands, 150 metres above sea level. Once past Norðasta Horn, you enter a new setting where nature takes over.

The route towards Kirkjubøur leads over Velbastaðháls, which stands 190 metres high. Take note of the small ponds and birdlife on the ridge, as well as the magnificent views west and south towards the islands of Vágar, Koltur, Hestur, and Sandoy. From Velbastaðháls, you will roll downhill for 6 km to Kirkjubøur. Just outside the village, you’ll see Kirkjubøhólmur, an islet where ruins of old houses are still visible.

Upon arrival in Kirkjubøur, you can park your bike at the bus stop and enjoy some time in the historic and charming surroundings. Here, you can visit Ólav’s Church (built around the year 1200), Kirkjubøargarður (home to 17 generations of the same family), and Magnus Cathedral (built around the year 1300).

Saint Ólav´s Church

Faroe Islands oldest church still in use

Streymoy

St. Magnus Cathedral

The medieval archaeological remains at the bishop's seat in Kirkjubø

Streymoy

Roykstovan í Kirkjubø

Farmhouse from year 1100

Streymoy

Inspiration / Alternative routes

If the weather is good and time allows, consider taking a detour to Syðradalur. The distance from Velbastaður to Syðradalur is 7.3 km, but it is a relatively easy ride on mostly flat terrain. This is a beautiful route away from the main roads, where you can truly enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of nature.

Elevation profile

The route's elevation profile shows a steady ascent to around 250 meters, followed by a descent with minor undulations before reaching the starting elevation again.