DIPPING IN THE FAROE ISLANDS
Taking a dip in the Faroese sea is as refreshing as it gets—think ice bath, but with better views. Before you cannonball into the Atlantic, here are some tips to make your plunge both safe and memorable. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of jumping into the wild Faroese ocean—it’s equal parts adventure and therapy, with a dash of "what was I thinking?".
Enjoy every chilly, heart-pounding moment!
A dip in the sea, a walk in the drizzle, a peaceful moment in nature, or an invigorating trip on the fjord.
Tips from a Faroese dipper
Before going in
- Check the bathing facilities and familiarize yourself with where the rescue equipment is located. Keep an eye on the weather and check the quality of the bathing water (Municipality).
- Be cautious! The bridge and stairs can be slippery. It’s important to clean the stairs and bridge of algae and glass. Not all coastlines are created equal. Look for places with safe access, no sneaky rocks, and preferably no audience (unless you're into that).
- Check the phone signal. Always have a phone nearby when heading out to the water, in case you need to call for help.
- Dress for Success (or Undress for Bravery). Swimsuit, wetsuit, or birthday suit—it’s your call. Just remember, the water is cold enough to make you question your life choices, so maybe opt for something warmish.
- Bring a Buddy! Always swim with others and stick together. Preferably one who’ll join you in the water, not just film your shivering exit for Instagram.
- Let your body gradually adapt to the cold water. Do not dive in headfirst. Avoid going straight from a sauna into the icy sea. About one minute in the water is enough for your body to cool down without causing a significant spike in blood pressure. Studies show that the greater the temperature difference—from sauna to sea—the higher the risk of a serious blood pressure increase.
- Warm-Up Game Strong: Do a quick jog, some jumping jacks, or a dramatic interpretive dance. Anything to get the blood flowing before you meet the icy embrace of the Atlantic.
- Time It Right: Early mornings are great for peace and quiet, but nothing beats a sunset dip for those dramatic vibes. Either way, keep an eye on the tides—they can be sneaky.
- Know Your Limits: A quick dip is invigorating; staying in too long can lead to the kind of cold that even bragging rights can’t fix.
Tips from a Faroese dipper
After getting out
- After-Dip Essentials. A towel, a thermos of hot tea (or something stronger), and a cozy blanket are non-negotiable. Bonus points if you bring Faroese wool—it’s practically a national superpower.
- Breathe calmly. If your breathing becomes too rapid and you start hyperventilating, it can cause you to lose consciousness in the water. If you feel unwell and need help, time becomes a critical factor, as everyone has a limited period of mobility in cold water.
- Look out for one another. The people you greet before entering the water are the ones you should also keep an eye on while swimming. If someone seems to be struggling, signal immediately. Make noise or wave your arms. However, avoid reaching out to help others if you risk falling in yourself.
- Stay close to the ladder or shallow water. Don’t venture farther than where you can reach the ladder or feel the bottom under your feet with a few strokes. Staying in the water for 10–30 seconds is sufficient. If you remain in for more than 2 minutes, the cold can reduce strength and feeling in your fingers and toes, making it difficult to climb the ladder or stairs.
- Celebrate Accordingly. Once you’re out, embrace the post-dip euphoria. Share your triumph with the puffins, the waves, or anyone who’ll listen.
Good spots for dipping
Shores at Tjørnuvík
Diving site in the village of Tjørnuvík
Streymoy
Sandágerð
The beach in Tórshavn
Tórshavn
Hoyvíksgarður
The old town of Hoyvík is an Open Air Museum in Hoydalar
Streymoy
Nólsoy
Nólsoy is a small island, just 10 square km, located a few km east of the capital city Tórshavn
Streymoy
Syðrugøta
Syðrugøta is a historic village, known for the G! festival and fishing industry
Eysturoy
The Sand Dunes of Sandur
You’ll see great tufts of marram grass growing in the dunes of black basalt sand
Sandoy