The Faroe Islands are undoubtedly the perfect destination for families seeking an adventurous escape together.  Over our five-week stay during the autumn season, we had the opportunity to explore so much of these islands with our four children, experiencing the unlimited freedom and tranquility that makes the Faroes so special.  

Visiting these magical islands isn’t your run-of-the-mill family holiday destination with the usual attractions.  But if you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re looking for something a little different.

Something off the beaten track. A true family adventure.

Autumn in the Faroes | Colors of Magic

Top 3 activities | Kid's friendly

Visit a Local Farm at Hanusarstova

A visit to Hanusarstova is an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Harriet and John, the warm and welcoming hosts, love sharing their passion for Faroese farm life.  The kids will have a blast feeding the sheep and meeting other animals like chickens and rabbits.
Just a conveniently short drive from Torshavn (taking a sub-sea tunnel with the first-ever underwater round-a-bout!) your family will get a taste of local life, from learning about sheep farming to eating delicious homemade food. Harriet’s love of animals and John’s animated storytelling will leave you feeling connected to the Faroes on a deeper level. It’s the perfect way to immerse the children in the island’s culture.

Play at Tjornuvik Beach

Tjornuvik is a dream for families. Let the kids roll up their trousers and run along the black sand beach, splashing in the shallow waves while you sit and take in the most amazing views of the ocean.  All four of our children spent hours playing there and didn’t want to leave! The village of Tjornuvik itself is tucked away into the most stunning valley and feels wonderfully remote. And with quiet roads and barely any cars, it’s the perfect spot to explore with the little ones. After the beach, to warm up look for the ‘coffee and waffles’ sign which leads you into a local couple’s cozy living room, which makes for an intimate, authentic experience you’ll never forget!

Take the Kids on a Hike

Autumn hiking in the Faroes is perfect with kids. Many of the trails stay open through October, offering breathtaking views of the islands’ majestic landscapes.  Two of our favourite kid-friendly hikes are the walk around the lake in Eidi on Eysturoy and Trollkonufinger on Vagar.
There is also a well-known hike to Kallur Lighthouse which takes you along dramatic cliffs, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands.  It’s more of a moderate hike with kids, but manageable. You can either use a child carrier for the smaller ones or take your time with children who can manage the walk. It took us approximately one hour to hike up (with children 4-10 years old), but we breezed back down in half that time. Choose this hike on a good weather day, and you’ll be guaranteed a safe journey with a big payoff in scenery.  

The Eidi lake and Trollkonufingur hikes are shorter, flatter, and a lot easier.  The kids will love spotting the ‘Witches Finger’ or playing on one of the most scenic football pitches in the world, as they journey through the hikes, immersing themselves in the Faroese wilderness along the way.

When the Weather Turns | Best Indoor Escapes

Get a taste of local food: For a true taste of the Faroes, head to Katrina Christiansen in Torshavn. Their traditional Sunday lamb roast is an iconic local experience, served in a cozy, 300-year-old house. Over on the island of Vagar, Cafe Fiskastykkid in the village of Sandavagur offers delicious seafood that even the pickiest kids will love.  Our children loved the kid's meals, and Matt had the best salmon of his life here!  With unforgettable food and a kids play area (because you know we all love a kids play area!), it’s a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. 

National Art Gallery (Listasavn Foroya):  The gallery’s exhibitions are full of captivating and interactive works from Faroese artists, both inside the gallery and out in the sculpture garden. There is even a neat arts and crafts table for the kids, perfectly situated in the cafe area, so adults can have a coffee while the kids dive into art projects. It’s the perfect spot to inspire little artists and keep the whole family entertained.

Dine at HAPS:  Their burgers and shakes are local favourites, and it’s the perfect spot for families looking for a fun, casual dining experience. After all, what’s better than a burger, shake, and kids' playroom on a rainy day?

Public Library in Tórshavn: The public library is a cosy refuge with an excellent selection of books and activities for all ages. We had multiple visits here, as they have a fantastic kids' play and reading area on the third floor. Let them choose a story or activity to dive into while you relax with free Wi-Fi or a good book. It’s a calm, warm, quiet space for families to recharge while escaping the elements.

Op Shopping: Check out some unique op shops for handmade Faroese knits (SO many handmade knits!). You’ll find treasures like cosy wool sweaters, perfect for the Faroese climate, or local treasures to take home as souvenirs.

Hunt Down Hot Dogs and Waffles: You can’t come to the Faroe Islands without stopping by an Effo petrol station for a hotdog!  We kept going back for more, they really are that good! And then find a cafe serving waffles with rhubarb jam and cream to complete your iconic Faroese snack session, guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. 

National Museum of the Faroe Islands: Learn about the fascinating and deeply rooted history and culture of the Faroe Islands at the National Museum. It’s an educational, yet fun experience for the whole family. Your ticket also includes access to the open-air museum down the road, which can be visited up to 7 days later.
Visit Breyðvirkið Bakery: This beloved bakery offers the fluffiest buns and sweet treats, all made with love. And we really mean it when we say they are good. Grab a pastry and a coffee (or their famous organic sourdough loaf for the road!) and enjoy their yummy treats—there’s nothing better on a rainy afternoon!

How to prepare | Always have a plan B

Final thoughts | Freedom & Unforgettable

The Faroe Islands offer a truly special experience for families, especially in the autumn. Over our five-week stay, we discovered that the combination of stunning landscapes, safe environments, and endless outdoor adventures make the Faroes an ideal destination for children to explore freely. Whether you’re hiking, chasing waterfalls, or visiting charming villages, there’s always something new to uncover,

Autumn brings fewer tourists, plenty of daylight, and a slower pace that allows families to connect with nature and each other. If you’re looking for unique, off-the-beaten-path adventures, autumn in the Faroe Islands is waiting for you.  

Embrace the beauty of the islands’ unpredictability and rawness, and you’ll create unforgettable memories in this magical destination.