Guides 

WHAT TO DO ON A RAINY DAY

Ah, it’s raining in the Faroe Islands—again.  It’s not so much an event as it is a way of life. You’ll hear the locals say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes”—but sometimes, those five minutes turn into a day (or three) of steady drizzle. And somehow, it’s perfect. This isn’t the kind of rain that makes you only want to stay indoors. 

This Atlantic rain transforms everything. It softens the edges of cliffs, waterfalls turn into raging torrents, blurs the horizon, and the mossy hills practically glow under the grey skies. The whole place takes on this quiet, moody beauty that no sunny day could ever compete with. So you have two options, either grab your rain gear and head out for a refreshing shower or seek shelter in one of our many galleries, cafés or home dining experiences.

..This may account for the Faroes’ Satanic climate. It rains so much here that when Icelanders were sent to the Faroes they regarded it, meteorologically, as a hardship posting."

- Legend tells of Barbara, a witch from Múli, who cursed the islands with eternal bad weather (mostly due to her own life hardships).  

You are here!

..and it's raining

  1. First things first, lucky you! 
    This is the perfect occasion to either step way out of your comfort zone or straight into the comfort of a corner. Both are solid options.
  2. Rain sounds different here.
    Sometimes it whispers, sometimes it slaps. Either way, it’s part of the soundtrack. Stop for a second, listen to it on the rooftops, and tell yourself you’re experiencing “authentic atmosphere.” You won’t be lying.
  3. Dress till you're dripping in finesse. 
    What is the weather like? Is it mild or just “mildly offensive”? Then suit up — raincoat, rain pants, good waterproof shoes, wool socks. Umbrellas are strictly decorative here (and very short-lived).
  4. The weather changes faster than your Spotify shuffle.
    Don’t wait for it to “clear up.” It might, or it might not. The trick is to keep going anyway — that’s when the magic sneaks up on you (usually between the drizzle and the sideways rain). A pro tip is to find the sheep; they always know the best shelters. 
  5. Lower your expectations, raise your hood.
    The Faroese weather is part of the experience — unpredictable, poetic, and alive. Plans will change. Hair will flatten. But your photos will look ten times moodier, and everyone back home will assume you’re living in an indie film.
  6. Remember: this is the Faroes.
    If it’s not raining where you are, it probably is five minutes away. So grab that gear, that grin, and go — this is the real deal.

So, what now? Indoors or out?

You’ve got two perfectly good options, and both come with bragging rights. Either way, you win — because here, even doing nothing looks cinematic.
Option one: head out.
Yes, it’s wet. Yes, you’ll probably question your life choices halfway through. But then — just as your socks surrender — the fog lifts, the light hits the cliffs, and suddenly it’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever stood shivering in. Bring gas-station coffee, a cool local beer and a “munnbiti” (Faroese for “snacks”). That’s the Faroe Islands deal: discomfort with a side of awe. Also, have a look at our wide selection of tour providers here

Hiking paths around the islands

Outdoor activities

Option two: stay in.
Find a warm corner, order something that involves caffeine or soup, and watch the weather do its thing. Read, nap, talk to strangers, visit a farm, find a living room concert, go to the cinema, swim (indoors), pick up a book or stare dramatically out the window like you’re in a Nordic noir. Here is also a list of all our museums and galleries around the islands. 

 

It all counts as cultural immersion. Check out our event calendar ‘Whats On’ for any exciting happenings around in the tiny towns. 

Need more inspiration?