WELCOME TO THE FAROE ISLANDS - YOUR GUIDE BEYOND THE GAMES 

Welcome to the Faroe Islands – and to the 2027 Betri International Island Games.

Whether you are here to compete, coach, volunteer, support your island or simply enjoy the atmosphere, we hope you will find time to experience a little more of our home while you are here.

The Games will take you to towns and villages across the country. Along the way, you will discover dramatic landscapes, welcoming communities, rich traditions and plenty of memorable experiences beyond the sporting venues.

For competition schedules, venues and official Games information, visit the official website.

A SMALL PLACE WITH A LOT TO DISCOVER

The Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands in the North Atlantic, connected by roads, bridges, subsea tunnels, ferries and the occasional helicopter. Distances are short, but every island, village and valley has its own character.

Around 55,000 people live here. Faroese is the national language, although English is widely spoken. During summer, the days are long, giving you plenty of time to explore – even after the day’s competitions have ended.

Want to know more about our nature, people, language and history?

In short

  • 18 islands
  • Around 55,000 inhabitants
  • Faroese is the national language, but English is widely spoken
  • Long summer days
  • Weather can change quickly
  • Nature, villages and venues are often only a short journey apart

Faroese summer weather can bring sunshine, rain, wind and mist – sometimes within the same hour. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket and practical footwear, and check the forecast before heading out.

GETTING AROUND

The Games will take place at venues across the Faroe Islands. Please use the official Games website for information about transport connected to competitions, teams and participants.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

If you are planning your own trip between events, public buses and ferries connect many towns, villages and islands. Several attractions can be reached by public transport, but always check the timetable before setting off – particularly if your journey includes a ferry.

PEDAL PURSUIT

Explore the Faroe Islands on two wheels. Cycle through Kalsoy’s dramatic landscape, follow scenic routes towards Gásadalur, Saksun or Viðareiði, or enjoy the gentler roads of Sandoy.

Remember to make a coffee stop on the road for an authentic experience. Bikes and e-bikes can be rented in different parts of the country, and guided cycling experiences are also available.

YOUR GAMES, YOUR PACE

There is no single way to experience the Faroe Islands. Some visitors want to keep moving, some are ready for a new adventure, and others would rather slow down over coffee, music or a good meal.

Whether you have a full day, a free afternoon or just a few hours between events, here are some ideas to help you make the most of your stay.

Quick Guides for Time Between Events

FOR THOSE WHO LIKE TO KEEP MOVING

Take a hike

Walking is one of the best ways to experience the Faroese landscape. Choose a short village walk, follow an old path between settlements or spend a few hours in the hills.

Routes vary considerably in length, terrain and difficulty. Check the route information and weather conditions before leaving, wear suitable footwear and stay on marked paths.

Take an Atlantic dip

Cool down after the day’s events with a refreshing dip in the North Atlantic. Some towns and villages have designated swimming spots, ladders or easy access to the sea.

Choose a safe location, pay attention to local conditions and avoid swimming alone. If the Atlantic feels a little too fresh, combine your dip with a warm sauna or visit one of the country’s public swimming pools.

Active Experiences

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS

The cliffs, mountains and surrounding ocean turn the Faroe Islands into a natural adventure playground.

Explore the coastline by kayak, take a high-speed RIB tour, try rappelling down a sea cliff or discover the landscape with an experienced local guide. Activities are available in several regions, allowing you to find an experience near your accommodation or the day’s competitions.

Weather and sea conditions may affect outdoor activities, and spaces can be limited during the Games. Book in advance and follow the guidance of your local operator.

Adventurous Experiences

FOR THE CURIOUS

EXPERIENCE FAROESE ROWING

Faroese rowing, or kappróður, is the Faroese national sport – and one of the great spectacles of the Faroese summer.

Experience the races and lively village-festival atmosphere at Varmakelda in Fuglafjørður on 3 July. Crews from across the country will compete in traditional Faroese wooden boats while spectators follow the races from the waterfront.

Staying a little longer? Fjarðastevna takes place in Strendur on 10 July, the day after the Games conclude.

FIND YOUR SUMMER SOUND

Summartónar brings live music to venues across the islands. Concerts can take place in churches, cosy village halls and private homes – or in caves, out at sea and surrounded by the Faroese landscape.

Some concerts are free, while others require a ticket. Check the programme to find a concert close to where you are staying or competing.

MEET FAROESE CULTURE

Visit a local museum, explore Faroese art, wander through an old village or learn how island life has shaped our language, food and traditions.

For a more personal encounter, try Heimablídni – Faroese home hospitality – where local hosts invite visitors into their homes for a meal and a glimpse of everyday life in the islands.

TASTE THE FAROE ISLANDS

Faroese food is shaped by the surrounding ocean, a challenging climate and generations of making the most of what nature provides.

Try fresh seafood, local lamb, home-baked treats or some of the more distinctive fermented specialities. You will find everything from relaxed cafés and harbour-side restaurants to home dining and ambitious Nordic cuisine.

Popular restaurants may be busy during the Games, so booking ahead is recommended.

Culture and Local Experiences

FOR THOSE TAKING IT EASY

SLOW DOWN FOR A WHILE

Not every free moment needs to become an expedition. Take a stroll through a village, enjoy coffee by the harbour, browse Faroese design and knitwear, visit a gallery or simply find somewhere with a view.

If the weather turns, museums, swimming pools, cafés and cultural venues offer plenty of ways to enjoy a quieter afternoon.

Good to know before you go

  • Book popular activities and restaurants in advance
  • Follow marked paths and local guidance
  • Check conditions before hiking or travelling by sea
  • Many places accept cards, and English is widely spoken
  • Opening hours may vary in smaller villages, and many shops are closed on Sundays

TRY A FAROESE ROAD-TRIP CLASSIC

No drive through the Faroe Islands is complete without a petrol-station ice cream.

Stop along the way, choose your favourite combination of flavours and toppings – and decide which one deserves the gold medal. Nearly every town and larger village has somewhere to join this very informal Faroese summer tradition.

Easy-Going Experiences

WHAT’S ON DURING YOUR STAY?

The Games may be the main event, but they will not be the only thing happening.

Summer brings concerts, village festivals, exhibitions and cultural events to communities across the Faroe Islands. Browse our calendar to discover what is happening near you during your stay.

DISCOVER WHAT IS NEARBY

With competitions taking place across the Faroe Islands, you may find yourself closer to a waterfall, historic village, local café or unforgettable view than you think.

Our regional guides bring together attractions, activities, food, culture and practical information from each part of the country. Start with the area where you are staying or attending an event, and see what you can discover nearby.

HELP US TAKE CARE OF OUR HOME

The Faroese landscape is beautiful, but it is also working farmland and home to people, animals and wildlife.

Stay on marked paths, follow local signs, close gates behind you and keep a safe distance from birds and livestock. Conditions can change quickly, so be prepared to change your plans when necessary.

By travelling with care, you help protect the places you have come to experience.