WINTER IN THE FAROE ISLANDS

If you think the Faroe Islands are all about green summer hikes, calm waterfalls and puffin-spotting, brace yourself—winter here is an entirely different beast. Winter here doesn’t come with the soft-focus sparkle of a postcard. It’s raw, real, and a little unpredictable—like you, showing up here in the off-season. There’s something deeply satisfying about feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a secret, far away from the usual crowds.

Sure, the wind might try to steal your beanie, but that’s all part of the adventure, so pack your windproof gear—it’s going to be an unforgettable ride. 

Welcome to

Winter

During winter the islands become something out of the ordinary where daylight feels like a precious, fleeting gift. From November's misty mornings, the islands trade puffins for northern lights, serene hikes over snow-dusted cliffs, an outdoor sauna with the Atlantic breeze, and huddling up in local homes for stories that stretch back centuries. Winter here isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s for the curious who know that real beauty often reveals itself when nature gets a little unruly.

The four Winter Wonders


Adventure, Hypernation, Family & Romance

 

Wild and Untamed | Winter Adventures in the Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands in Winter? It's not for the faint of heart. This is where nature throws a challenge, and you rise to meet it—whether you're hiking windswept cliffs, bicycling along sway roads, dipping in icy waters, or exploring villages in the winter darkness and stumbling upon the magical green shades of Aurora Borealis. Adventure here comes as an unexpected gift along with some important safety guidelines of course, which makes it unforgettable. So pack your sense of wonder (and maybe a second pair of gloves).

The Art of Slowing Down | Winter Retreats in the Faroes

Sometimes, winter calls for a little less “go” and more “stay.” It is all about finding stillness in nature. The Faroe Islands in Winter offer the perfect excuse to hit pause and do absolutely nothing—on purpose. 

The light might fade early, but the days are full in ways you didn’t expect—whether you're bundled up in a sauna overlooking the Atlantic or standing at the edge of the world, watching waves that could swallow ships crash into ancient cliffs. This is winter, Faroese style, and it's more than just cold—it’s an experience, one that’ll have you rethinking what a winter getaway should be.

There’s nowhere like it…From the people, to the culture, to the breathtaking views around every corner, we definitely experienced the islands magic.

Colin + Meg 
(travelling with their two adorable girls)

Winter Wonders for All Ages | Exploring Winter’s Playgrounds

Family trips on these remote, wind-swept islands are like a winter wonderland—but with more sheep than reindeer. From sledging down gentle hills to gathering around a cosy family dinner table after a day of exploring, the Faroes have a way of making family time feel like a grand adventure. The kids will love the wild landscapes, and you’ll love that they’re tuckered out by sunset (which, let’s be honest, is mid-afternoon). 

Harriet recommends

Top 5 playgrounds in The Faroe Islands

1. Our top playground is in Søldafjørður, a very simple and mostly "homemade" playground put together by the people in the village. It is a bit hidden between the trees in Søldafjørður, but the colourful fence facing the road will help you find it. Extra info: this playground even has a bathroom.

2. The playground in Hvannasund is a solid second place, with its tall and dramatic tower slide and many other fun activities—it also doesn't hurt that the scenery is stunning. 

3. This summer, we discovered a playground in Sørvágur, right by the soccer field—the small stage area will help you find it. It is well hidden between the houses, giving it good shelter from the wind in case of bad weather. 

4. Also, on Vágar island, the school in Giljanes has a fantastic and dramatic playground. The playground has views of small islands in the back, the beautiful church, and even the occasional aeroplane on its way to land at Vágar airport. 

5. In solid fifth place is the playground in the downtown area of Tórshavn. This one has everything your kids will need.

Others worth visiting are the playgrounds in Skálvavík (Sandoy), Bøur (Vágar), Hoyvík and Viðareiði for some great views while the kids are playing. 

The breezes off the North Atlantic Sea are rarely balmy, the snow drives across the peak of Slaettaratindur and forms in three-foot drifts upon which mountain hares, still in their winter coats, scamper… It's a place where you feel small in a large universe.

Harry Pearson, Condé Nast Traveller

Under Northern Lights | A Winter Romance in the Faroes

Nothing says romance quite like huddling together while enjoying the view. The Faroe Islands have a winter magic that can spark a flame—whether it’s under the shimmering northern lights, steaming in an outdoor sauna or while sipping cocoa in a hidden cabin. This is the kind of place where the wind whispers sweet nothings (sometimes loudly), and the quiet nights give you all the time you need to reconnect. Just remember, "let’s share body heat" isn’t a bad pickup line here.

Weather-proof planning

Picture this: you step off the plane in the Faroe Islands, and the wind greets you like an old friend who doesn’t understand personal space. But instead of bracing for disappointment, you find yourself oddly intrigued. The sky is low, the air crisp, and the landscape looks like something straight out of a dream.

The roads are quieter, the views sharper, and the sense of solitude? Surprisingly satisfying. You might spend your days hiking up hills that look like they were made for giants, only to stumble upon a village so tiny you wonder if the locals have a secret handshake. And as the northern lights crack open the sky, you realize you’ve found the ultimate travel flex: you’re here, in the Faroe Islands, at a time when most people are hibernating.

WEATHER TIPS

In the case of Snow

Check the weather updates to see which roads are clear and which areas may be inaccessible. Find a local guide who knows the landscape and can safely accompany you on a picturesque hike or walk. Snow here can be calm one minute and intense the next, so never venture out without a local expert.

In the case of Clear Skies

As always, check the local forecast and seek advice from a local guide. With clear skies, you're all set to enjoy the island’s scenic village paths or take the ferry to more remote islands. A road trip is also ideal, letting you cover a lot of ground for one day.

In the case of Rain

So, it’s raining in the Faroe Islands—again. But here, rain is more than just weather; it brings waterfalls to life and turns the moss a richer green. Now, you have two options: either throw on your rain gear and embrace the fresh, misty atmosphere, or seek shelter in one of our many galleries, cafés or home dining experiences.

In the case of Wind

The Faroe Islands' winds are legendary, umbrellas don’t stand a chance here. Check the weather updates, as gusts can make some routes challenging or even inaccessible. If you're venturing out, make sure to have a local guide who knows how to navigate the conditions safely. And don’t forget windproof gear.

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