If you enjoy the freedom of traveling on your own while following a well-prepared schedule, this trip is made for you. Drive at your own pace, hike through breathtaking landscapes, and wander through charming historic villages. With this self-drive and self-hike adventure, you’ll experience the best mix of freedom, guidance, and unforgettable moments.
Arrival at Vágar & Trælanípan Hike
Upon arrival at Vágar Airport, your rental car will be ready and waiting. Your first two nights will be spent at Hotel Vágar, conveniently located just 200 meters from the airport.
If you’re eager to stretch your legs after the journey, we recommend the Trælanípan hike—also known as the Slave Cliff. This popular trail is suitable for both adults and children, taking about 2–3 hours in total. Along the way, you’ll walk beside Lake Sørvágsvatn, often called the lake above the ocean for its striking illusion. Before reaching the cliff peak, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the dramatic coastline, with sights including Trøllkonufingur (the Witch’s Finger) and the Bøsdalafossur waterfall.
A hiking fee of DKK 200 per person is payable on site.
Hike the Old Postman’s Trail to Gásadalur
Today you’ll set out to explore Gásadalur, once one of the most remote villages in the Faroe Islands. Until a tunnel was built in 2004, the villagers relied on the “Old Postman’s Trail” as their only connection to the outside world.
To begin this scenic and historic hike, drive to the valley just west of Bøur, where the trail between Bøur and Gásadalur starts. The walk takes around 3–4 hours in total and can be challenging in places, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the dramatic landscape and the iconic village nestled by the sea.
Saksun, Tjørnuvík & Scenic Village Hike
Today is all about discovering some of the Faroe Islands’ most picturesque villages. Begin in Saksun, a tiny settlement famous for its tranquil seawater lagoon and charming old church. From here, follow the trail that starts just below the historic farmhouse Dúvugarður. This scenic hike connects Saksun with Tjørnuvík, a village set against a dramatic backdrop of steep mountains and a striking black-sand beach.
From Tjørnuvík, you’ll also enjoy an unforgettable view of Risin & Kellingin (the Giant and the Hag), two towering sea stacks steeped in legend. According to folklore, the giant and the witch tried to drag the Faroe Islands to Iceland—but were turned to stone when caught by the sunrise.
The hike takes about 2 hours one way and offers some of the most memorable landscapes in the archipelago. After your hike, continue by car to either Klaksvík or Runavík, where you will spend the next two nights.
Hike from Leirvík to Norðragøta
Today’s adventure takes you on a scenic hike from Leirvík to Norðragøta, following a historic route that once served as one of the main connections between the Northern Islands and the rest of the Faroes.
The trail begins just above the football field in Leirvík and gradually ascends to a panoramic viewpoint. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding villages, and on clear days, you can even use the mounted binoculars to spot the distant Northern Islands.
Although the descent toward Norðragøta may look steep, the path is well-marked and easy to follow. The full hike takes around 3–4 hours, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and history.
Cultural highlight: Norðragøta is one of the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands, with strong ties to Viking heritage. Its historic buildings and charming streets provide a glimpse into traditional Faroese life, making it a culturally rich stop on your hike.
Ferry to Nólsoy & Borðan Lighthouse Hike
Today, you’ll leave your hotel early and drive to Tórshavn to catch the ferry to Nólsoy, a charming island known for its colorful houses and quaint white wooden church by the pier. A small beach near the village is a favorite spot among locals, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
You can choose to explore the village at a leisurely pace, perhaps stopping at a cozy café, or embark on a more adventurous hike to Borðan Lighthouse, one of the world’s most robust lighthouses, built in 1893. Along the way, you’ll pass a historic hiding spot once used by villagers to evade pirates. As you near the lighthouse, sweeping views of the island and surrounding sea reward your efforts. The full hike takes approximately 5–6 hours.
Wildlife highlight: Nólsoy is famous for its rich birdlife, including puffins, which you may be lucky enough to spot before returning to Tórshavn.
Your final two nights will be spent in Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, where charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant local culture await.
Hike from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur & Explore the Capital
After breakfast, enjoy the view of Nólsoy before setting out on a scenic hike from Tórshavn to the historic village of Kirkjubøur. As you ascend, be sure to pause and turn around to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and islands, including Hestur and Koltur.
Along the trail, you’ll pass a stone podium where folk meetings were held from the 19th century until the 1960s, a fascinating glimpse into local history. The hike takes around 2–3 hours and ends in Kirkjubøur, one of the Faroes’ most charming villages. Here, you can explore Saint Olav’s Church, the oldest church still in use in the Faroe Islands dating back to the 12th century, and the ruins of Magnus Cathedral, built around 1300.
For a more relaxed return, you can catch a bus back to Tórshavn. If time allows, spend the rest of the day exploring Tórshavn, the world’s smallest capital. Wander through the historic old town, browse craft and wool shops, enjoy a cozy café, or visit one of the city’s museums to discover artifacts and stories of Faroese culture.
Sandoy Island Hike from Sandur to Søltuvík
On your final day, travel south through the subsea tunnel to Sandoy Island, often called the “Saga Island” for its rich folklore and legends. Known as the flattest island in the Faroe Islands, Sandoy offers serene landscapes that feel a world away from the dramatic ocean waves of the northern islands.
Begin a scenic and easy hike from Sandur to Søltuvík, a round trip of approximately 11 km. Along the way, enjoy peaceful views over Gróthúsvatn Lake, a tranquil contrast to the island’s rugged coastline. From the lookout near Søltuvík, take in the stunning cliffs on Sandoy’s western side, including the impressive 182-meter-high sea stack Oknadalsdrangur.
After your hike, take some time to explore the island by car. Drive through charming villages, admire the quiet landscapes, and soak in the unique atmosphere of Sandoy before returning to Tórshavn for your final night.
Farewell – Heading Home
Your self-exploration adventure comes to an end today. Before departing, you will return your rental car at Vágar Airport. We hope this journey has left you with unforgettable memories of charming villages, breathtaking hikes, and the stunning natural beauty of the Faroe Islands.
We are ready for you whenever you plan to book your trip. You can have a look at the hotels, you can choose from below, or book straight away here.
Book nowsend a special request ›*Renters liability DKK 7.000,-per damage – which can be reduced to DKK 0,- when making an additional insurance (SCDW) at DKK 395,-per rental day.
