Discovering the Best Time to Visit Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands archipelago, located about 650 kilometers off the coast of Western Europe, is a destination like no other. This remote archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean might have been first encountered by Norse explorers or possibly by British or Irish explorers, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding its early exploration history. Characterized by its dramatic landscapes, sheer cliffs, tiny island communities, and ever-changing weather, the Faroe Islands consist of 18 major islands. This Scandinavian gem between Iceland and Norway is a dream destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and adventurers alike. But when is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands?
Choosing the best time to visit Faroe Islands depends on what you want to experience. Whether you’re looking to explore the majestic Mykines Island or visit the capital city of Tórshavn, each season has something unique to offer. The islands’ allure comes with its remote location and a climate that can be unpredictable. Understanding Faroe Islands weather, average temperatures, and seasonal attractions will help you plan a perfect trip to this fascinating destination.
Understanding the Weather in the Faroe Islands
One of the first things you'll notice when you visit the Faroe Islands is the ever-changing weather. The islands are known for experiencing all four seasons in one day. From sunny spells to heavy rain and strong winds, the Faroe Islands weather is as dramatic as the landscapes themselves. It's essential to be prepared for anything when visiting the Faroe Islands, as the North Atlantic Ocean brings unpredictable patterns.
The weather, however, plays a crucial role in determining the best time to visit. Summer months, particularly from mid-June to August, offer the most pleasant conditions with average highs around 13°C (55°F). While far from tropical, the summer season in the Faroe Islands is considered the high season for visitors due to the relatively mild weather, longer days, and a wealth of outdoor activities.
During the winter months, temperatures rarely drop below freezing at sea level, thanks to the tempering effects of the Atlantic Ocean. However, high winds and heavy rain are more frequent, and daylight hours are much shorter. Winter is the time to visit the Faroe Islands for those who dream of catching a glimpse of the northern lights, but it’s worth noting that the weather can be harsher, and many tourist services may be limited.
Summer: The High Season
If you're after the best weather and the most opportunities to explore, the summer months are widely considered the best time to visit Faroe Islands. June through August offers long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding, and bird watching. This period also provides the best opportunities to visit the more remote islands like Mykines and Kalsoy Island.
Bird watchers will be particularly excited to visit the Faroe Islands during the summer, as it’s the best time to see migratory birds, including puffins. The towering cliffs of the islands become a haven for seabirds, making this a fantastic time for those who enjoy nature. Mykines Island, with its grassy slopes and remote villages, is a key spot for bird watching, and taking boat trips to reach these islands is a must for nature enthusiasts.
The high season is also the time when many locals host food festivals and other cultural events. You can visit small villages and towns, such as Vagar Island and Streymoy Island, and experience Faroese hospitality. Although summer is considered the best time to visit for pleasant weather and abundant activities, be mindful that the Faroe Islands can be expensive, especially in the peak season. The cost of accommodation, food, and even car hire tends to increase during this period.
Exploring the Islands at Your Own Pace
One of the joys of a Faroe Islands trip is the ability to explore at your own pace. Renting a car is highly recommended, as it allows you to visit more remote islands and smaller villages without relying on public transport. Car hire is available at Vagar Airport through companies like Atlantic Airways, and the islands are connected by an excellent infrastructure of undersea tunnels and well-maintained roads.
If you're planning a summer trip, exploring the far reaches of the northern islands like Eysturoy Island and Kalsoy Island is made easier with a rental car. Kalsoy, known for its towering cliffs and the famous Kallur Lighthouse, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the archipelago. Meanwhile, the capital city of Tórshavn on Streymoy Island is a great base to begin your Faroe Islands adventure. From here, day tours can take you to other islands, where you’ll be met with remote villages, grassy slopes, and stunning vantage points overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Be sure to pack appropriate gear, such as waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots, as the weather can change rapidly. High winds are common, especially in more exposed areas like the Kallur Lighthouse and the western islands. Despite the unpredictable weather, summer remains the best time to visit Faroe Islands for those who want to explore the outdoors without too many rainy days.
Winter: Chasing the Northern Lights
For those who aren’t deterred by cooler temperatures and shorter days, the winter months offer an entirely different side of the Faroe Islands. Though daylight hours are limited, the winter season provides an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing northern lights, especially on clear nights in the northern islands.
Visiting the Faroe Islands in winter is a great time for photographers, as the low, slanting sunlight creates dramatic contrasts on the landscape. The towering cliffs, small villages, and rocky coastlines take on an almost mystical quality in the winter light. It’s also a time to visit the island's hot tubs and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the more remote locations, with far fewer tourists around compared to the busy summer season.
However, winter trips require careful planning. Many of the smaller islands and attractions may be less accessible due to weather conditions, and some services may be reduced. Rental cars are still available, but it’s essential to check road conditions before setting off, as high winds and heavy rain can create hazardous conditions.
Practical Tips for Your Faroe Islands Trip
Car hire: Renting a car is the best way to explore the Faroe Islands at your own pace. With rental cars, you can easily navigate between the main islands and visit remote villages, as well as vantage points like the Kallur Lighthouse.
Weather preparation: Pack for all four seasons. Even in summer, expect strong winds, heavy rain, and cooler temperatures. Don’t forget waterproof clothing and warm layers, as well as sturdy hiking boots for exploring the islands’ rugged terrain.
Accommodation: The Faroe Islands can be expensive, especially during the high season. Booking accommodation well in advance is recommended, particularly in popular spots like Vagar Island and Streymoy Island.
Food and drink: Alcoholic drinks are pricey due to high taxes, so budget accordingly. Food festivals are a great way to experience Faroese cuisine, especially during the summer months when many locals organize community events.
Getting around: The Faroe Islands have an impressive road network, including undersea tunnels connecting several of the islands. Petrol stations are sparse, especially on more remote islands, so plan your fuel stops in advance.
Conclusion: The Best Time to Visit Faroe Islands
Choosing the best time to visit the Faroe Islands comes down to what you’re looking for. Summer is ideal for those wanting to experience the best weather, long days, and abundant wildlife, while winter offers a quieter, more introspective visit with the possibility of witnessing the northern lights. No matter when you visit, the Faroe Islands' ever-changing weather and dramatic landscapes will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re planning a summer trip to enjoy bird watching on Mykines Island, or you're chasing the northern lights in the winter, the Faroe Islands promise an adventure at every turn. From the small town of Tórshavn to the sheer cliffs of Kalsoy Island, this remote archipelago offers a glimpse into a world where nature rules, and the North Atlantic Ocean shapes life on these breathtaking islands.
