Worthwhile Winter Magic in the Faroe Islands


Have you dreamed of seeing majestic, moody winter scenery on your next vacation? 

Can you imagine viewing a star-filled night sky bright with the Aurora Borealis? 

How about experiencing an authentic Christmas market or horseback riding along a coastal trail with views of sea stacks? 

You might be deterred from winter traveling because of colder temperatures or weather, but the Faroe Islands offer an exceptionally unique opportunity for winter travel. 

We will explore the winter conditions of the Faroe Islands, the pros and cons of visiting in the winter, and activities that make the Faroes a magical winter experience. 



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The Faroe Islands change beautifully with the seasons, offering something unique throughout the year. From endless summer daylight and vibrant festivals to peaceful winter nights beneath the northern lights, each season brings its own kind of magic. At REMÓT Travel, we help you choose the best time to visit based on what you want to experience, whether it is adventure, relaxation, or authentic cultural immersion, and craft a journey that perfectly matches your vision.

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Is It Worth It To Visit the Faroe Islands in Winter?

Is It Worth It To Visit the Faroe Islands in Winter?

The Faroe Islands have much to offer, even in the winter, which begins in November and ends in March. 

Traveling to the Faroe Islands in the winter means: 

  • Picture-perfect, dramatic, and moody landscapes 

  • Opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis 

  • Coastal hiking

  • Breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains 

  • Cozy cultural experiences

  • Visits to local spas

  • Opportunities to try ice dipping 

If these activities give you the travel bug, REMÓT Travel can help you curate the ultimate winter trip to the Faroe Islands. Complete with connections to local Faroese guides, REMÓT Travel plans intimate winter experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions. 



What Winter Is Like in the Faroe Islands


Temperatures on the Faroe Islands tend to be mild, ranging from 37-43℉. When it snows, it doesn’t stick around for long in lower elevations, although it's common on mountain peaks. 

Daylight hours are limited during the winter, especially in December and January, which contain five or six hours of daylight. Additionally, the weather can be intense with high winds and quick shifts between rain and sunshine. 

Winter scenery on the Faroe Islands is characterized as moody and dramatic, with snow-topped mountains, ocean swells, and cozy villages. The low sun creates a blue hue during the twilight hour, and the northern lights are visible on clear nights. Some activities, like popular hiking trails, might be more difficult or unsafe due to snow or high wind, so other options should be explored. 

Pros of Winter in the Faroe Islands

Despite the rainy, windy weather, there are still many positives for visiting during winter, including: 

  • Limited crowds outside of peak tourist season 

  • Opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights 

  • Beautiful, snowy landscapes and frozen waterfalls 

  • A quiet, slower pace of life 

  • Lower expenses 

  • Mild temperatures 

Cons of Winter in the Faroe Islands

Before solidifying your trip, consider the downside of visiting during winter, including: 

  • Unpredictable weather, including snow, high winds, rain, and storms

  • Limited daylight hours

  • Limited services for some attractions and restaurants 

  • Safety restrictions for some activities

  • Possibility of delays, cancellations, or disruptions

  • Challenging driving conditions 

These challenges can be overcome by utilizing the services of REMÓT Travel, which can arrange special activities and sightseeing adventures with local guides.


6 Activities You Can Do in the Faroe Islands During Winter

6 Activities You Can Do in the Faroe Islands During Winter

#1: Take Scenic Drives

REMÓT Travel can organize scenic drives to popular destinations around the islands, such as: 

  • Vágar Island: The island provides views of the legendary Múlafossur waterfall.

  • Streymoy Island: This drive includes Tjørnuvík Road, a winding, adventurous ride to a village with a black sand beach and views of the sea stacks, and Saksun Village.

  • Eysturoy Island: Gjógv boasts a dramatic, natural sea gorge and quaint village scenery. Eiði to Funningur has stunning views of the highest mountains. 

  • Northern Isles: This area has views of the Kallur Lighthouse.

  • Southern areas: Suðuroy contains scenic drives along the southern cliffs.

#2: Explore Like a Local

REMÓT Travel can arrange experiences for exploring the islands in a less touristy manner. Visit sites that allow you to explore like a local, including: 

  • Local cages: Industrial aquaculture cages to farm Atlantic salmon

  • Christmas markets: A cozy, authentic Faroese experience with local crafts, wool products, and seasonal treats, often featuring live music 

  • Christmas tree lighting in Tórshavn: The last Saturday in November, with Santa arriving on a fire engine 

  • Winter jazz festival: Vetrajazz occurs in January and offers a diverse selection of music

  • National Gallery of the Faroe Islands: Listasavn Føroya, an art museum with exhibits of Faroese art

#3: Stargaze

Winter nights on the Faroe Islands are perfect for stargazing. The skies are dark and clear on cold, crisp nights, allowing for optimal views of the night sky and the Northern Lights. 

Ideal viewing spots include elevated locations such as Mont Sornfelli, which is often above the clouds, and remote areas away from light pollution. REMÓT Travel can help identify and arrange ideal locations for stargazing. 



#4: Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is an ideal way to experience the majestic landscapes of the islands. Tours often take between 1.5 to 3 hours on sure-footed Icelandic horses. 

Popular locations for horseback riding tours include: 

  • Tórshavn

  • Vágar

  • Streymoy

Due to unstable weather conditions, it is best to wear warm, waterproof layers and gloves. REMÓT Travel can assist with arranging horseback riding tours through local stables. 

#5: Boat Tours

Boat tours during winter are weather-dependent and operate on a limited schedule. 

Popular boat tours during winter include: 

  • Drangarnir/Vágar: View the popular Drangarnir sea stacks and the Múlafossur waterfall 

  • Cave boat tour to Hester Island: Limited availability for exploration of the world’s largest sea cave, Klæmintsgjógv

  • Nólsoy boat tour: A 2-4 hour tour allowing visitors to experience steep cliffs, sea caves, the southern lighthouse, and wildlife viewing 

Since boat tours during the winter season are limited, allow REMÓT Travel to arrange a boat tour with a local guide.



#6: Hiking

During winter, not all hiking trails can be safely navigated; however, there are still many opportunities to experience the islands while hiking. 

Hiking trails offer dramatic, snowy landscapes, panoramic views, and historic routes. The most popular destinations include: 

  • Trælanípa & Bøsdalafossur (Vágar): A 3.5-mile hike that offers views of the “lake above the ocean” called Sørvágsvatn

  • Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur (Streymoy): A 1.5-mile historic route connecting the capital to the 11th-century village Kirkjubøur

  • Fossá Waterfall (Streymoy): A short hike to the tallest waterfall on the islands 

  • Eiðiskollur (Eysturoy): A 2-3 hour hike providing views of sea stacks and the ocean

Plan to hike during the daylight hours, and be prepared for unexpected weather with waterproof clothing and footwear. The best way to experience hikes safely is with a local guide, which REMÓT Travel can arrange. 



Key Considerations for Visiting the Faroe Islands in Winter

Key Considerations for Visiting the Faroe Islands in Winter

When you travel to the Faroes in the winter, pack and wear appropriate clothing, including: 

  • Base layers, such as thermal, wool tops, and leggings 

  • Mid-layers for insulation, such as wool or fleece sweaters, and a lightweight jacket 

  • Wind and waterproof outer layers, such as durable jackets and waterproof trousers

  • Waterproof shoes that provide traction, such as hiking boots

  • Accessories like warm wool socks, warm hats, waterproof gloves, and scarves 

It is necessary to pack any prescription medications or medical supplies you need, as well as health documents, like insurance cards. 

When navigating the islands, a rental car is recommended if you are comfortable driving in narrow, windy, steep conditions, and snow. Public transportation is available with limited routes. Another alternative is booking guided tours through REMÓT Travel. 

Safety considerations to plan for include: 

  • Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

  • Stick to easy, well-marked hiking paths.

  • Wind is hazardous near cliffs.

  • Avoid night driving.

  • Plan daylight activities.

  • Wear layers.

  • Carry a fully-charged phone and extra snacks. 

  • Tell someone your plans.

When deciding where to stay for the best winter travel and experiences, the capital of Tórshavn or the city of Klaksvík is recommended. These locations offer: 

  • Luxury hotels 

  • Panoramic views

  • Access to amenities 

  • Easy day trips, sightseeing, and access to the other islands 

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Let REMÓT Travel Help Plan and Execute a Worthwhile Winter Trip to the Faroe Islands

Let the experts at REMÓT Travel, a bespoke luxury travel agency in the Faroe Islands, arrange the perfect winter trip to the Faroe Islands. With access to local guides, our team can organize an incredibly unique travel experience. 

From hiking to horseback tours to multiple additional activities, REMÓT Travel has connections to make your adventures memorable and seamless. We do much more beyond booking hotels and basic tours! 

Contact us today to craft a distinctive experience on the Faroe Islands! 

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