Faroe Islands: Faroe Islands Bike Tour
Eight days and seven nights exploring a breathtaking part of the world relatively few others have.
“Authentic, unspoiled, and likely to remain so” – National Geographic Traveller Magazine.
WHY THIS TRIP?
- Unfathomable beauty in every direction (no point in the Faroe Islands is more than three miles from the sea).
- Mesmerizing, unspoiled landscapes and untamed wilderness.
- Quaint, authentic accommodations where you will have the opportunity to try Faroese cuisine, mingle with the locals, and wake up to views of the North Atlantic.
- Quiet, coastal rides that will take you alongside lush valleys, ancient settlements, breathtaking waterfalls, dramatic cliff faces and past grass topped cabins as you meander from one uncrowded village to the next.
ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:
Click here to learn about our difficulty rating system.
Mixed riding surfaces and some hills. Most of the roads are paved.
Daily Distance:
- 1: Intro Ride To Sandavágs Kirkja ~30km.
- 2: Bøur to Tórshavn ~51km.
- 3: Nolsoy Day Trip.
- 4: Tórshavn to Klaksvík ~44km.
- 5: Klaksvik to Gjogv ~45km.
- 6: Gjogv to Gásadalur ~85km.
- 7: Mykines Island Day Trip.
- 8: Goodbyes and Departures.
(Click image to enlarge)
Activity Levels
The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.
This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.
Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.
This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.
The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.
There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.
Start: Hotel Vagar, 6pm day one.
Finish: Hotel Vagar, 9am day eight.
Meal inclusions: Listed for guided trips only, please see dates & pricing section for accurate inclusions per support level.
Please contact us to arrange alternate meeting and departure plans, if necessary.
DAY 1:
Intro Ride To Sandavágs Kirkja ~30km.
Gather this afternoon at at your first hotel for a safety briefing and a fitting session for your bikes. From there, embark on an introductory ride to the captivating Sandavágs Kirkja, nestled in the heart of Sandavágur village. This beautiful church boasts a distinctive scarlet roof and an eye-catching tower with two floors—quadrangular at the bottom and octagonal above. Inside the vibrant church's chancel lies a thirteenth-century runestone discovered in Sandavágur, bearing the inscription: “Orkil Onundarson Eystmaður úr Rogalandi bygdi hendan stað fyrst” (Torkil Onundarson, man of the east from Rogaland, built this place first)." Additionally, remnants of houses dating back to the Viking era have been unearthed in Sandavágur, adding a historical dimension to this picturesque setting. Most of today's ride features gentle terrain, taking you along the edge of Sørvágsvatn Lake – also known as Slave Lake, bordered by prominent seaside cliffs, and boasting a 100 foot waterfall.
Meal Inclusions: Dinner.
Guesthouse Hugo, Sørvágur; or Hotel Vágar, Sørvágur; or The View Hotel, Bøur DAY 2:
Bøur to Tórshavn ~51km.
Today you will ride into Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. Situated at the southern tip of Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn is one of the smallest and most northern capitals in the world. It is named after the Nordic God of Thunder, Thor, with its name translating to 'Thor's harbour'.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Havgrim Seaside Hotel 1948, TórshavnDAY 3:
Nolsoy Day Trip.
Today promises a delightful cycling adventure as you set out for Nolsoy Island, a gem in the Faroe archipelago known for its unspoiled nature, charming puffins, and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Located just 20 minutes by ferry from the capital of Tórshavn, the island is only ten square kilometers, but is home to just over 200 people, over 800 sheep and thousands of migratory birds (the island boasts the largest European storm petrel colony in the world).
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast.
Same lodging.DAY 4:
Tórshavn to Klaksvík ~44km.
Today’s ride takes you into Klaksvík, the second largest town of the Faroe Islands. The town is located on Borðoy - one of the northernmost islands in the Faroe Islands. The origins of Klaksvík trace back to Viking times, yet it wasn't until the 20th century that the district amalgamated, evolving into a substantial and contemporary Faroese town. Over time, Klaksvík emerged as a pivotal cultural and commercial hub, playing a central role not only for the Northern Isles but for the entire Faroe Islands archipelago. The ride from Tórshavn to Klaksvík ensures stunning views along coastal roads and dramatic cliffs, as well as the opportunity to navigate the renowned subsea tunnels of the Faroe Islands, including the Eysturoyartunnilin (The Eysturoy Tunnel, formerly known as Skálafjarðartunnilin). This extensive undersea road tunnel traverses the Tangafjørður sound, linking the islands of Streymoy and Eysturoy.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Hotel Klaksvik, KlaksvikDAY 5:
Klaksvik to Gjogv ~45km.
Your destination today is the remarkable village of Gjogv. Located on the northeast tip of the island of Eysturoy, it’s a settlement at the end of a deep valley with no other villages in sight. Named after a stunning 200-meter-long gorge, it has utilized this picturesque natural setting as a harbor from the sea for centuries. The ravine features a convenient set of stairs from top to bottom. We encourage you to descend and immersing yourself in the captivating sound of the sea.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv, GjogvDAY 6:
Gjogv to Gásadalur ~85km.
Leaving behind the quaint town of Gjogv, begin your journey to picturesque Gásadalur. Nestled on Vágar island, Gásadalur was once a remote village accessible only by foot over the mountains. However, with the introduction of a driving tunnel, it is now easily reached, becoming a favorite destination for Faroe Islands visitors and locals alike. The name Gásadalur itself translates to "the Goose Valley," adding to the allure of this enchanting locale. Gásadalur is home to many beautiful sights including the scenic Múlafossur waterfall, and boasts a charming cafe and guesthouse where we will be staying for the evening.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Gasadalsgarour Guesthouse, Vagar DAY 7:
Mykines Island Day Trip.
Mykines is the westernmost of the 18 far-flung Faroe Islands and is accessible only by boat. The rugged island, dotted with grass-roofed homes, is home to over 500,000 puffins (the country’s largest colony) and offers spectacular views of the North Atlantic Ocean in every direction. With no more than 250 visitors on the island each day, Mykines will give you a day of spectacular hiking to the iconic Holmur lighthouse on its western point. This is a truly spectacular hike with consistently breathtaking scenery – a fitting way to spend your last day in the Faroese archipelago.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
Same lodging, or Guesthouse Hugo, Sørvágur; or Hotel Vágar, Sørvágur; or The View Hotel, Bøur DAY 8:
Goodbyes and Departures.
Today marks the end of your incredible week in the Faroe Islands. The airport is a short taxi ride from the hotel. Thank you for joining this wonderful experience – one that will have raised the bar for your future explorations. We wish you safe travels on your next adventure!
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
SELECT A DATE BELOW TO RESERVE, OR START A NEW DATE
2024 DATES:
Please contact us for your preferred date
2025 DATES:
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(Inclusions & pricing are listed below)
PRICING
Guided: C 6885 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes 8 days, 7 nights, 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, luggage handling, full time vehicle and guide support, maps and route instructions, mountain bicycle rental, VAT
Small groups or private tours, fully supported with drivers/guides and vehicles, all lodging and most meals included. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Self-Guided: C 6195 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes 8 days, 7 nights, 6 breakfasts, luggage transfers, maps and route instructions, mountain bicycle rental, VAT
Semi-supported, independent tours including welcome briefing, lodging, luggage transfers and necessary vehicle transfers. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Single Occupancy: 1285
Bike Rentals:
Mountain: Included
Flat bars. Principia 29″ MTB, or similar.
Upgrade to Road: 250
Drop bars. Gravel Allroad, or similar.
Upgrade to E-bike: 250
Flat bars. Centurion Dark Image E or similar.
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
Please see above for accurate pricing and inclusions, unless we have proposed a customized trip for you and those details are provided in your custom proposal.
1. Choose an advertised date to join a small group, or see our Join a Group page to see where groups are already forming.
2. Pick your own dates. We will confirm quickly, and are happy to talk with you as you make your choice. If you would like a private guided date, this usually comes at a surcharge depending on the details, please get in touch for more information. If you prefer self-guided, we usually only require two participants to initiate a new date at the advertised price, and can sometimes reduce prices for you if you have four or more.
BEST TIMES
The best time to enjoy this tour is June to August.
The best time of the year to visit the Faroe Islands is summer (June - August) when conditions are generally at their driest and sunniest. Particularly thanks to the archipelago’s remote, northern location, good weather is never guaranteed. Conditions in the Faroes are famously unpredictable, and you’ll often hear the locals joke “if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes”. This is all part of the location’s charm though, and like any adventure, planning and packing accordingly will help ensure you have an enjoyable experience.
Summer days see an average high of 13°C and up to 22 hours of daylight in June and July, giving you longer days to explore all of the beauty the Islands have to offer.
While the Faroes never feel especially busy, summer is their high season with people often visiting the Islands during the months of July, August and September.
GET TO THE START
The Faroe Islands are easily accessible from the United States of America and Canada.
The national airline of the Faroe Islands, Atlantic Airways, operates non-stop flights from Reykjavik (Iceland), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Edinburgh (Scotland) to the Faroe Islands all year round, and SAS operates non-stop flights from Copenhagen all year round. All of these destinations have non-stop flights from a host of cities in the USA and Canada, which means that getting to the Faroe Islands only requires one stop-over. In many cases you can depart from cities in the USA and Canada and arrive in the Faroe Islands on the same day. It only takes one hour to fly directly from Reykjavik in Iceland or Edinburgh in Scotland to the Faroe Islands. Flights from Copenhagen are only two hours. Easier than you thought, right?
VIA REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Here is an overview of cities in the USA and Canada that have non-stop flights to Reykjavik, Iceland:
Anchorage, Baltimore-Washington, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Denver, Detroit, Edmonton, Halifax, Los Angeles, Miami Intl, Minneapolis, Montreal, New York JFK, New York Newark, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Francisco, St Louis, Seattle, Tampa Intl, Toronto, Vancouver, Washington-Dulles.
The airlines that fly from the United States and Canada to Reykjavik include:
Note that flights sometimes operate at varying times throughout the year, depending on season.
VIA COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Here is an overview of cities in the USA and Canada that have direct flights to Copenhagen, Denmark:
Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York JFK, New York Newark, San Francisco, Washington-Dulles
The airlines that fly from the United States and Canada to Copenhagen include:
Note that flights sometimes operate at varying times throughout the year, depending on season.
VIA EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
Here is an overview of cities in the USA and Canada that have direct flights to Edinburgh, Scotland:
New York JFK, New York Newark, New York (Stewart International Airport in Orange County), Providence (Rhode Island), Windsor Locks (Connecticut)
The airlines that fly from the United States and Canada to Edinburgh include:
Note that flights sometimes operate at varying times throughout the year, depending on season.
The first inn is within walking distance of the Vagar airport, or can be reached by taxi.
There is also the option to venture to the Faroe Islands by boat, with the 35 hour ferry journey offering amazing scenery (especially as you approach the Islands), and if you’re lucky a whale sighting or two. You can take the ferry to Tórshavn on Smyril Line's M/S Norröna, with the service traveling between Hirtshals in Denmark and Seyðisfjørður in Iceland via Vágar. There are two weekly departures in the high season (July-August), and one crossing per week throughout the rest of the year. You can travel on the ferry as a foot passenger or bring your vehicle, and the ship has a cafeteria serving Scandinavian specialities, a gourmet restaurant, a cinema, a shop and a swimming pool.
Once arriving on the Faroe Islands, you can either rent a car, take a public bus or taxi to your next destination.
BEFORE AND AFTER
If you have one day:
The capital of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, lies in the heart of the island group. With it’s historic center, engaging cultural attractions, lush hillsides and great food it is a wonderful place to explore. Spend the day walking around the city taking in the unique atmosphere of this seaside capital, making sure you take the time to see Tinganes (now home to the Faroese Government and the oldest part of town) with it’s charming constructions dating back to the Viking Age.
We recommend the following accommodation option:
Hotel Vagar, https://www.hotelvagar.fo/Hotel Vagar – Nestled in the charming village of Sørvágur on the beautiful island of Vagar, Vagar hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from the airport, making it the perfect destination for your pre and post tour stay. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Vagar islands, with incredible attractions such as Múlafossur, Trælanípan, Drangarnir, Trøllkonufingur, and the iconic Mykines islands, all located just a stone’s throw away from the hotel.
MORE READING
Highlights:
The mighty Gásadalur, the lake and falls at Bøsdalafossur, nesting sea bird on the cliffs of Vestmanna, standing at the highest point on the islands, eating with the locals, settling into a hot tub at the end of a rewarding day, knowing you have experienced part of the world relatively few others have.
Your adventure begins in Vágar, in the northwest, and will cross the islands to experience and explore the best hikes that the Faroes have to offer. The hikes will take you to locals of singular natural beauty, mountains, cliffs, lakes and waterfalls as well as to some of the oldest and most traditional small villages to be found. You will visit nesting sea birds and share pastures with sheep. A comfortable inn and fine food wait at the end of each day.
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