Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands - population a bit over 14000. It is located on Streymoy Island, one of the 18 islands that constitute the Faroes.

It’s been a rocky night out on the North Sea but I survived thankfully! (MF doesn't suffer from motion sickness).

We were greeted at breakfast with a glimpse of sun - on the first land we have seen in over 35 hours - such a joyous sight (the sun); it lasted about 60 seconds then promptly disappeared and so did this island almost (behind fog).

Had a nice bus drive up and round the hills of Tórshavn and got great views. No rain (!). This won’t last, I’m sure.

When we arrived back from the morning excursion, we wandered around the port area: in particular the area known as Tignanes which is perched on a rocky outcrop in between the two harbours. Tignanes translates to ‘Parliament Point’ and is one of the oldest meeting places for a parliament in the world dating back to 900AD. The red-painted buildings are still used today by parliament.

The sun came out! 

Then up to the lighthouse and along the coast - enjoying the sun. Lots of sheep, especially beside the road.

Our afternoon bus excursion is to the Island of Vágar and in particular the village of Gásaladur - 57 kms west of Tórshavn via 4 tunnels, one of which actually joins Streymoy Island (where Tórshavn is located) to Vágar via a 5 km sub-sea tunnel, Vágatunnilin. 

We pass green, green, green landscapes - by the way, it is NOT raining. There is apparently a hike here called the Postman’s Trail: steep and rocky but with great views. This is the route the postman used to take to deliver mail to Gásaladur!

Gásaladur is where you see the famous Múlafossur Waterfall - spectacular with its 30 m sheer drop into the ocean below.

And wow!

We also pass salmon farms. And Sørvagsvatn, the largest lake on the Faroe Islands.

Stopped at a viewpoint at the tiny village of Dávabreyt for a view out to the stacks in the inlet of Tindhólmur.

At Sandavágur, on the way back to the ship, we visit the oldest Faroese church that is both designed and built by Faroe islanders. The church is also home of a runic stone that was found in the village. Building was started in 1914 during WWI and the church is known for its distinctive red roof.

And guess what? It didn’t rain - all day (obviously one of the 65 days of the year when it doesn’t).

It is now 5:30 pm. Our group is the last back on board and we set sail shortly after - for another ocean crossing: the Norwegian Sea.

It’s raining now …

Walked about 9 kms.