Sunshine, Sea Gorges & Saksun Strolls: The Perfect Farewell to the Faroes

Last Updated on 11th September 2025

Funningsfjørður – A Fjord Framed by Giants

The day felt magical, like stepping into a Faroese folklore tale. Every place we visited had an otherworldly beauty, making it feel almost surreal. Our first stop was Funningsfjørður, a breathtaking fjord at the northern tip of Eysturoy, framed by towering mountains – Tyril, Middagsfjall, and Slættaratindur. Tyril, in particular, seemed to follow us throughout our journey across northern Eysturoy, appearing again and again like a silent guardian of the landscape.

The Enchanting Embrace of Gjógv’s Gorge

Next, we made our way to Gjógv, a charming small village with a stunning natural sea gorge (its namesake), watched over once again by our familiar companion, Tyril. I fell in love with Gjógv instantly! if I ever return to the Faroe Islands, it will be because of Gjógv (and the Faroese people!).

Wandering through the village, we crossed the Dalá river and soon found ourselves atop a set of concrete steps leading down to what I believe is the most beautiful spot in the Faroe Islands. The scene was so utterly ethereal; tranquil turquoise waters nestled between dramatic black basalt cliffs. I could have spent the entire day there, simply soaking in the serenity. But we had more exploring to do, and Jónas rounded us up for a short hike to the top of the gorge, where we were rewards with uninterrupted views of Kalsoy.

A Pitch with a View (That I Barely Noticed)

I must confess, it’s only just now that I have realised why we stopped at Eiði on our way to Streymoy. There’s an old football stadium (now a camping ground) perched right next to the Atlantic Ocean. Given my complete lack of photos, I clearly had about as much enthusiasm for it as I did when I visited the Henningsvær stadium in Lofoten, Norway (also surrounded by sea).

Chasing Waterfalls: The Magic of Fossá

Leaving Eysturoy behind, we crossed into Streymoy, bound for Fossá Waterfall, the tallest in the Faroe Islands. I don’t what came over me that day, maybe it was the sheer euphoria of it all, but Fossá was the most incredible waterfall I’ve ever seen.

Without hesitation, I lithely clambered up the path, eager to get as close as possible until I could feel the spray on my face (yes, you’re allowed to!). The waterfall cascades into two majestic tiers over rugged rock outcrops, a mesmerising display of power and beauty. Much like in Gjógv, we were completely enchanted, lingering for as long as we could, until Jónas had to round us up once again and coax us onward.

Where Giants and Witches Turn to Stone

We continued to Tjørnuvík where we were rewarded with a stunning view of Risin and Kellingin (the giant and the witch) two dramatic sea stacks rising from the waves. I had glimpsed them before from Kalsoy, but the view from Tjørnuvík was far superior.

Ready for another bit of folklore? Here it is:

The giants of Iceland once decided they wanted the Faroe Islands for themselves. They sent a giant and a witch to steal them. The giant waited in the sea near Eiðiskollur mountain, while the witch worked through the night, tying the islands together so the giant could carry them home on his back. But when she fastened the rope to the mountain, it split. They struggled on, unaware of the rising sun, until the first rays of daylight hit them, turning them both to stone. And there they remain, frozen in time, gazing longingly toward Iceland.

Saksun: Serenity, Stillness, and Striking Scenery

Our final stop was Saksun, a remote hillside village best known for its breathtaking lagoon. While it wasn’t overcrowded, there were enough visitors to make a quiet wander impossible, and I do love a quiet wander. As most of the visitors made their way towards the heritage farm, Dúvugarðar, I veered off towards the turf-roofed white church, built in 1858, and the lagoon beyond. Strangely, no one else seemed interested in this part of Saksun, but I wasn’t complaining. For a few blissful moments, I had the beauty of the place all to myself. Then, as curiosity got the better of the crowd and they followed my lead, I casually made my way back towards the village.

My final day in the Faroe Islands felt like a scene from a folklore tale—golden sunlight, dramatic landscapes, and the perfect farewell. With my favourite guide, Jónas, and a wonderful group, we explored the sea gorge of Gjógv, the cascading Fossa Waterfall, and the serene lagoon of Saksun. As the chill of evening set in, I knew this was goodbye to a place that had been wild, raw, and utterly unforgettable.

There wasn’t much to do in Saksun during the off-season. With the farm café closed, there was no change of a warming coffee, and as the afternoon chill crept in, I found myself longing for Jónas to call it a day. The Thai sisters, however, seemed to be relishing the moment. My fellow solo traveller and I exchanged a glance before asking Jónas to open the van so we could sit inside, hoping he’d take the hint. Eventually, he did. And just like that, our day, and my time in the Faroe Islands, can to an end.

A Fond Farewell

The Faroe Islands were everything I had hoped for; wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful. From the puffins of Mykines to the dramatic cliffs of Vestmanna, the moody shores of Vàgar to the fairytale landscapes of Eysturoy and Streymoy, every moment felt like stepping into another world. The ever-changing weather kept me on my toes, turning misty mornings into golden afternoons, and sometimes reminding me just how unforgiving the North Atlantic can be. But beyond the landscapes, what truly made my time here special were the people, the warm-hearted guides, the fellow travellers, and the quiet, unspoken connection with the land itself. And of course, Hogni from Guide to the Faroe Islands, who made sure me time in the Faroes was extra special and flawless! The Faroes left their mark on me, and though my journey here has ended, I know this won’t be goodbye forever.

Happy & safe travels!

L x👣