Not everyone will be able to quickly show where exactly the Faroe Islands are on the map. At the same time, more and more tourists are going there. They are mainly attracted by the opportunity to take a break from noisy resorts, vibrant cities and city dust.

Located in the Norwegian Sea between Iceland and the Scottish Islands, the archipelago consists of 18 islands, of which 17 are inhabited. The population is 48 thousand. It is noteworthy that almost half of these people live in the capital or its suburbs. The Faroe region is considered bilingual. The official languages ​​are Danish and Faroese, which combines different West Scandinavian dialects.

To date, there are no direct air flights from Russia to the islands. Therefore, tourists have to change planes in Denmark or Norway. You can pre-book your flight ticket using the Internet. You can get from one island to another by several means of transport, including by ferry. For some tourists, it is most convenient to travel around the islands on a boat hired for an additional fee.

Although the Faroe Islands belong to Denmark, you cannot enter their territory with a Schengen visa. The refusal to join the European Union was deliberate and was associated with taxes on fishing. Therefore, to get to the archipelago, you need to apply for a visa, which will have a special note. There are special visa centers where you can do this in many big cities. However, most travelers prefer the services of travel agencies. All necessary documents are transferred to the agency, and then the employees hand over the completed visas to the clients.

Climatic and weather conditions

The islands are located in the central part of a warm sea current known as the Gulf Stream. Therefore, this place has a constant off-season. Throughout the year, the number of sunny days does not exceed 80, and the rest of the time it rains. In addition, even in sunny weather strong winds blow. The most comfortable time to visit the archipelago will be the summer months, when precipitation is rare.

The Faroe Islands have a fairly mild climate. Average temperatures for winter range from approximately 0˚C to +4˚C. Summer temperature is 11-17˚C. The rainy season lasts from September to January on the islands. Further, the archipelago is plunged into fog, which does not allow the rays of the sun to pass through.

Another feature: the water near the islands is perfectly clear, and its temperature, even in winter, does not drop below +10˚C. This creates ideal conditions for fishing and diving in winter.

Nature

For those who prefer to relax in the lap pristine nature, The Faroe Islands are an ideal option. Most of the territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows and mountain ranges. Numerous lakes and fjords, gorges, cliffs and waterfalls will not leave anyone indifferent.

There are few trees on the islands, only occasionally you can see conifers, maples or mountain ash trees. Fauna connoisseurs free time on the archipelago can be devoted to watching dolphins, seabirds, whales and seals. There are also incredibly large numbers of sheep grazing on the hills of these islands.

Sights of the archipelago

Of course, many tourists consider the main attractions in the Faroe Islands beautiful mountains and slopes with flocks of sheep, as well as compact towns and colorful roofs on houses.

Lovers of natural attractions will also appreciate the unique features of the different islands. For example, Streymoy is a paradise for fishing lovers. Here you can catch halibut, eels and even representatives of the salmon family. Nolsoy attracts tourists with its seal rookeries, and Fugloy with the fact that it is loved by millions of birds. And the northern settlement of Skarvanes is famous for a beautiful sea cliff called Tretlkonufingur, which translated means “troll woman’s finger.”

The archipelago also has a large selection of excursion programs. For example, this could be a visit to the capital and small villages or boat trips.

The capital of the islands, Tórshavn, is located in an incredibly picturesque area. Much of the village juts out over the fjord, offering stunning views of the mountains and steep cliffs. Tórshavn is a very quiet city. It is noisy only in the central square and on the piers.

The main attraction of the capital is the Munkastovan Monastery, built in the 15th century. It is noteworthy that the monastery, surrounded by a stone wall, is one of the few buildings that survived the great fire that raged in the 17th century.

Many will be interested in visiting Historical Museum. Among its exhibits are ship models, fishing gear and agricultural implements, ranging from Viking times to the present day. Also here you can see items that local residents used in everyday life. There are also exhibits that are valuable from a religious point of view.

The House of Server Countries is also definitely worth a visit. There is an art gallery there and concert hall, and on summer evenings introductory events are held for guests of the archipelago.

After a walk through Vidarlund Park, it is worth going to the Art Museum to see delightful examples of painting and sculpture.

If your trip to the archipelago is in July, you should plan your vacation so that you are sure to be on the islands on the 28th-29th. During this period, local people nationally celebrate St. Olaf's Day. According to tradition, celebrations include ceremonial religious and dance processions, art exhibitions, and rowing and equestrian competitions.

Gastronomic nuances

National cuisine has a close relationship with the climate of the archipelago. The two main ingredients that are used in preparing various dishes are lamb and fish. Gourmets visiting the Faroe Islands should definitely try local delicacies such as sheep's head and whale meat. No less interesting is ruyskjet (meat that has been dried for several months) and skärpiket – meat that has been dried for more than a year and is consumed without any processing. Often the same cooking method is used for drying fish.

Those tourists who prefer traditional cuisine should order fried lamb at the restaurant. You can also try puffins (this is the name of small birds), stuffed with sweet dough, served with potatoes and sweet berries.

It may surprise many that rhubarb is added to food everywhere here. Another one interesting feature– There are practically no fish shops on the islands. If the islanders want to cook fish, they catch it themselves, and after cooking they serve it with a side dish of rice or potatoes.

It is worth noting that the most popular drinks on the islands are coffee and tea. Locals often add herbs that grow on mountain slopes to tea. Alcoholic drinks are officially permitted from the age of 18. However, if light beer can be purchased everywhere, then low-alcohol drinks, strong dark beer and wine can only be purchased in government stores and in restaurants that have a special license.

Lunch at a regular restaurant will cost approximately $30. In higher-level establishments it will already be $45-50. The most budget-friendly snack option can be found in local cafes.

Where to stay?

After arriving in the capital, you can check into a three-star hotel. For example, it could be "Streim" or "Tórshavn". For those who like more comfortable conditions, “Hafniya” and “Feroyar” are suitable. It is worth noting that all hotels offer tourists rooms with private amenities. Also provided is transfer from the airport and back, free access to Wi-Fi. Hotel rates start from $120. Although you can get a seasonal discount.

A more economical accommodation option is a hostel or guest house. The most popular are “Bládýpi” and “Skansin”, but you should book rooms in them several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels on the islands where you can spend the night and have breakfast. Accommodation prices depend on the time of year and start from $80.

For tourists who prefer relaxing close to nature, campsites are available. Local residents value order very much, so campers are required to maintain cleanliness and thoroughly clean before leaving.

Main types of entertainment

​ There are many varieties of fish in coastal waters. Therefore, not only local residents, but also tourists are fond of fishing. By the way, according to the laws, any fish can be exported from this country if its length exceeds 30 cm.

​ The Faroe Islands are extremely interesting for wreck divers. After all, you can find sunken ships here. And near Nolsoy Island, divers like to watch how seals live underwater.

​ Those who cannot imagine a proper holiday without nightclubs should visit the capital’s “Rex” and “Eclipse”. However, it is worth considering that only young people aged 18-25 are allowed into the second club.

What to buy?

The most popular souvenirs are items made of wool, wood and ceramics. Due to the climate, the islanders cannot imagine their life without woolen clothes and accessories. Therefore, here you can always buy a stylish sweater, hat or gloves at an attractive price.

It is worth considering that from Monday to Thursday, most stores are open from 9:00 to 18:00. On Friday, the working day is often extended by another hour. But on Saturday everything closes earlier, and Sunday is a day off.

1.​ The most optimal transport for getting to the archipelago is an airplane. But there's only one here international Airport– Vagar, located near the village of Sorvagur.

2.​ To travel around the islands, you can rent a car. It will cost at least $60 per day. To rent, you must be over 20 years old, have a credit card and an international driver's license.

3.​ Tourists who give preference public transport, can purchase maps with routes and timetables at Steinatún kiosks.

4.​ Traveling to the Faroe Islands is quite expensive. But when leaving the country, if you have a receipt from stores operating according to the system Tax Free, you can return VAT. But only if the purchase amount in the receipt exceeds $48.

5.​ It is not customary to leave a tip on this archipelago. Staff remuneration is most often immediately included in the bill.

6.​ You can fish if you have a license, which is sold in tourist offices. If a tourist wants to take his fishing gear, he must sanitize it in advance.

7.​ The climate in the Faroe Islands is very changeable, so you must take warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes with you on the road.

Visa information

To obtain a visa in Moscow, you can contact the Danish Embassy. You must have with you:

• ​ 2 photographs;
•  completed application form;
• ​ foreign passport (its expiration date must expire at least 3 months after the expiration of the visa) and its copy;
• ​ national passport and its copy;
• ​ insurance policy (coverage amount cannot be less than 30 thousand €);
• ​ bank account statement;
• ​ confirmation that the hotel has been booked;
• ​ certificate from place of work or study.

Undeservedly forgotten Russian tourists The area, characterized by a harsh climate, is located at the very edge of the world, but vacationers who have been here admit that for the sake of the amazing landscapes it is worth dropping everything and going on an exciting journey.

A corner lost on the edge of the earth

However, not every person will show where the Faroe Islands are located on the world map. Even though they are part of Europe, most people won't find them on the globe. Such remoteness from civilization benefited the place, lost in the Atlantic Ocean, which has preserved its pristine nature and originality.

Finding the Faroe Islands on a world map is quite difficult, especially for those who have never heard anything about them. Located between Iceland and Great Britain, they are in the North Atlantic. Officially belonging to Denmark, the Faroe Islands are a small state with an area of ​​1,399 km2. The archipelago consists of 34 municipalities, and the islands are home to more than 100 towns and villages.

Green oasis on our planet

Repeatedly, the Faeroe Islands, which have virtually no trees, have been recognized as the cleanest on the planet. Emerald meadows and a unique landscape attract not only brave tourists, but also photographers who capture the amazing beauty that just begs to be featured on magazine covers.

The archipelago, recognized as the most picturesque in the North Atlantic, is a rocky area. The steep banks are steep and very high, but it is the numerous hills that attract travelers and collectors who photograph unusual landscapes.

Descendants of the Vikings

It is known that the first settlements appeared in the territory where the Faroe Islands are now located in the 8th century. Initially, the Scots lived here, but they soon left the region due to raids by Old Scandinavian warriors. For many centuries, the area served as a transit point for the Vikings, who considered that this region was very suitable for them and took root here. Modern inhabitants of the Sheep Islands (and this is how the name of the archipelago is translated) are the descendants of glorious heroes who inherited the will and strong character from their courageous ancestors. The Faroese cherish ancient traditions and lead a unique way of life. They are even proud of their old-fashionedness: instead of lawnmowers, they have sheep, and the men cover the roofs of their houses with turf with green grass.

The population of the Faroe Islands is almost 49 thousand people. These are the people who saved a good relationship with nature and take care of it.

Whose archipelago?

In the 19th century, the lost corner for which Denmark and Norway fought became Danish. After World War II, the islands wanted to gain independence, but the government of the southernmost Scandinavian country granted them partial sovereignty.

So who owns the Faroe Islands? No researcher will give a definite answer to this question. Formally, the Queen of Denmark is considered the head of the archipelago, but all processes taking place on the islands are led by the High Commissioner. In respect of international law The Faroes are not an independent entity. The local parliament (Løgting) consists of 33 deputies who are vested with special powers. Representatives of six political parties decided not to join the European Union.

The Kingdom of Denmark, in whose parliament two representatives from the archipelago sit, helps the islands financially, resolves issues of justice and defense, and the Faroese government independently deals with issues of public policy, except for foreign ones. To this day there is talk of gaining independence from Denmark.

Climate and weather

As noted earlier, not every person accustomed to comfortable holiday conditions can withstand the harsh nature of an exotic place. Weather on Faroe Islands Not everyone will like it. The sun rarely shines here, it often rains heavily, but even in clear weather strong winds blow. Maximum precipitation falls between September and January, but snow is a very rare occurrence in the archipelago.

In summer, the temperature does not rise above 17 o C, and lovers of the sun and warmth will be disappointed with their vacation. Therefore, for those who prefer to soak up the snow-white beaches, it is better to go to the Maldives or Bahamas. The water around the islands does not warm up above 10 o C, and fashionable swimsuits and sunglasses are not useful here.

In winter, the cold reigns, which penetrates to the bones due to high humidity, so at this time tourists do not visit the archipelago, where the weather changes so often.

Administrative center of the islands

Tórshavn, the main port of the archipelago, is the capital of the Faroe Islands, home to about 20 thousand inhabitants. Without visiting her, getting to know amazing land will be incomplete. The most interesting place counts Old city, and tourists admire the cute colored houses that transport you into a real fairy tale.

The administrative center, founded in the 10th century, is located on the island of Streymoy, and here you need to stay at least for a few days. Art galleries, history museum, cozy cafes and restaurants, fashion shops - all this will allow you to experience the amazing flavor of the capital of the Faroe Islands.

The luxurious and high Fossa waterfall is recognized as the most beautiful miraculous landmark of Tórshavn.

A unique lake on the edge of an abyss

The main attraction of this lost corner is considered to be its virgin nature, which is perfectly preserved due to the harsh climate and remoteness from the civilization of the Faroe Islands (Denmark). High cliffs, emerald fields, endless ocean, gray mists and lacy clouds almost touching the ground leave no one indifferent. Even the most discerning travelers speak with admiration of the landscapes of this wonderful region.

Vagar Island attracts the attention of tourists with an amazing body of water, the beauty of which defies description. Located on a stone platform, it seems to float in the air without falling off the edge of a high cliff. Hanging Lake Sorvagsvatn (Faroe Islands), located above sea level, is a sight that is difficult to forget. For travelers admiring natural monument Only in photographs, it often seems that this is a professional photo montage, and in fact the body of water lies on different planes with the Atlantic Ocean. And only after visiting the attractive region do many understand the uniqueness of this masterpiece.

The clear waters of the lake flow into the ocean through a waterfall hidden in the rocks with the unpronounceable name Bossdalsfossur.

Local Attractions

The Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands, one of which is completely uninhabited. There are no people living on Tindholmur, although scientists suggest that many centuries ago they did live here.

Streymoy Island, which is the largest, is loved by all fishing enthusiasts.

Nolsoy is famous for its huge number of seals.

Sandoy delights tourists with its luxurious landscape: here are the most beautiful sand dunes.

Fugloy, whose name translates as “bird island,” is indeed a favorite of birds. Various representatives of birds settle on high cliffs.

Mycines Island is famous for the fact that only 13 people live on it. This is the quietest corner you can only dream of.

Esture is a picturesque place connected by a bridge to the island of Streymoy. Deep fjords create an unforgettable landscape. Mount Slattaratindur rises here with a height of about 900 meters.

On Rinkusteinar, the main natural attraction is two huge stones rocking on the waves. Local residents believe that the boulders are Viking longships, and that once upon a time an evil sorceress turned warships into boulders.

Kalsoy is an island whose coastline consists of rocky cliffs. All settlements here are connected by numerous underground tunnels. To the north is the famous Katlur Lighthouse.

Historical monuments

Munkastovan Monastery is the oldest architectural monument Faroe Islands. The landmark survived a terrible fire that raged in the city in the 17th century. Munskastovan survived only thanks to the stonework.

Local residents call the historical fortress Skansin the most peaceful on our planet. The defensive structure protected against pirate attacks, and now delights tourists with an excellent panorama that opens from the observation deck.

Diving and fishing

Divers flock here to explore the underwater world. Where the Faroe Islands are located, there are several dozen dive points, as well as the only diving center, and even beginners can test their strength here.

Fishing is a real passion of the indigenous population, and many tourists go to the water in the company of local residents giving valuable advice. This is an unforgettable experience and a unique opportunity to see magnificent landscapes. You can go out to sea on a fishing boat and cast a fishing rod where you can never reach from the shore. This is a real adventure that remains in the memory forever.

What else can tourists do?

You can take a boat tour of the caves and visit underground kingdom concert of local musicians.

Extreme sports enthusiasts who want to tickle their nerves choose scuba diving or kayaking.

Where the Faroe Islands are located is very popular walking routes. However, be careful, because in dense fogs you can get lost, falling behind the group, or fall off a steep cliff. There is even an old legend that says that lonely travelers are thrown off the cliff by the so-called hidden inhabitants - huldufolk. Mystical creatures in gray clothes that merge with the stones live in the rocks and are unkindly disposed towards the lost.

In summer, a large number of tourists come to the islands to watch the colorful event and take part in it. At the end of July the cheerful Olafsöka festival takes place, coinciding with national holiday archipelago. Residents dressed in beautiful costumes take to the streets of Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), musicians give concerts, and there is a cheerful atmosphere everywhere.

Heaven's Gate of the Archipelago

In the 60s of the last century, the archipelago was occupied by Britain, and the airport built on the Faroe Islands was used for military purposes. For more than 40 years, the spacious building stood abandoned, and only at the beginning of this century it was modernized: capacity heaven's gate now amounts to 400 thousand passengers per year.

Located a few kilometers from the village of Sorvagur, on the island of Vagar (Voar), the airport provides both domestic and charter flights to Europe. In addition, it is connected by helicopter to the entire archipelago.

The building has a waiting room, a medical room, luggage storage, several cafes, and a duty-free shop. You can also rent a car here.

Faroe Islands: how to get there?

Russian tourists dreaming of enjoying the stunning scenery of untouched nature should know that there are no direct flights from Moscow to the archipelago. First you will have to fly with a transfer to Norway or Denmark, and only then get to the only airport on the islands. Despite the remoteness, it is very easy to get to the Faroe Islands from the megacities of Northern Europe: the flight takes only two hours. And there is a ferry between the islands, the services of which you can use, and a helicopter will help you get to the most remote places.

For Russians to visit Faroe Islands, which are autonomous region, a special island visa is required (Schengen is not suitable). Despite the fact that the exotic place officially belongs to Denmark, the islands live by their own laws. To ensure that your trip is not overshadowed by anything, you will have to take care of a visa in advance. Its processing is handled by authorized visa centers in Moscow, Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Samara and other large cities. The consular fee is approximately 1,500 rubles, but depending on the exchange rate of the Danish krone, its cost may increase. The visa processing time ranges from eight days to two months. If you use the services of a travel agency, its employees will prepare all the documents themselves.

Where to stay?

The Faroe Islands, where time flies unnoticed, provide tourists with comfortable conditions for relaxation. You can stay in three-star hotels offering comfortable rooms, or choose more budget options in hostels and guest houses. Those who like to live in tents will be able to settle in special campsites, but they will have to remove all garbage before leaving. In addition, there is convenient options accommodation for those who come for several days: hotels in the "breakfast and overnight" format.

Those who are planning to travel on their own should book rooms 2-3 months in advance. Prices depend on tourist season, as well as the time of year. But don’t forget about warm clothes and special shoes for walking in the mountains.

The Faroe Islands are ideal for sophisticated travelers who want to take a break from vibrant cities and noisy resorts. Archipelago located in the Norwegian Sea - the northern part Atlantic Ocean, between the Scottish Isles and Iceland - attracts even travelers with extensive experience with its beauty.

The local nature is extraordinary: gorges, lakes, numerous waterfalls, fjords, graceful rocks - all this captivates at first sight. There are practically no trees, but you can endlessly admire the snow-capped mountain peaks towering over the lands of the archipelago. The highest point of these places is Slattarathindur peak located on the island Esturoy and is 882 meters above sea level.

The Faroe Region is an internal autonomy of the Kingdom of Denmark, independently managing almost all issues, excluding the topic of defense and foreign policy. The archipelago includes 18 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. Of the 48 thousand local residents, about 20 thousand live in the capital or in the suburbs.

There are two official languages ​​on the islands - Faroese and Danish. Moreover, the vast majority of residents are native speakers of the Faroese language, which is a mixture of Western Scandinavian dialects and is widely used in almost all spheres of life.

Capital	Tórshavn
Population	48,500 people
Population density	35 people/km 2
	Faroese, Danish
Religion	Lutheranism
Form of government	constitutional monarchy
	Faroese krone, Danish krone
Timezone
International dialing code
Internet domain zone
Electricity

Climate and weather

The Faroe Islands are located at the very center of the warm Gulf Stream, which causes a constant off-season: there are 280 rainy days per year. Despite the fact that the islands seem to have no boundaries to the seasons, the climate is quite mild. in winter average monthly temperature ranges from 0 °C to + 4 °C, and in the summer - from +11 °С to +17 °С. The rainy season falls from September to January, and then the archipelago is covered with fog, preventing the sun's rays from reaching the surface.

Thanks to the warm sea current, the water on the islands has almost the same temperature - +10 °С- all year round, which creates all the conditions for the development of fishing.

Nature

Holidays in the Faroe Islands are a holiday in the lap of nature in its original form. Due to frequent strong winds, the islands are mostly treeless; sometimes you can find mountain ash, maple, and conifers. A significant part of the islands' territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows, and mountain ranges.

In their free time, fauna lovers can diversify their vacation on the islands by observing colonies of seabirds, seals, whales, and dolphins.

There are a huge number of sheep in the archipelago. The latter were once brought to the local hills by the Celts. The local endless pastures have attracted the attention of sheep, and today there are two sheep for every local resident.

Attractions

The Faroe Islands are best visited during the summer months, when there is little rainfall and the weather is warm.

The excursion program in the Faroe Islands is varied: visits to the capital Tórshavn, small villages, bird colonies, a boat trip in coastal waters.

The capital of the islands, the city of Tórshavn, lies in a picturesque area. The main part of the city juts out over the fjord, offering views amazing view to wild mountains and steep cliffs. It's very quiet here, the only noise is central square and piers, where continuous work is in full swing. Streets far from the center are usually small and cramped.

The main attraction of Tórshavn is Munkastowan Monastery, built in the 15th century and surrounded by a stone wall. Muncastowan is one of the few buildings that escaped the great fire of 1673. Another building that also survived the fire is the Leighubün ​​royal warehouse.

Curious travelers will be interested in a trip to the Historical Museum, which has in its collection ship models, household items of local residents, fishing gear and agricultural tools from Viking times to the present day, as well as objects of religious value.

Taking a walk in the park Vidarlund, you can go to the Museum of Art and enjoy magnificent examples of sculpture and painting.

Available in the Faroe Islands and "Bird Island"- Fugloy, which got its name from its majestic cliffs inhabited by millions of seabird colonies.

To the north of the settlement of Skarvanes there is a beautiful sea cliff Tretlkonufingur ("troll woman's finger").

At the end of July (28-29), the Faroese celebrate their main holiday - St. Olaf's Day. These days, usually reserved locals go on a wild rampage of emotions. The festival is named after Olaf II, who, as King of Norway, introduced Christianity to Scandinavia and began the fight against paganism.

Traditional celebrations include rowing competitions, horse racing, dance and religious processions, and art exhibitions.

Nutrition

The Faroes owe their national menu to the harsh climate of the islands. Traditionally, local dishes consist of meat and fish. Faroese delicacies - sheep's head, whale fat and skerpiquet(dried lamb) - a must-try for gourmets. Well, lovers of traditional cuisine will be happy to serve fried lamb in local restaurants. Tourists have the opportunity to taste exquisitely stuffed with sweet dough dead ends(these are birds) served with sweet berries and potatoes. Rhubarb, which is widely eaten, will also be new to many people.

Alcoholic drinks can officially be consumed on the islands from the age of 18. Light beer is sold everywhere, but strong dark beer, low-alcohol drinks and wine are sold only in state monopoly stores major cities and licensed restaurants.

Lunch at a local restaurant will cost a tourist an average of $30, in higher-level establishments - $45-50, excluding alcohol. You can have a snack at a local cafe for much less.

Accommodation

Upon arrival on the islands, you can stay in the capital's three-star hotels "Tórshavn" or "Streim" or in more comfortable "Hafnia" And "Feroyar", All hotels offer tourists rooms with private amenities, transfer to/from the airport, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The cost of living is quite high - from $120, but there are seasonal discounts.

A more budget-friendly option would be guest houses and hostels. The most popular of them are Skansin and Bladýpi, but you need to book rooms several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels operating on the principle "bed and breakfast". Prices here start at $80 and depend on the time of year.

For travelers who prefer outdoor recreation, there are campsites located in specially designated areas. The Faroe Islands have a very strict attitude towards order, so campers in tents are required to remain clean and thoroughly clean upon departure.

Entertainment and relaxation

There are many varieties of fish in local waters, so fishing is very popular among locals and vacationers. By the way, local law allows you to export any fish longer than 30 cm from the country, which has long been prohibited in most European countries.

The Faroe Islands are interesting for wreck divers: You can find sunken ships in the local coastal waters. Near Nolsoy Island it is interesting to watch the underwater life of seals.

Lovers nightlife can spend time in the capital's clubs Rex or Eclipse. The latter allows visitors no younger than 18, but no older than 25.

Purchases

Of the Faroese souvenirs, the most interesting are the numerous woolen products, ceramic and wooden crafts.

Due to the rather harsh climate, woolen clothing is held in high esteem among the islanders. Here you can always buy a fashionable sweater, gloves or hat at attractive prices.

Most shops are open from 9:00-10:00 to 17:30-18:00. On Friday, many remain open until 19:00. On Saturdays, all retail outlets operate on a reduced schedule - from 9:00 to 12:00, 14:00 or 16:00; on Sundays they are usually closed.

Transport

The Faroe Islands have a developed bus system. route network, ferries run between the islands. The capital has red local buses with four routes, which can reach almost all areas of the city. The waiting interval is half an hour in the morning and daytime; in the evening it increases to one hour. Blue buses Bygdaleiðir are the connecting transport of the islands. Maps of routes and schedules of passenger transport can be purchased at kiosks Steinatún.

The best way to get to the islands themselves is by plane. The only international airport, Vagar, is located on the island of the same name near the village of Sorvagur. Tourists can rent a car to travel around the islands. In order to rent, you must have an international driver's license, a credit card and be over 20 years old. Rental prices start from $60 per day.

Connection

Standard mobile communications on islands - GSM. There is also an analogue version, but it has almost been replaced by the digital format.

Local mobile operators - Foroya Tele and Kall P/F. Roaming in their networks is available to subscribers of the main mobile operators in Russia.

Tourists can purchase a SIM card for local mobile communications at Teleshops, hotels, post offices and gas stations.

In the Faroe Islands, there are sufficient numbers of public telephones (they work on credit cards and coins). When calling abroad, you need to dial 00, the national code and the number of the called subscriber.

You can use the Internet in an Internet cafe. Most hotels provide wireless connections on their premises.

Safety

When traveling around the islands, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your property - the crime rate here is extremely low. In order not to spoil your holiday, it is enough not to leave personal belongings unattended, not to take large sums of money with you, to be polite to local residents and not to abuse night walks. If necessary, the police are always ready to help.

If during your trip you need health care, you can rest assured that it will be provided in the most high level. The central hospital is located in the capital and has an excellent medical base.

Business climate

Registering a business in the Faroe Islands takes only a few days. The most common forms are the joint stock company, suitable for large companies, and the limited liability company. In order to start your own business here, you need to have a legal address on the islands. Another condition is a resident of the Kingdom of Denmark as one of the participants in the case.

The minimum authorized capital for a joint stock company is approximately $85,000, for a limited liability company - about $20,000. For registration you will also need a draft memorandum of association, articles of association and an application.

Foreign companies can enter the Faroese market by opening branches. A resident of the islands or Denmark must also be appointed as the head of the branch.

From the point of view of taxation, business legislation, and accounting standards, the Faroe Islands provide optimal conditions for the development of companies. The legal regulation of business activities is similar to Danish and adheres to European Union standards.

The main business in the archipelago is concentrated in the services sector and the fishing industry.

Local investment websites offer offers for entrepreneurs willing to invest in new ways to develop the fishing industry. At the same time, the Faroese are very interested in high-tech businesses that can offer environmentally friendly solutions for production.

Real estate

Purchasing real estate abroad is rightfully considered one of the most promising and long-term investments. The Faroe Islands can be an excellent place for both temporary and permanent residence. They become especially attractive to people who love comfort and privacy, and who strive for order. Offers on the real estate market are varied - from a small studio apartment to a solid large house. The prices are quite attractive. A house with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large surrounding area will cost approximately $130,000.

However, those who decide to make such a deal should keep in mind that local banks do not provide mortgages for housing in the absence of a residence permit. In addition, local legislation requires appropriate permission from the Ministry of Justice for the acquisition of property by a foreigner.

Traveling to the islands is not a cheap pleasure. The price level here is quite high and is equal to the average European one. However, when leaving the country, tourists can make a VAT refund if they have a receipt from a store operating under the Tax Free system. The corresponding inscriptions are present at the entrance to shopping facility. To qualify for a tax refund, your one-time purchase must exceed $48.

Tipping is not accepted on the islands; the service staff's remuneration is usually already included in the bill.

Fishing is only permitted in certain bodies of water on the basis of a license sold at tourist offices. If a tourist intends to take fishing gear with him from home, then it must be sanitized before arriving on the islands. Instructions for fishermen can be found in tourist brochures. In streams and streams, the fishing season is open from May 1 to August 31, in the sea - all year round.

When traveling, you should not forget about the local changing climate. On vacation, it won’t hurt to have warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes for moving through mountainous terrain and trips to the sea.

Vaccination before travel is not required. Emergency phone number is 112.

Visa information

To obtain a visa, you must contact the consular department of the Danish Embassy in Moscow at the address: Prechistensky Lane, 9.

Anyone wishing to obtain a visa must provide a visa application form, 2 photographs, a foreign passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the requested visa) with a copy, a national passport with a copy, confirmation of a hotel reservation, a certificate from the place of work (study), an insurance policy covering everything risks (the amount of insurance coverage should not be less than 30,000 €), a bank account statement or travel checks (at the rate of 50 € for each day of stay).

More information about the package of documents can be found at the consular section on weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00.

Faroe Islands translated from Faroese means “Sheep Islands”. In English they are called Faroe Islands. They represent a separate island group and are not known to many tourists. Not everyone will immediately answer the question of where the Faroe Islands are on the world map. But nevertheless, they are of interest to travelers, as they represent a corner of untouched nature and peace.

In contact with

Classmates

Faroese Parliament and Government

About the Faroe Islands, Wikipedia reports that they are located in the northern part of the Atlantic between Iceland and Shetland Islands related to Scotland. It is impossible to give a clear answer to the question of which country the Faroe Islands belong to. On the one hand, they are part of, on the other hand, since 1948, they have independently resolved almost all issues of state policy, except for foreign and defense.

The Faroes have their own Legislature – parliament (Løgting), in which 6 political parties are represented. It has 33 members. And also the executive body is the Landsstüyri and the only court. There are two representatives from the Faroes in the Danish Parliament.

The Faroe Islands, although related to Europe, are not part of the European Union. They are not an independent entity in terms of international law and sign treaties jointly with Denmark. Representatives of individual parties advocate complete independence of the Faroe Islands from Denmark.

Capital, population

The main port of the Faroe Islands, the city of Tórshavn is the capital of the country. It is located on the island of Stromoy (area 373.5 sq. kilometers), in its southeastern part. About 20 thousand people live in the capital.

The entire population of the country has about 50 thousand people. The main language is Faroese, the vast majority of residents are Faroese (about 90%). Behind them come the Danes, Icelanders and the British. Surprisingly, Russians also live here. In 2011 there were 55 people.

Culture, traditions of the Faroe Islands

The main religion is Lutheranism, but there are also Christians. There are many architecturally interesting churches from the Middle Ages.

The distinctive culture of the islands - literature, music, dance - is based on closely intertwined local and Danish traditions. Folklore and jazz festivals are often held in the Faroe Islands.

Oulavsjoka

The main holiday is Oulavsöka, which takes place July 28-29. It is named after Olaf, the saint who introduced Christianity to Norway.

The festival program includes:

Slaughter grind

An integral part public culture Faroe is the slaughter of pilot whales - black dolphins. This event mainly takes place in the summer, is not of a commercial nature and organized by communities. Anyone can take part in it, but mostly men do it, and women only watch.

This fishery has historical roots. It is due to the fact that, due to climatic conditions, vegetables and grains grow poorly on the islands, so for centuries the population had to meat and fat are needed, including pilot whales. About 950 heads are harvested annually, which provides 500 tons of meat and fat and accounts for 30% of the total amount of meat products produced on the islands. These products are not exported, are not sold in stores, they are consumed by families.

The fishery has faced criticism and radical action from animal rights and marine conservation groups. They consider it cruel and not caused by a vital necessity. At the same time, local whalers talk about its economic importance.

Butterfly shawls

Sheep farming is developed in the Faroe Islands. They are also famous for the fact that hand-knitting shawls from the wool of local sheep is common here. These products differ from other types of shawls and scarves in a very unusual shape, similar to the shape of a butterfly. This design has practical significance. Thanks to it, the shawl remains on the shoulders while moving, even if it is not tied.

Faroe Islands Climate

Wikipedia says that the climate in the Faroe Islands is temperate maritime. Winters are warm and summers are cool and humid. The warmest month is July with a temperature of 0–4 °C, and the coldest month is January with a temperature of 11–17 °C. Up to 2 thousand mm of precipitation falls per year. It mainly rains, which occurs for about 9 months a year from September to January, and there is frequent fog on the islands.

The archipelago is washed by the Gulf Stream, a warm sea current, due to which the coastal waters have a temperature of +10°C throughout the year. This factor significantly softens the climate and helps create optimal living conditions for marine life, including fish and plankton.

Geography of the Faroe Islands

The area of ​​all Faroe Islands is 1395.74 square meters. kilometers.

They are located at a distance:

• to Copenhagen – 1117 km;
• up to – 675 km;
• to Iceland – 450 km.

In total, the Faroe Islands archipelago consists of 18 large islands, large quantity small and isolated rocks. The largest from the group northern islands is Bora, which is quite densely populated (about 5 thousand people), and has an area of ​​95 square meters. kilometers. It is home to the second largest city in the Faroe Islands, Klaksvik.

On the island of Esturoy there is the most high point Faroe - Slattaratindur peak, whose height is 882 meters above sea level. There are fjords along all the islands, so their coastline is very indented. The land surface is mostly rocky, consisting of basalt. Here high slopes alternate with plateaus. They are separated by deep gorges.

Fauna and flora of the Faroe Islands

Due to strong winds that blow constantly, there are few forests here. But strong conifers, maple and ash still grow, and lichens and moss, and heather are also very common.

The fauna of the Faroe Islands is represented by large colonies of Arctic birds – guillemots, harp seal rookeries, and it is also rich in fish - cod, herring, halibut.

A breed of sheep called Faroese lives here, hence the name of the island. Sheep of this breed appeared in the 9th century and became an integral part of the local tradition. Their image is on the Faroese coat of arms. The breed is mainly raised for meat, but, as mentioned above, wool is also used for the production of shawls.

Facts from the history of the Faroe Islands

• Until the 14th century, the Faroe Islands belonged to Norway, then Norway and Denmark owned them jointly. And since 1814 the islands became Danish. Their inhabitants are descended from Scandinavian peoples, and their language is from ancient Norwegian dialects.
• During World War II, the Faroe Islands were taken under British military control. This happened in 1940 after Nazi troops invaded Denmark. After this, the island's elected body Logting achieved the power to pass laws, and the flag of the Faroe Islands received official recognition. In September 1945, the occupation regime was lifted.
• In 1946, a vote was held among the island population, as a result of which parliament announced secession from the Kingdom of Denmark. However, the Danish government did not recognize this decision and temporarily suspended the work of the Faroese parliament. As a result of the parliamentary struggle, an agreement was signed in April 1948, according to which the islands were given sovereignty, with restrictions on the conduct of foreign policy. Two delegates to the Danish Parliament were elected from the local parliament.
• In 1984, the Faroe Islands were declared nuclear weapon free zone. Today it houses a NATO radar complex and a Danish naval base.

Transport in the Faroe Islands

There are sea, automobile transport and aviation with one airport – Vagar.

Aviation

The national air carrier, Atlantic Airways, provides regular service to:

• Norway – Stavanger and Oslo;
• Denmark - Billun, Aalborg, Copenhagen;
• Iceland - ;
• Great Britain - London, Aberdeen, Shetland.

There is regular helicopter service between Tórshavn and outlying islands with small populations.

Sea communication

Due to its island location, the main mode of transport is sea. Ferries run between the islands. The national sea carrier is Smyril Line. The marine terminal is located in Tórshavn.

Motor transport

In total, the islands have about 500 kilometers of roads. Most of them are mountain serpentine. Since the second half of the twentieth century, large tunnels have been built here, which connect individual settlements. The longest road tunnel is the Noroya tunnel.

How to get to the Faroe Islands

The best way to get to the Faroe Islands is by plane to the capital Tórshavn with a transfer:

• via Denmark from Copenhagen or
• via Norway from Bergen or Stavanger.

In summer, you can travel from Bergen, Norway, to Tórshavn by ferry.

Note! In order to get to the Faroe Islands, Russian citizens will need a visa, which is issued by the Danish Embassy in the consular section. It must be marked “valid for Faroe Islands”.

Sights of the capital Faroe Islands

The city of Tórshavn was founded in the 10th century and named after the god of thunder and lightning - Thor. Tórshavn is a picturesque, thriving city. It is unlike other capitals. Its dignity is not majestic buildings, but the untouched surrounding nature of amazing beauty and a sense of solitude and peace.

Here it is Main Cathedral , which, like most churches on the islands, belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. It was built in 1788 and then rebuilt. It became a cathedral and the bishop's residence in 1990. It preserves such unique items as a baptismal font dating back to the end of the 16th century, and a crucifix from the beginning of the 18th century.

And also in the capital there is a Lutheran Western Church. It is 40.5 meters high and is the tallest building in the entire archipelago. The year of its construction is 1975. The base of the church building is made of basalt stone, on which there is a dome in the form of a pyramid made of glass and copper. In front of the entrance to the church there is a monument to Sigmundur Brestisson, who began the Christianization of the population of the islands, for which he was killed in 1005.

It is also worth paying attention to the ancient monastery Munkastovan, built in the 15th century and surrounded by stone walls. It was completely preserved despite the fire in the 17th century.

Another attraction of the capital is the main island Historical Museum. It presents examples of applied art, objects of worship, rural life, and household utensils that have been preserved since the times of the Vikings. And also marine accessories: fishing gear, navigation tools and ship models.

Main cultural center Tórshavn is Nordic House. Its roof is covered with peat. It houses a concert hall, a conference hall, an art gallery, and a library. Here, in summer nights Events called Faroese evenings are held for tourists.

Faroe Islands attractions

The most mountainous of all the islands Faroe is Kalsa. Its western coast is continuous with steep cliffs. There are four small settlements on the island, which communicate with each other through a system of tunnels. There are many caves and underground galleries here, for which Kalsa is also called Flut, that is, “flute”. In the north of the island there is the Katlur lighthouse, near which you can see picturesque cliffs and a naturally formed sea arch.

To the north of the village of Skarvanes there is a sea rock of original shape Trötlkonufingur, which means "Troll Woman's Finger". It really resembles a graceful long finger.

The least mountainous of the Faroe Islands is Sandoy, on which sand dunes are located. There are two lakes with clear water here. A colony of guillemots has settled in the west. There is a church on the island. A view of Sandøy is featured on the Faroe Islands 1000 kroner note.

On the island Fugloy, or Bird Island, there are cliffs with a height of 450 to 620 meters. They descend from plateaus located on picturesque mountain ranges, and are completely covered with a carpet of Arctic grasses and mosses. These cliffs are home to numerous colonies of seabirds, numbering many millions.

The Faroe Islands have an amazing landscape, and the location and climate, which contribute to the excellent play of light, attract photographers from all over the world. According to the famous magazine National Geographic Traveler, the Faroe Islands are the most unique islands in the world.

Faroe Islands Denmark

The Faroe Islands are an archipelago consisting of 18 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. If the name of the islands is literally translated from Faroese, it sounds like “Sheep Islands”. The islands are located between Scotland and the island of Iceland in the North Atlantic. The Faroe Islands, although they belong to the Kingdom of Denmark, are an autonomous region and make independent decisions in almost all matters.

Faroe islands. Village in the west of Vijoi island

Getting to the Faroe Islands

And getting to the islands is not difficult, but you cannot do without a transfer. From Moscow or St. Petersburg, you first need to fly to, about 2 hours of flight. Next to Vagar Airport - this is the only airport in the Faroe Islands, and also an international one. The best way to get to the Faroe Islands is with SAS, which flies to the islands from Copenhagen 2-3 times a day. In addition, you can fly to Vagar Airport from Norway, Iceland, and the UK. You can also take a ferry to Tórshavn from Huntsholm Denmark, from the Shetland Islands, Seydisfjörður Iceland, and in the summer from Bergen Norway.

Faroe islands. Uninhabited island of Luitla Duimun

A little bit of history

The first settlers of the Faroe Islands came from Scotland; they lived here from the 8th – 9th centuries and left them due to Viking raids. The Vikings made the Faroe Islands a transport link that connected Iceland, Scandinavia and Greenland, and for a short time also North America. Until the 14th century, the Faroe Islands were part of Norway, and since 1814 they began to belong to Denmark. Because of this, the descendants of the local inhabitants are Scandinavians, and the Faroese language originated from the Old Norse language. In 1946, the Faroe Islands announced it would secede from Denmark, but a divided vote and opinion poll halted the decision. In 1948, a new agreement was adopted in which the Faroe Islands received limited sovereignty. Since 1984, the Faroe Islands have been declared a nuclear weapons free zone.
Faroe islands. Tórshavn

Visa to Faroe Islands

If you want to visit the Faroe Islands, you need a visa, which is issued by the consular section of the Danish Embassy. Despite their northern location, the islands have unique climate– warm winter, the coldest month is January with temperatures from 0 to +4 degrees, and cold wet summer, the warmest month is July with temperatures from +11 to +17 degrees. There is quite a lot of precipitation, here it occurs about 280 days a year and almost all of it is in the form of rain, most of it occurs from September to January, and fogs are also frequent. And thanks to the tropical Gulf Stream, the temperature in the ocean is always about +10 degrees, which provides ideal conditions for the life of a variety of fish.

Faroe islands. North West Coast Esturoy Islands

The Faroe Islands consist of 18 large islands, as well as numerous small islets and rocks. Most large island Faroe is Streymoy. The capital of the Faroe Islands, the city of Tórshavn, and the village of Vestmanna are located on this island. The second largest island of the archipelago is Esturoy. Here are located big cities Fuglafjordur, Runavik and Nes. The island is connected to the islands of Streymoy by a road bridge. Another large island is Voar, where the international airport of Vagar is located. The most densely populated island is Borøy; there are eight settlements here, one of which is considered the second largest in the Faroe Islands - Klaksvik. Luitla-Duimun – desert island of eighteen islands.
Faroe islands. Lake Sorvagsvatn on the Vagar Islands

There are quite a lot of attractions in the Faroe Islands. Of course, the main attraction of the Faroe Islands can be confidently called the landscape. Cliffs, rocks, green fields, ocean, sun, fog and clouds touching the ground create amazing landscapes that will not leave even the most fastidious travelers indifferent. What else to see in the Faroe Islands besides nature?
Faroe islands. Kalsoy Island

Kalsoy Island

It is worth visiting the island of Kalsoy - this is the most rocky island in the Faroe Islands. The entire western coast consists of rocky cliffs, and the settlements are connected by numerous tunnels. The island has many underground galleries and caves, which is why this island is often called “Flute”. In the north of the island, near the Katlur lighthouse, there is a natural sea arch and picturesque cliffs. If you want to observe numerous bird colonies, then you should go to Fugloy Island, which is called the “island of birds”. At Eistfelli the cliffs reach a height of 450 metres, and at Clubbin they reach a height of 620 metres.
Faroe islands. Church in the village of Sandur on Sandoy Island

Sandoy Island

Sandoy Island offers sand dunes and is the least rocky of all the islands. It is worth going to the village of Skupon, where above it on the terraces lie two beautiful lakes - Noroara-Halsavatn and Heimara-Halsavatn. In the village of Sandur there is a church that has a long and interesting story, starting from the 11th century. To the north of the village of Skarvanes is Tretlkonufingur - "Troll Woman's Finger" - a beautiful sea cliff.
Faroe islands. Road to the village of Skarvanes on Sandoy Island

Tórshavn

And, of course, visit the capital of the Faroe Islands - Tórshavn. Here you will find an ancient monastery, surrounded by a stone wall, built in the 15th century. The monastery is called Munkastovan. A historical museum that tells the history of the Faroe Islands. Norurlandahysi – Nordic House, this building with a turf roof is today used as a theater. Here they spend various exhibitions and there is a library. And in the summer, “Faroe evenings for tourists” are held at night.

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