Vágar is the third-largest island of the 18 Faroe Islands, after Streymoy and Eysturoy. There is plenty to do on the Faroe Islands and several attractions can be found on this island. In this article, you’ll learn more about the highlights of Vágar.
Bøur, the village with the best view on Vágar
The village of Bøur is definitely worth a stop during a tour around the island of Vágar. With only 65 residents, it’s small; you could easily drive past it. However, you probably won’t, as the view here is absolutely breathtaking. You’ll surely want to stop for some photos! From Bøur, located on the western side of Vágar, you’ll look out over Sørvágsfjørður. This fjord features the island of Tindhólmur and the famous rock formations of Drangarnir. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful views, especially during sunset. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the small village to soak up some of the Faroese atmosphere. Want to get a closer look at Drangarnir? Check out this boat tour. Want to enjoy this view for longer, both at sunset and sunrise? Be sure to take a look at this fantastic accommodation in Bøur: The View.
Tindhólmur lookout, a stunning panorama from Vágar
I mentioned the small island above: Tindhólmur. If you drive from Bøur towards the further village of Gásadalur, you’ll pass a beautiful lookout point. From this spot, you’ll have a great view of Tindhólmur. For many people, the island might not be recognizable, as it’s usually photographed from the other side. It’s even more fun to stop here. While driving on road 45, just before the tunnel to Gásadalur, you’ll find an unpaved turn-off to the left. Drive down this road and you’ll come to a small gravel parking area. From here, the view is absolutely breathtaking!
Skarðsáfossur, a hidden waterfall on Vágar
Not far from the lookout point mentioned above lies the waterfall Skarðsáfossur. However, this waterfall is not accessible by foot, as the surrounding land is private property. You can only admire Skarðsáfossur from the water. Fortunately, there are several boat tours available that sail past this hidden waterfall.
Admire the beautiful Múlafossur waterfall
A waterfall that is easily accessible is Múlafossur. With a drop of 30 meters, Múlafossur is one of the most photographed waterfalls on the Faroe Islands. In strong winds, the water flow can be blown completely sideways or even back onto the cliffs. From the small village of Gásadalur, you can hike to the viewpoint near the waterfall.
Gásadalur, from isolated village to accessible spot
Don’t forget to visit Gásadalur itself when you’re in the area to see Múlafossur. For a long time, Gásadalur was one of the most remote places on the Faroe Islands, until the tunnel was opened in 2006. Before that, the village, with around 25 houses, could only be reached via a coastal path (The Postman’s Trail), by boat or by helicopter. On a clear day, you can hike a considerable way up Árnafjall, the highest mountain on the Faroe Islands at 722 meters.
Spotting puffins on Vágar
Puffin spotting on the Faroe Islands is possible roughly between May and August, at several different locations. The steep cliffs on the northern side of Árnafjall are one of those spots. From Gásadalur, you can hike up this mountain. It’s a challenging hike, so it’s wise to gather the necessary information about the right route before you embark on this adventure.
Sørvágsvatn (Leitisvatn), hike to the higher lake above sea level
One activity on the island of Vágar that you definitely should do is the hike along Sørvágsvatn, the high-altitude lake also known as Leitisvatn. From the sloping rock of Trælanípa, you’ll have an incredible view of the lake and the surrounding islands.
Kálvalíð Museum in Miðvágur
Looking to visit a museum? Then the Kálvalíð Museum in Miðvágur is a must-see. Kálvalíð is one of the first local museums established on the Faroe Islands. The museum is housed in the old Kálvalíð house, one of the oldest Faroese houses. Since the mid-17th century, it has been home to clergymen and widows of clergymen. Today, the local parish owns the house.
Many stories surround the widows of Kálvalíð, but the most well-known is that of Beinta Broberg. Beinta was born in the 17th century into a wealthy family in Tórshavn and married three clergymen. She earned the nickname “Illa Beinta” (Angry Beinta) and was accused of murdering her first two husbands and driving her third husband to madness. In Miðvágur, where she lived for twenty years, her name remained infamous for a long time; for centuries, no girl was named Beinta.
Sandavágur Church (Sandavágs Kirkja) in Sandavágur
In the village of Sandavágur on Vágar stands the colorful Sandavágs Kirkja, considered by many locals to be the most beautiful church in the Faroe Islands. Due to its colors, the church is nicknamed the gingerbread church. The church was built at the end of World War I. Be sure to stop by if you’re in Sandavágur or on your way to Leitisvatn for the hike.
Trøllkonufingur, the legendary finger of the witch on Vágar
One of the most beautiful spots on the Faroe Islands is Trøllkonufingur (translation: finger of the witch or finger of the troll woman). This sea stack is located on the southeast side of Sandavágur and is visible from several places. According to legend, Trøllkonufingur is the petrified finger of a witch who planned to throw the Faroe Islands into Iceland. When she reached the sea south of Vágar, the sun rose, turning her into stone and causing her to fall into the ocean. Over the years, various climbers have attempted to scale the 313-meter-high sea stack (or monolith). So far, only 11 climbers have managed to reach the top. From the village of Miðvágur, you have a great view of Trøllkonufingur.
Hidden gem along the south coast of Vágar: Dunnesdrangar
If you’re up for a spectacular hike with a guide to a place considered one of the best-kept secrets of the Faroe Islands, be sure to check out this hike to Dunnesdrangar. This spot along the south coast of Vágar features two sea stacks, hidden in a small cove. The hike takes about an hour and is easy, but it must be done with a guide.
Best way to explore the Faroe Island of Vágar
The best way to explore Vágar is by renting a car. Be sure to reserve one before your trip, so it’s ready for you upon arrival at the airport. It’s important to book a car with all-in insurance, ensuring you’re fully covered without any hassle or extra local insurance fees. This way, you can drive around the Faroe Islands with peace of mind, knowing your own risk will be reimbursed, even if you’re responsible for the damage.
