Eysturoy

Eysturoy is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs. It is also home to the Faroese village of Funningur, the iconic mountain Slættaratindur (the highest peak in the Faroes), and several picturesque coastal villages.

Eysturoy is easily accessible by car through the Eysturoytunnilin (Eysturoy Tunnel), which connects it to Streymoy Island. There are also ferries connecting to nearby islands, making it easy to travel around the Faroe Islands.

Key towns and villages on Eysturoy include Runavík, the largest town on the island, and smaller villages like Funningur, Gøta, and Norðragøta, which are known for their picturesque settings and traditional Faroese architecture.

Slættaratindur is the highest mountain on Eysturoy and also the highest peak in the Faroe Islands, standing at 882 meters (2,894 feet). It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and seas. 

Yes, Eysturoy offers several excellent hiking trails, including the popular hike to Slættaratindur, which rewards hikers with stunning views. There are also other hikes, such as those around the village of Funningur, offering views of the valleys and cliffs. 

Yes, Eysturoy is a great place for birdwatching. The cliffs and coastal areas are home to seabirds like puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. The island’s natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Some key attractions include Slættaratindur, the village of Funningur with its historic church and picturesque setting, the coastal cliffs, and the stunning views from the Eysturoytunnilin. The area is also known for its rugged landscapes and dramatic coastal scenery.

Eysturoy is relatively small, and it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive from one end of the island to the other, though you may want to spend a whole day exploring its villages, mountains, and scenic viewpoints.

Eysturoy experiences a subarctic maritime climate, with cool temperatures year-round. Winters are cold and wet, with frequent rain, snow, and wind, while summers are cool and mild. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for rain and fog.

Yes, Eysturoy offers good opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights during the winter months, especially in more remote areas away from light pollution, like the village of Funningur or higher-altitude spots.

To reach Eysturoy from Tórshavn, you can drive via the Eysturoytunnilin (Eysturoy Tunnel), which takes you directly from the capital on Streymoy Island to Eysturoy in about 20 minutes.

Funningur is one of the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands, known for its picturesque setting at the base of steep mountains. The village is famous for its historic church, traditional grass-roofed houses, and stunning views of the surrounding fjords. 

Yes, Eysturoy has several historical sites, such as the ancient church in Funningur, which dates back to the 19th century. The island is also rich in Faroese culture, with many traditional grass-roofed houses still in use today. 

In addition to seabirds, Eysturoy is home to various species of land animals, including sheep, rabbits, and foxes. The island’s coastal areas also provide a habitat for seals and other marine life.

The best time to visit Eysturoy is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is milder, and you can experience the longest days and the full beauty of the island. However, winter also offers opportunities to see the Northern Lights and experience a quieter, more serene atmosphere.

Eysturoy is quite accessible. It is connected to the rest of the Faroe Islands by the Eysturoytunnilin (Eysturoy Tunnel), and its roads are well-maintained. There are also accommodations and services available in towns like Runavík and Funningur.

Yes, there are ferry routes that connect Eysturoy with nearby islands like Nólsoy and Sandoy. These ferries provide convenient access to the other islands in the Faroe Islands archipelago. 

Yes, you can drive around the entire island, though certain areas, such as the mountain roads to Slættaratindur, may be more challenging. The island’s roads are generally well-maintained, and the drive offers stunning views of the coast and mountains.

While Eysturoy doesn’t have large museums, you can explore local history at the small museums and historical sites in villages like Funningur, which has an old church and traditional houses that showcase Faroese heritage.

Eysturoy has a varied terrain, featuring steep mountain slopes, lush valleys, coastal cliffs, and small fjords. The island’s dramatic landscapes are perfect for hiking and photography, offering a range of scenery from rugged mountains to peaceful coastal villages.

Families can enjoy easy hikes, visit the coastal cliffs, explore the villages, and take scenic drives around the island. The natural beauty of Eysturoy makes it a great destination for outdoor activities, with opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and exploring traditional Faroese villages.

Slættaratindur is about a 30-minute drive from Runavík. From the village of Funningur, the hike to the summit of Slættaratindur takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on your pace.

Yes, Gøta is a charming village on Eysturoy, and it’s a great place to visit for its scenic beauty, historical buildings, and views of the fjord. The village is known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional Faroese culture.

Eysturoy’s economy is based on fishing, sheep farming, and tourism. The island has a strong maritime heritage, with several fish processing plants, and agriculture is a significant part of rural life. 

Yes, Eysturoy hosts various local events, including cultural festivals, concerts, and traditional Faroese celebrations. The island’s communities often come together for events like Ólavsøka (Faroese National Day) and other seasonal festivities.

Eysturoy has a population of about 10,000 people, with the largest town being Runavík. The island has several small villages that maintain traditional Faroese ways of life. 

Yes, there are various accommodations on Eysturoy, including hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options, particularly in towns like Runavík and Funningur. Many places offer stunning views of the mountains or fjords.

The hike up Slættaratindur is one of the most popular, offering spectacular views of the surrounding islands. Other great hikes include those in the valleys of Funningur and around the coastal cliffs of the island. 

Runavík has a number of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy traditional Faroese dishes like skerpikjøt (dried mutton) and fresh fish. In smaller villages like Funningur, you can find more traditional or family-owned eateries offering local fare.

Public buses are available on Eysturoy, connecting various villages and towns. Alternatively, taxis and guided tours can be arranged if you prefer not to drive.