Vágar
Learn More About Vágar
Vágar is the western gateway to the Faroe Islands, and for many travelers, it is the first place they see when arriving by air, as the island is home to the only airport in the Faroes. It shares the same raw coastal beauty and ever-changing skies we know from Iceland, yet it surprises with its dramatic cliffs, deep lakes, and colorful villages.
One of the most iconic sights in the Faroe Islands is found here: Trælanípa and the lake of Sørvágsvatn. When viewed from the cliffs, the lake appears to hang above the ocean, creating a striking illusion that has become one of the most photographed places in the Faroes. The hike to Trælanípa is not difficult and rewards visitors with sweeping views of both the lake and the open Atlantic.
Vágar is also home to the famous Múlafossur Waterfall, near the village of Gásadalur. Until a tunnel was built in 2004, Gásadalur was one of the most isolated villages in the Faroes, reachable only on foot over the mountains. Today, the drive is easy, and the view of the waterfall plunging straight into the ocean remains one of the most breathtaking scenes in the islands.
The villages of Bøur and Sandavágur are also highlights. Bøur is known for its charming turf-roofed houses and wide views over the islets of Tindhólmur and Drangarnir. Sandavágur has a striking red church and a history that stretches back to Viking times, with runic stones discovered in the area.
For hiking enthusiasts, Vágar offers some of the best trails in the Faroes, from coastal routes to high ridges with panoramic views. Birdwatchers and photographers will also find the island rewarding, as puffins, fulmars, and other seabirds are common along the cliffs.
While many visitors pass quickly through Vágar after landing, those who stay discover an island full of natural wonders, history, and welcoming villages. It is a place where the spirit of the Faroes is immediately felt, making it not just a starting point but a destination in its own right.
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Most Common Questions About Vagar in the Faroe Islands
How do you get to Vágar island?
Vágar is the most accessible of all the Faroese islands since it is home to Vágar Airport, the only airport in the Faroe Islands. International visitors usually land here first before continuing their journey. The island is also connected to Streymoy by the subsea Vágar Tunnel, making it possible to drive from Tórshavn to Vágar in about 45 minutes.
What makes Vágar famous among visitors?
Vágar is well known for its dramatic scenery and world-famous landmarks. The island is home to Sørvágsvatn Lake with the spectacular Trælanípa viewpoint, the Múlafossur Waterfall at Gásadalur, and the traditional villages of Bøur and Sandavágur. These locations are among the most photographed in the Faroes.
Can you hike to Sørvágsvatn Lake and Trælanípa?
Yes, the hike to Sørvágsvatn Lake and the Trælanípa viewpoint is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Faroes. The walk takes about two hours round-trip and is considered moderate. From the cliffs, visitors see the famous optical illusion of the lake appearing to float above the sea.
Where is Múlafossur Waterfall, and how do you get there?
Múlafossur Waterfall is located just outside the village of Gásadalur. Once one of the most isolated places in the Faroes, Gásadalur is now accessible by car through a tunnel built in 2004. The waterfall plunges directly into the ocean and has become one of the most iconic sights in the North Atlantic.
Are guided tours available on Vágar?
Yes, guided tours are widely available on Vágar. Options include hiking tours to Trælanípa, photography tours focused on Múlafossur and the surrounding cliffs, and cultural tours in villages like Sandavágur, where visitors learn about Viking history.
What villages should I visit on Vágar?
Each village on Vágar has its own appeal. Bøur is famous for its turf-roofed houses and stunning views of Tindhólmur and Drangarnir. Sandavágur is home to a striking red church and Viking runestones. Gásadalur is known for its waterfall and mountain setting, while Sørvágur has a lively harbor atmosphere.
Can you see puffins on Vágar island?
Yes, puffins nest on the cliffs of Vágar during the summer months. Along with puffins, visitors may spot fulmars, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Birdwatching tours often include boat trips or guided walks to the best bird cliffs on the island.
How long should I plan to stay on Vágar?
Many visitors explore Vágar on a day trip, but staying two to three days is ideal for experiencing more of the island. This allows time to enjoy hikes, visit several villages, and take boat tours around the sea stacks and cliffs. Longer stays also provide the chance to enjoy the island’s quieter side after day-trippers have left.
What is the best time of year to visit Vágar?
The best time to visit Vágar is from May to September when the weather is milder, the days are long, and hiking routes are open. Summer is also the best season for birdwatching and boat tours. Spring and autumn bring fewer visitors and beautiful light for photography, while winter offers dramatic weather and raw scenery.
Is Vágar suitable for family tours?
Yes, Vágar is very family-friendly. Children can enjoy shorter hikes such as the trail to Sørvágsvatn Lake, and the villages provide safe environments for exploring. The waterfall in Gásadalur and the Bøur views are popular with families traveling together.
Can you take boat tours around Vágar?
Yes, boat tours are highly recommended. These tours sail around the cliffs, sea stacks, and islets such as Drangarnir and Tindhólmur. Seeing Múlafossur Waterfall from the water and passing under dramatic rock formations provides a different perspective of Vágar.
What cultural attractions are found on Vágar?
Sandavágur is rich in Viking heritage, with runestones discovered in the village and a church that is one of the most recognizable in the islands. Traditional turf-roofed houses can still be seen in Bøur. Local festivals and community gatherings also give visitors insight into Faroese culture on Vágar.
Do Vágar tours run all year?
Yes, tours operate throughout the year. Although weather conditions can be unpredictable in winter, the island’s dramatic cliffs and crashing waves are unforgettable. Summer remains the most popular time for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor photography.
Why should travelers include Vágar in their Faroe Islands itinerary?
Vágar offers some of the most iconic sights in the Faroes and is easy to access by plane or car. From Múlafossur Waterfall and Sørvágsvatn Lake to historic villages and boat tours around Drangarnir, the island perfectly introduces Faroese nature and culture. Whether staying for a day or several nights, Vágar is a destination that leaves lasting impressions.