Lake Sørvágsvatn in Faroe Islands 2025

Sørvágsvatn, also known as Leitisvatn, is the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, located on Vágar Island. Famous for an optical illusion that makes it appear as though it is floating above the ocean, the lake seems to tilt toward the sea from a distance. Despite the illusion, it is only 30 meters above sea level, with its waters draining into the ocean via a small waterfall. The lake spans six kilometers and is surrounded by stunning cliffs, making it a unique and surreal sight for visitors.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Sørvágsvatn is between April and September, when the Faroe Islands experience milder weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography. During May, June, and July, the extended daylight hours are perfect for capturing the stunning landscapes, with the opportunity to witness the midnight sun phenomenon. The period from late spring to early autumn is particularly favorable as winter brings harsher weather, with stronger winds and more rain. Ferries from Denmark provide easy access to the Faroe Islands during this time, making it the perfect window for your visit.

Optical Illusion

The optical illusion at Sørvágsvatn is created by a combination of factors such as the lake's elevation, the cliffs surrounding it, and the dramatic Bøsdalafossur waterfall that flows from the lake into the ocean. The waterfall plays a key role in the illusion, contributing to the appearance that the lake is floating above the ocean. The viewing angle is critical, as it makes the lake seem to be positioned hundreds of meters above the sea when, in reality, it is only about 30 meters above sea level. The Trælanípa cliff, located in the lake's northeast corner, offers a stunning vantage point for viewing this illusion on a hike.

Hiking Trails

There are several hiking routes around Lake Sørvágsvatn, including a 21-kilometer trail that circles the lake. One of the most popular hikes is to Trælanípa, a viewpoint that offers the best views of the lake's optical illusion. The hike from the nearest car park to Trælanípa takes 1-2 hours and requires a moderate level of fitness. From there, it's another 30 minutes to the lake. A shorter, 7.2 km roundtrip starting from Miðvágur village to Bøsdalafossur waterfall takes about 2.5 hours. The hike around the lake is more challenging, especially for small children. There is a 200 Danish Krone (DKK) entrance fee, and the site is open from 8 am.

Getting There

Lake Sørvágsvatn is easily accessible from Vágar Island Airport, just 2 km away. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to Miðvágur village, which is close to the lake. Public transportation can be difficult to find, so it's recommended to arrange transport in advance or join a guided tour. The walk from Miðvágur to the lake takes about an hour, leading to the spot where the Bøsdalafossur waterfall cascades from Lake Leitisvatn into the sea.

Accommodation

There are various accommodation options near Lake Sørvágsvatn, including hostels and hotels. The Lakehouse is just a ten-minute walk away, and Miðvágur village, 3 km from the lake, offers guesthouses and apartments; for those preferring to stay in other towns like Tórshavn, guided tours to Lake Sørvágsvatn are available.

Travelers' Tips

Michael Guglielmo from New Jersey, USA, shared with rove.me his experience visiting Lake Sørvágsvatn in the Faroe Islands during mid to late April. He described the overall weather as favorable, with daytime temperatures in the mid-40s°F and only one rainy day during his 11-day stay. Renting a car made travel convenient, as no drive in the Faroe Islands exceeds about 90 minutes. Michael chose to stay at a centralized location, which worked well for exploring the area.

Michael and his group hiked around Lake Sørvágsvatn, reaching both the lower viewpoint and the iconic optical illusion viewpoint on the ridge. He emphasized the importance of being cautious with the weather, especially wind and rain. "At the top, it was VERY windy," he explained, noting that the lack of barriers made it potentially dangerous. He advised against the hike in steady rain, as it could make trails dangerously slippery.

For future visitors, Michael recommended wearing sturdy hiking boots and being prepared for challenging conditions, even in good weather. "The wind on the walk back was steady and directly in our faces," he recalled, emphasizing the importance of safety and proper gear for enjoying this remarkable hike.

Safety Tips

Although Lake Sørvágsvatn appears much deeper due to its optical illusion, it is actually only about 5 meters deep. Swimming in the Faroe Islands' lakes or pools is typically cold year-round, so visitors should come prepared. For safety, it's advisable to research and seek local guidance or join a guided tour.

History

The name of the lake carries some local pride and distinction. Residents of Sørvágsvatn village refer to it by their village name, while people from nearby areas often call it Leitisvatn. Regardless of the name, the lake’s natural illusion remains unchanged. During World War II, the British army built an airfield to the west of the lake, which is now the site of Vágar Airport.

Attractions on the Faroe Islands

While exploring the Faroe Islands, several nearby attractions enhance the adventure. Múlafossur Waterfall, located on Vágar Island, is a breathtaking sight where water cascades into the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. In Tórshavn, the capital, visitors can stroll through colorful streets, visit the historic Tinganes district, and enjoy local Faroese cuisine. Mykines Island is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to puffins and stunning cliffs, while Kalsoy Island's Kallur Lighthouse provides a rewarding hike with dramatic ocean views. Each destination adds unique natural beauty and charm to the Faroe Islands experience.