Best time to travel to Faroe Islands

Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands 2024-2025

See aurora borealis on Faroes in the gloomy winter days to omit touristic seasons and witness the best views

Best time: late September–early March

Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands are a rare, fantastic phenomenon you can experience if you are lucky enough. Northern lights or aurora borealis show up mostly during the winter, weather permitting.

Northern Lights Forecast

Still, it cannot be guaranteed to be observable in any part of the islands since the weather during the winter usually varies. Meaning the northern lights often depend on clear skies. So keep a sharp eye on the weather forecast for the evenings or nights. Anyway, no reason to furrow your brows, as the trip can be supplemented with many exciting nature-based experiences on the Faroe Islands.

Best time to visit Faroe Islands to see Northern Lights

Though not a lot of tourists travel to such distant places as the Faroe Islands in the winter, February may very well be the perfect time to see the polar lights. Moreover, the hotels are mostly vacant, with plenty of options in bookings along with other good offers. During this time, the nights are the longest, and the sky is the darkest, which makes it an ideal combination.

Sornfelli

If you like to increase the prospects of witnessing polar lights, it makes sense to leave big towns as city lights can block the miracle, so if you happen to wind down in Torshavn, drive straight up 12 mi (20 km) to Sornfelli, a mountain plateau of Streymoy island. The view from there will definitely take your breath away.

Viðareiði & Hvannasund

If you prefer the northern islands, head to the northern part of the country. The coastal settlement of Viðareiði, or the village of Hvannasund, hits the spot perfectly. Stay in there until you witness the pure magic. The magnificent magic landscape is sure to enhance the experience you get, and we can promise you—the surprise of receiving a tourist in February on people's faces may be worth a lot.

Gásadalur

Gasadalur is a far-flung village on the island of Vagar, which until recently could only be reached by foot over the mountains. However, it can now be accessed by a car tunnel. While the main attraction in Gasadalur remains the beautiful Múlafossur waterfall, the village is also an excellent location for viewing the Northern Lights.

Gjógv

The northernmost village on Eysturoy, Gjógv, is another spectacular spot for observing aurora borealis. Located at the end of a deep valley with no other villages in sight, Gjógv promises a dark sky for a perfect Northern Lights viewing. Also, plan your time to enjoy The Sea Gorge and puffins by the deep gorge in the village.

Klaksvík

The second largest city in the Faroe Islands, with a rich fishing culture, is also a great area for the fantastic Northern Lights. Known for its amazing view of the pyramid-shaped Kunoyarnakki mountain, Klaksvík offers Northern Lights photos that are worth the visit. Additionally, guests can stop at Føroya Bjór, the oldest brewery in the Faroe Islands, which dates back to 1888 and offers a variety of beers and soft drinks.

Tjørnuvík

In Tjørnuvík, you can find no more than 55 houses, making it an excellent choice for viewing the Northern Lights due to the dark sky. For instance, you won't see the sun here in winter because of the high mountains that surround the village, blocking the sun's rays during this time. This iconic village, with a direct view of the sea stacks Risin & Kellingin, is a must-see spot in the Faroe Islands.

Eiði

Maybe you've heard about the famous football stadium nestled next to the Atlantic Ocean in the Faroe Islands. Eiði is home to this picturesque scenery and is also a perfect place to catch an aurora borealis. While visiting Eiði, you will also have a chance to observe two sea stacks, Risin & Kellingin, rock formations also known as the Giant and his Wife.

Vestmanna

Visitors to Vestmanna can easily enjoy stunning nature above the village. It is known for its soaring cliffs along the coastline, which attract most tourists. However, it's also a good choice if you want to enjoy the spectacular Northern Lights.

Funningur

Funningur is one of the quiet villages on the island of Eysturoy, located at the foot of Slettaratindur, the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands. It's an ideal destination for those dreaming of escaping the big city. The famous zigzag road leading to Funningur is one of the village's hallmarks. Additionally, Funningur offers a great vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights.

Practical info

When is it optimal to see the Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands?

Late September through early March is deemed to be the best time to observe the Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands. There are no assurances, and unclouded skies are essential to perceive the aurora. February is an excellent month to view the Northern Lights, with lengthy and dark nights.

What's the ideal location to watch the Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands?

Coastal areas in the northern part of the country are the best place to witness the Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands. Viðareiði or Hvannasund are excellent settlements for perceiving the aurora. Visitors can also travel to Sornfelli, a mountainous plateau on the Streymoy island, providing an incredible view of the Faroe Islands.

What are the determinants of the visibility of Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands?

Clear skies, space weather, and city lights are some factors that affect the visibility of the Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands. Unobstructed skies are vital for perceiving the aurora, and urban lights can impact the visibility. Tourists should check the weather forecast and space weather predictions to augment their chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

How can travelers enhance their odds of sighting the Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands?

Tourists should avoid metropolises and venture to areas outside towns to avoid disruptions caused by city lights, enhancing their likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights. Visitors should also review the weather and space weather forecasts before scheduling their trip. February is an excellent period to witness the Northern Lights, with lengthy and dark nights.

Apart from the Northern Lights, what other natural attractions can folks enjoy in the Faroe Islands during winter?

Apart from experiencing the Northern Lights, tourists can enjoy other winter festivities in the Faroe Islands. Winter events like Ólavsøka and Christmas Markets offer a range of activities. Hiking, fishing, and birdwatching are among the several winter activities available to tourists. During winter months, visitors can experience traditional Faroese cuisine and wander the picturesque landscapes.

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