Tjørnuvík in Faroe Islands 2023-2024
The northernmost village on the Streymoy Island and one of the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands
Best time: all year round
The northernmost village on Streymoy Island, Tjørnuvík, is also among the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands. Viking graves found in the area show that the village of Tjørnuvík was settled shortly after the first Vikings arrived on the island. Nestled in a deep valley surrounded on three sides by steep mountains and with no neighboring villages, Tjørnuvík offers a peaceful retreat on the edge of the North Atlantic Ocean.
With only about 55 houses, a black sand beach, and an iconic view of the Risin & Kellingin sea stacks, Tjørnuvík provides a beautiful glimpse of the north-beauty atmosphere of the traditional Faroese village.
Places and Activities in Tjørnuvík
Risin & Kellingin
Tjørnuvík offers its visitors a stunning view of the Risin & Kellingin sea stack while walking the beach. Risin & Kellingin is the basalt formations, translates to 'the Giant and his Wife' or 'the Giant and the Witch.' Risin towers 233 feet (71 meters) tall, while Kellingin reaches 226 feet (69 meters) above the ocean.
According to legend, these two stones were transformed into two giants who came from Iceland to drag the Faroe Islands back with a rope. Attempts to do so at night failed, and when the sun rose, the giants turned into two large stones looking towards Iceland.
Tjørnuvík and Saksun Trail
This 9-mile (14.5 km) trail is located between two picturesque villages and takes about 6-8 hours, depending on your health conditions and physical form. During the Tjørnuvík and Saksun trail, you will enjoy views of lagoons, a collection of cascades, turf-roofed cottages, and majestic sea stacks. The easiest way to reach Tjørnuvík is by renting a car or taking a tour. While public transport is available to Tjørnuvík, there is none to Saksun.
Other Places to See
Visitors can explore the village's charming red-roofed church or take a short drive to the nearby village of Haldórsvík. For a more active option, consider hiking up Mýlingur, a spiky mountain, which takes about 2 hours. Keep in mind, however, that Tjørnuvík has no grocery stores or cafes, so plan accordingly.
