Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, Leynar and Kvívík in Faroe Islands

Tórshavn , Denmark

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, Leynar and Kvívík in Faroe Islands

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About this experience

The boat glides near towering cliffs where puffins chatter and guillemots growl. A puffin dives, emerging with fish before soaring 600 meters up. Below, a seal curiously watches. Just beyond Vestmanna’s harbor, we explore one of Europe’s most impressive bird cliffs.

Departing from Tórshavn, this two-hour boat tour offers incredible views of seabirds nesting on sheer basalt walls, sailing between towering rock formations and deep caves sculpted by the sea. Along the way, the guide shares stories of ships seeking shelter and pirates raiding Vestmanna.

The tour also includes a visit to Leynar, home to a white sandy beach, colorful houses, and wild salmon leaping up its river. Next, we explore Kvívík, one of the first Viking settlements, where ancient ruins reveal early Faroese life.

Available options

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, Leynar and Kvívík in Faroe Islands

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Boat ride ticket

Detailed itinerary

Explore the village Vestmanna and hear stories and legends from the past from your guide.

The boat trip along the bird cliffs of Vestmanna takes about 2 hours, offering ample opportunity to observe and photograph a variety of breeding seabirds against the backdrop of the stunning vertical cliffs. The journey takes you as close to the cliffs as the weather permits, weaving between basalt columns that rise from the sea and into deep caves carved by the ocean’s fury over millions of years.
While sailing the guide shares tales of ships seeking shelter from storms in Vestmanna throughout history, as well as stories of pirates who repeatedly raided this village due to its easy access and secluded location.

The village of Kvívík is believed to be one of the first places settled in the Faroe Islands. Close to the sea, the remains of two Viking houses, over 1,000 years old, have been excavated. They found ideal conditions for settlement here: Easy access to and from the sea, slopes suitable for growing crops, and access to fresh water. Stórá river cascades through the village, generating electricity to power the municipal buildings of the village. The houses are closely packed in the deep valley, catching the morning sun, with views of Vágar, Koltur, Sandoy, and Hestoy.

This tour also includes a visit to the quaint village of Leynar, one of the few Faroese villages with a white sandy beach. The colorful houses are nestled on the slope, overlooking the beach, the north side of Vágar, the protected island of Koltur, and the village of Kvívík.

Locally, Leynar’s beach is regarded as a sort of Copacabana. It’s not uncommon for the sun to shine from a clear blue sky over Leynar, even on days when thick summer fog envelops Tórshavn, quickly filling the beach with happy children and sun-seeking adults. After rainy summer days, hordes of wild salmon can be seen swimming up the steps in Leynar River.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN DA

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tórshavn

Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, is a charming and colorful city known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Viking heritage. Nestled between towering mountains and the North Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Tinganes

Tinganes is a historic area in Tórshavn where the Faroese Parliament, the Løgting, has been located since the Viking Age. It's known for its traditional turf-roofed houses and scenic views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Føroya Fornminnissavn

The National Museum of the Faroe Islands showcases the history and culture of the Faroe Islands, from Viking times to the present day.

Museum 1-2 hours DKK 100 (USD 15)

Sundini

Sundini is a narrow strait that separates the islands of Streymoy and Eysturoy. It's known for its stunning views, birdlife, and the iconic Risin og Kellingin sea stacks.

Nature Half-day Free (boat tours cost around DKK 500-700 or USD 75-105)

Faroese Craft and Design

A shop and gallery showcasing traditional and contemporary Faroese crafts and design, including wool products, jewelry, and art.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Nordic House

The Nordic House in Tórshavn is a cultural center that promotes Nordic cooperation and hosts exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some events may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gravlaks

Cured salmon marinated in a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill, typically served with mustard sauce and bread.

Appetizer Contains fish

Ræst Kjøt

Fermented lamb, a traditional Faroese dish that has a strong, unique flavor. It's often served with blood pudding and potatoes.

Main Course Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians

Fiskur og Grøns

Fish and greens, a traditional Faroese dish that consists of fish (usually cod or haddock) served with boiled greens and potatoes.

Main Course Contains fish

Pylsur

Faroese hot dogs, typically made with local lamb sausage and served with onions, ketchup, and mustard.

Snack Contains lamb, gluten (in the bun)

Popular Activities

Hiking Birdwatching Boat tours Kayaking Cliff jumping Visiting museums Exploring historic sites Shopping

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Tórshavn for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the Faroe Islands.

8°C to 12°C 46°F to 54°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Faroese, Danish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Danish Krone (DKK)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tórshavn is a very safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and guides.
• Be cautious when using taxis, and ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Vágar Airport • 30 km (19 miles) from Tórshavn

By bus

Tórshavn Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in the Faroe Islands. They are reliable and cover most of the main islands.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi companies can be called directly

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Havn Reykjavík Kollafjørður

Day trips

Mykines

30 km (19 miles) from Tórshavn • Full day

Mykines is a small, remote island known for its stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and puffin colonies. It's a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Kalsoy

20 km (12 miles) from Tórshavn • Full day

Kalsoy is a picturesque island known for its stunning coastal cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and traditional villages. It's a great destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Faroe Islands.

Klaksvík

60 km (37 miles) from Tórshavn • Half day to full day

Klaksvík is the second-largest town in the Faroe Islands, known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and scenic views. It's a great destination for those interested in Faroese history and culture.

Festivals

Ólavsøka • Late July G! Festival • Early August Faroe Islands Film Festival • Mid-September

Pro tips

Visit the historic Tinganes area and the Løgtingið (Parliament Building) for a glimpse into the Faroe Islands' Viking past.
Try traditional Faroese dishes like gravlaks (cured salmon) and ræst kjøt (fermented lamb) at local restaurants.
Explore the scenic Sundini strait and the iconic Risin og Kellingin sea stacks on a boat tour.
Shop for local crafts and souvenirs at Faroese Craft and Design or the Tórshavn Market.
Experience the vibrant culture of the Faroe Islands at the Nordic House or during local festivals and events.