The Faroe Islands, an Atlantic archipelago almost equidistant from Iceland, Norway and Scotland, were created around 60 million years ago by volcanic eruptions, which explains their stark and sharp topography. An early visitor may have been the Irish monk St. Brendan in the sixth century, who described an “island of the sheep” and a “paradise of birds.” Vikings from Norway settled permanently in the ninth century and, in 1035, the Faroes were absorbed by the Kingdom of Norway. Subsequently, they became part of the dual Denmark–Norway kingdom until its dissolution in 1814. Following a referendum on independence in 1946, the Faroes were granted autonomy, while remaining a part of Denmark.

Prior to a visit, it’s a good idea to plot a daily itinerary and to make necessary reservations (including a rental car). Some activities can be done independently, but many need a guide or the help of a local company. For those that require a local operator, we recommend MM Tours.

Be sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes, a windbreaker, a hat and lightweight foul-weather gear, because the weather can change dramatically during the course of a day. Pack clothing that can be layered, including fleece wear. And bring all the photography equipment and supplies you may need, as prices in the Faroes are often much higher than those in the United States.

Things on no account to miss:

Gjógv

This tiny traditional village has houses with timber walls and turf roofs and is set around a deep gorge on the island of Eysturoy. It is one of the most atmospheric of all the Faroese settlements; the surrounding scenery is spectacular.