Faroe Islands lakes are a treasure trove of natural beauty, and my 8-day hiking road trip across the Faroe Islands was a testament to this. I was utterly captivated by the sheer beauty of these lakes, each nestled amidst rugged mountains and cascading waterfalls.
This blog post serves as your guide to exploring these hidden gems, where every lake tells a unique story, deeply etched into the very landscape of the Faroe Islands.
For the adventure traveler with a thirst for outdoor activities, these lakes offer more than just breathtaking views. They are gateways to discovering the islands’ most stunning coastlines and viewpoints.
Drawing from my personal journey, I’ll share insights and tips to help you navigate these enchanting waters, ensuring your adventure in the Faroe Islands is as magical as the islands themselves.
Map of the best lakes on the faroe islands
How to use this map: You can zoom in or out by using your mouse or your fingers. Click on the little pictures to learn more about each place. There’s an arrow on the top left corner – click it to see a list of all the places on the map. If you want to keep this map, click the star near the map’s title. This adds it to your Google Maps. To look at this map later on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click on the menu, and go to “Your Places/Maps.” And if you want to print the map of the Faroe Islands Lakes or see it bigger, click on “View Larger Map” at the top corner.
5 Best faroe islands lakes
1.Lake Sørvágsvatn
Nestled on Vágar Island, Lake Sørvágsvatn, also known as Leitisvatn, is a crown jewel among the Faroe Islands lakes. It holds the title of the largest lake in this archipelago, spanning an impressive 3.6 square kilometers.
Sitting about 30 meters (around 100 feet) above sea level, this enchanting lake stretches a full 6 km from one end to the other. It’s a natural wonder, conveniently located near Vágar Airport and cradled between the quaint villages of Miðvágur and Sørvágur.
Surrounded by verdant mountains, Lake Sørvágsvatn is not only a sanctuary for diverse fauna but also presents a mesmerizing optical illusion from the vantage point of Trælanípan cliff, where it seems to magically float above the ocean.
How To Get To Lake Sørvágsvatn
Accessing Lake Sandsvatn is straightforward. You can drive to either Sandur or Skopun, the nearest villages, and find several spots around the lake for starting your exploration.
The area is also accessible by public transport, with buses serving both villages.
Parking: Midvágur car park
Entrance: 200 DKK per person
Outdoor Activities Around Lake Sørvágsvatn
Kayaking on Lake Sandsvatn is a delightful way to experience its tranquility and natural beauty.
The lake’s calm waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers. Fishing enthusiasts will also find this lake a perfect spot for a peaceful day of fishing.
Places To Stay Near Lake Sørvágsvatn
In the Faroe Islands, near Lake Sørvágsvatn, Sandur offers peaceful accommodations surrounded by stunning landscapes, ideal for nature lovers, while Skopun provides charming stays near its lively harbor, perfect for experiencing authentic island life.
Check out: Kayaking Tour Lake Sørvágsvatn
2.Lake Fjallavatn
Nestled in the mountains of Vágar Island, close to the villages of Sørvágur and Vatnsoyrar and near Vágar Airport, lies Fjallavatn, the Faroe Islands’ second-largest lake.
Spanning over 1.03 square kilometers, this serene lake is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored by true mountain wanderers.
How To Get To Lake Fjallavatn
The journey to Fjallavatn begins in the quaint village of Vatnsoyrar. The trailhead, easily spotted by the presence of campers, marks the start of an adventure through peaceful nature.
Parking: Head towards the airport and turn right onto the signed road. Continue for a short distance until the road’s condition worsens. You’ll then find a small parking bay on the right side of the road.
Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as the path includes a river crossing. The hike, taking about 2-3 hours each way, rewards you with pristine views and an escape into tranquility.
Outdoor Activities Around Lake Fjallavatn
Summer at Fjallavatn is a hiker’s paradise, especially popular for witnessing both sunrise and sunset within a short span.
The trail leads to the lake’s shoreline, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Víkar bay. Here, if luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of orcas and seals in their natural habitat.
Places To Stay Near Lake Fjallavatn
While there are no immediate accommodations by Fjallavatn, the nearby villages of Sørvágur and Vatnsoyrar offer a range of options for a comfortable stay.
These villages, with their unique charm and hospitality, serve as perfect bases for your exploration of Fjallavatn and its surroundings.
3.Lake Sandsvatn
On the serene Sandoy Island, nestled between the picturesque villages of Sandur and Skopun, lies Lake Sandsvatn – the third largest lake in the Faroe Islands and the crown jewel of Sandoy.
Stretching 2 km in length and 640 meters in width, this tranquil lake is a haven for those seeking a blend of adventure and peace.
How To Get To Lake Sandsvatn
My journey to Lake Sandsvatn was a mesmerizing experience, with each moment on Sandoy Island leading to this magnificent lake.
Parking: On the side of the road, near the lake
The drive between Sandur and Skopun, with the lake lying in between, was a scenic delight, offering views of the lake’s expansive beauty.
The sense of anticipation grew with every mile, as I neared this kayaker’s paradise.
Outdoor Activities Around Lake Sandsvatn
Kayaking on Lake Sandsvatn was an adventure I’ll always cherish. Gliding over its calm waters, I felt a deep connection with the untouched beauty of Sandoy.
The lake’s vast expanse, surrounded by pristine nature, provided a perfect setting for a day of exploration and tranquility.
It’s also a popular spot for sports fishing, where the peaceful environment and the thrill of the catch coexist in harmony.
Places To Stay Near Lake Sandsvatn
Staying in Sandur, I was captivated by the village’s stunning beaches and lush landscapes. The connection with nature here was profound, evident in every trail and wildlife encounter. The views of the wild Atlantic were a constant reminder of the island’s rugged beauty.
Just a short drive from the lake, Skopun’s vibrant community and colorful houses offered a warm and authentic Faroese experience. The village’s bustling harbor, a hub of maritime activity, was a testament to its rich seafaring heritage.
4.Hvannavatn
Tucked away on the enchanting Suðuroy island, near the quaint village of Tvøroyri, lies Lake Hvannavatn – a hidden gem that whispers tales of spectacular beauty and serene landscapes.
This lake isn’t just a spot on the map; it’s a secret sanctuary waiting to be discovered by those who seek the road less traveled.
How To Get To Lake Hvannavatn
The adventure to Lake Hvannavatn begins with a scenic hike starting just above the hospital in Tvøroyri.
The path, winding through the heart of Suðuroy’s lush scenery, is a journey of discovery. As I embarked on this trail, each step was a dance with nature, leading me closer to the lake’s serene beauty.
Parking: Tvøroyri – Suðuroyar Sjúkrahús
The hike, taking about an hour each way, is a delightful experience, offering glimpses of the island’s natural splendor.
Outdoor Activities Around Lake Hvannavatn
Lake Hvannavatn is a haven for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. The lake’s surroundings, with their unspoiled beauty, are perfect for leisurely walks and contemplative moments.
Its accessibility makes it an ideal spot for a day of exploration, where the beauty of Suðuroy can be appreciated in its full glory.
Places To Stay Near Lake Hvannavatn
While there are no immediate accommodations by Lake Hvannavatn, the nearby village of Tvøroyri offers a range of options for a comfortable stay.
This charming village, with its welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, serves as a perfect base for exploring Lake Hvannavatn and the surrounding areas.
5.Pollurin lake
Tucked away beneath the quaint village of Saksun on Streymoy Island, the Pollurin Lagoon is a secluded paradise, offering a glimpse into the untouched beauty of the Faroe Islands.
My journey to this hidden lagoon started with a scenic drive from Tórshavn, filled with anticipation and the promise of discovering something truly special.
How To Get To Pollurin Lake
As I arrived in Saksun, the tranquil Lake Saksunarvatn was the first to welcome me, setting the tone for the natural splendor that awaited.
A short drive down the road led me to the enchanting Pollurin Lagoon, nestled in a setting so serene it felt like stepping into another world.
Parking: Next to the Saksunarvatn lake
Outdoor Activities Around Pollurin Lake
The village of Saksun, with its iconic turf-roofed church and charming village museum, is a snapshot of Faroese culture and history.
But the true magic lies in the lagoon itself. Originally a natural harbor, it was transformed by a storm into a sandy, secluded inlet, accessible by small boats at high tide and on foot at low tide.
Walking along the sand towards the beachfront, with waterfalls cascading down steep mountainsides, was an experience that felt surreal, a moment where nature’s artistry was on full display.
Places To Stay Near Pollurin Lake
While there are no immediate accommodations by the lagoon, the village of Saksun offers a peaceful retreat.
The area around Saksun and Streymoy Island provides various options for those looking to stay close to this natural wonder.
Best time to visit the lakes on the faroe islands
If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting archipelago, understanding its climate is like learning the language of the land.
I remember my own journey there at the end of September – a time when the islands begin to whisper the tales of autumn.
Here’s a snapshot of what the weather is like throughout the year in the Faroe Islands, a guide to help you pack your bags with the right tunes of clothing and gear:
| Month | Avg Max Temp (°C) | Avg Min Temp (°C) | Avg Days of Rain | Avg Daylight Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5.8 | 2.3 | 22 | 5 |
| February | 5.6 | 2.1 | 18 | 7 |
| March | 6.3 | 2.5 | 21 | 9 |
| April | 7.9 | 3.9 | 19 | 14 |
| May | 9.9 | 6.0 | 16 | 17 |
| June | 11.7 | 8.1 | 15 | 19 |
| July | 13.0 | 9.9 | 16 | 18 |
| August | 13.1 | 10.0 | 18 | 15 |
| September | 11.5 | 8.6 | 22 | 12 |
| October | 9.0 | 6.4 | 24 | 9 |
| November | 6.7 | 3.9 | 23 | 7 |
| December | 5.9 | 2.7 | 23 | 5 |
This table provides a general guideline, but it’s important to remember that the Faroe Islands’ weather can be unpredictable.
FAQ Lakes in Ireland
Is there a lake that hangs over the ocean?
Absolutely, there is! In the Faroe Islands, you’ll find Lake Sørvágsvatn, also known as Leitisvatn. This lake is a natural wonder that seems to defy gravity.
It’s perched high above the North Atlantic Ocean, creating a stunning optical illusion where it appears to be hanging over the ocean. The lake is situated on the island of Vágar and is the largest in the Faroe Islands.
The sight of Lake Sørvágsvatn, with its waters seemingly suspended above the sea, is a breathtaking spectacle that beautifully encapsulates the mystical charm of the Faroe Islands.
Where is the Flying lake Faroe Islands?
The Flying Lake, also known as Lake Sørvágsvatn or Leitisvatn, is a breathtaking sight on Vágar Island in the Faroe Islands.
Perched high above the North Atlantic Ocean, this lake creates an optical illusion of floating above the sea, a spectacle that truly captures the mystical essence of the Faroe Islands. It’s a place where nature’s magic is vividly on display, inviting adventurers to witness its unique beauty.
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Final thoughts on Lakes on the faroe islands
My 8-day hiking adventure across the Faroe Islands was a profound adventure. Each lake I discovered was a unique story set against breathtaking mountains and waterfalls.
From kayaking on Lake Sandsvatn to exploring Pollurin Lagoon, each moment connected me to the raw beauty of the Faroes. This journey left an indelible mark on my heart, making it a true haven for adventure seekers.
