Vestmanna: Village of Sea Cliffs and Viking History

Explore Vestmanna, Faroe Islands: Viking history, dramatic cliffs, and unforgettable boat tours await!

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Vestmanna

Vestmanna, a charming village on Streymoy Island in the Faroe Islands, is known for its dramatic sea cliffs, Viking history, and as a departure point for boat tours to the Vestmannabjørgini bird cliffs. With a well-protected harbor and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor adventures.

A brief summary to Vestmanna

Vestmanna, FO

Local tips

Book your Vestmanna Sea Cliffs boat tour in advance, especially during peak season (May-August), as they tend to sell out.
Bring warm and waterproof clothing, as the weather in the Faroe Islands can be unpredictable.
Check the bus schedule if you plan to travel to Vestmanna by public transport, as services may be less frequent on weekends.
Consider hiking the Hvalvík-Vestmanna trail for stunning views, but wear appropriate footwear.
Visit the Vestmanna Visitor Centre for local wool products and information about the village.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Tórshavn, take bus route 100 towards Vestmanna. The bus departs from the bus terminal at the harbor in Tórshavn and the journey takes approximately 55 minutes. Please note that you may have to change buses in Kollafjørður. A single fare costs approximately 30 DKK. From Vágar Airport, rent a car or take a bus to Vestmanna, which is about a 30-45 minute drive.
Walking

Vestmanna is a moderately walkable village. From the bus stop or harbor, most guesthouses and amenities are within walking distance. Be aware that some areas have hilly terrain. The Vestmanna Tourist Centre, where boat tours depart, is easily accessible from the harbor.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Tórshavn and can be used to reach Vestmanna. The estimated fare for a taxi from Tórshavn to Vestmanna is between 500-700 DKK. It is advisable to book in advance.

Discover more about Vestmanna

Vestmanna, nestled on the west coast of Streymoy Island in the Faroe Islands, is a village steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. For centuries, Vestmanna has been a vital harbor, originally known as Vestmannahavn, meaning "Westmen's harbor," a testament to its Viking connections. The name likely originates from the Norwegian Vikings who referred to the Irish monks as "westmen". Historically a farming village, Vestmanna has evolved into a hub for tourism, offering visitors a chance to explore its dramatic cliffs and immerse themselves in Faroese culture. The village is surrounded by mountains such as Hægstafjall, Økslin, Loysingafjall, and Moskurfjall. The main attraction is the Vestmannabjørgini, towering sea cliffs that rise almost 500 meters vertically from the sea. Boat tours depart from Vestmanna, taking visitors to explore the cliffs, grottos, and abundant birdlife, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars. Vestmanna also houses the Saga Museum, which showcases the history of the Faroe Islands through wax figures. Other activities include hiking the Hvalvík-Vestmanna trail and visiting the Faer Isles Distillery.