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Vestmanna: Village Gateway to the Faroe Islands' Wild Coast

Explore the dramatic Vestmanna sea cliffs and immerse yourself in Faroese history in this charming village on Streymoy Island.

Vestmanna, a charming village on the island of Streymoy, Faroe Islands, serves as the launching point for exploring the dramatic Vestmannabjørgini sea cliffs. Known for its natural harbor and boat tours to the cliffs, Vestmanna offers a blend of stunning scenery and Faroese history.

A brief summary to Vestmanna

  • Vestmanna, FO

Local tips

  • Book boat tours to the Vestmanna cliffs in advance, especially during peak season (April to October), as they are very popular.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching on the Vestmanna cliffs boat tour.
  • Check the weather forecast before your boat tour, as conditions can change rapidly in the Faroe Islands.
  • Consider visiting the Saga Museum in Vestmanna to learn about the history of the Faroe Islands.
  • Drive up to the water dams in the mountains surrounding Vestmanna for unique views and a glimpse into the islands' hydropower system.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tórshavn, take Bus Route 100 towards Vestmanna. The bus departs from the bus terminal at the harbor in Tórshavn. Check the bus schedule at ssl.fo for any amendments. The bus stops approximately 50 meters from the boat departure point for the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs tour. A single bus fare from Tórshavn to Vestmanna is approximately 40 DKK, payable onboard with a credit card.

  • Driving

    From Vágar Airport or Tórshavn, drive to Vestmanna via well-maintained roads. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes from either location. Upon arrival in Vestmanna, follow signs to the harbor. There is a large parking lot available next to the pier where the boat tours to Vestmanna Bird Cliffs depart. Parking is generally free.

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Discover more about Vestmanna

Vestmanna, nestled on the northwest coast of Streymoy, is more than just a picturesque village; it's a gateway to some of the Faroe Islands' most breathtaking natural wonders. With a population of approximately 1,200, Vestmanna is the second-largest settlement on Streymoy and boasts a rich history dating back to the 11th century. The village's name, Vestmanna (Westmen's harbor), hints at its early inhabitants, possibly Irish monks or Norse settlers from the west. Vestmanna's prime attraction is undoubtedly the Vestmannabjørgini, the towering sea cliffs located just north of the village. These cliffs, rising up to 2,000 feet (609 meters) from the North Atlantic, stretch for 5 kilometers and are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and fulmars. Boat tours from Vestmanna offer visitors the chance to witness these cliffs up close, navigating through narrow straits, deep grottoes, and past towering sea stacks. Weather permitting, boats even venture into the sea caves carved by the waves. Beyond the cliffs, Vestmanna offers a glimpse into Faroese culture and industry. Fishing has long been a mainstay of the local economy, and visitors can still see the vibrant dock area and fish factory. The village is surrounded by mountains like Hægstafjall, Økslin, Loysingafjall, and Moskurfjall, offering scenic drives and hiking opportunities. Vestmanna also holds historical significance as one of the first settlements in the Faroes, with Viking remains discovered in the area. The Saga Museum in Vestmanna showcases the history of the Faroe Islands through lifelike wax figures.

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