Risin og Kellingin Viewpoint: Witness the Giant and the Witch

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Experience the breathtaking views of the Giant and the Witch, legendary sea stacks off the coast of Eysturoy Island in the Faroe Islands.

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Risin og Kellingin viewpoint

The Risin og Kellingin viewpoint offers stunning views of two iconic sea stacks off the coast of Eysturoy Island in the Faroe Islands. According to legend, these basalt formations are the petrified remains of a giant and a witch who attempted to steal the islands.

A brief summary to Risin og Kellingin viewpoint

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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for the best lighting for photography.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure clear views.
Bring warm clothing, as it can be windy and chilly, even in summer.

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Getting There

Driving

If driving from Gjógv, head south on Route 68. Continue for approximately 2 kilometers until you see a sign for the 'Risin og Kellingin' viewpoint on your right. Turn onto the gravel road, which is well-maintained and leads directly to the parking area near the viewpoint. There are no parking fees.
Public Transport

To reach the Risin og Kellingin viewpoint using public transport, take a bus from Tórshavn to Gjógv. Check local bus schedules for routes and times. From the bus stop in the center of Gjógv, walk south along Route 68 for about 2 kilometers. Look for the sign indicating the 'Risin og Kellingin' viewpoint, and turn right onto the gravel road leading to the viewpoint. The walk from Gjógv takes approximately 30-40 minutes. A public transport card for 4 days costs 500 kr.
Walking

For those who prefer to walk from Gjógv, head towards the southern end of the village and find Route 68. Follow the road south for about 2 kilometers, keeping an eye out for the sign for 'Risin og Kellingin'. The walk should take approximately 30-40 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes as the terrain may be uneven.

Discover more about Risin og Kellingin viewpoint

The Risin og Kellingin viewpoint is a must-see destination in the Faroe Islands, providing an exceptional vantage point for viewing the dramatic sea stacks known as Risin og Kellingin. These stacks, meaning "The Giant and the Witch," are steeped in local legend and rise majestically from the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Eysturoy Island. The legend tells of an Icelandic giant and witch sent to drag the Faroe Islands back to Iceland. The giant stood in the sea while the witch climbed the cliffs of Eiðiskollur to tie the islands together. As she pulled, the mountain split, and they struggled through the night. Dawn's light turned them to stone, where they remain, gazing towards Iceland. Risin stands 71 meters tall, the farther stack, while Kellingin is 68 meters, closer to the land. Geologists predict that Kellingin, currently standing on two legs, will eventually fall into the sea due to winter storms. The viewpoint offers more than just a visual spectacle. The rugged cliffs and crashing waves create a symphony of sounds, enhancing the wild beauty of the surroundings. The area is also rich with hiking trails, offering unique perspectives of the sea stacks and landscape. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography, with the golden light creating stunning contrasts.