Skarðsáfossur: A Hidden Faroese Waterfall
Discover Skarðsáfossur waterfall on the Faroe Islands: a hidden gem offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Skarðsáfossur, a hidden gem on Vágar Island, offers a serene escape into the raw beauty of the Faroe Islands. Unlike the more frequented Múlafossur, Skarðsáfossur remains a tranquil and less crowded spectacle. The waterfall gracefully descends from the cliff's edge onto a small black stone beach, creating a mesmerizing scene. To truly appreciate Skarðsáfossur, consider a boat tour along the Sørvágsfjørður fjord. As the boat approaches Akranessker skerry, the waterfall reveals itself, often close enough to feel the refreshing spray. The surrounding views include the distinctive islet of Tindhólmur and the sea arch Drangarnir, enhancing the experience. Exploring after a rainfall ensures a more voluminous cascade. While a coastal trail exists between Múlafossur and Skarðsáfossur, accessing the falls directly involves navigating private land, making a boat tour the most accessible option. This exclusivity adds to the allure, offering a unique perspective of the Faroese landscape. Keep an eye out for puffins and seals that frequent the area, adding to the already stunning scenery.
Local tips
- The best views of Skarðsáfossur are from the sea, so consider a boat tour along Sørvágsfjørður fjord.
- Visit after rainfall for a more powerful and impressive waterfall.
- Bring binoculars to spot puffins and seals that are often seen in the area.
A brief summary to Skarðsáfossur
- 3HRW+P85, Vágar, Bøur, FO
- 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
Getting There
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Boat Tour
The most direct way to view Skarðsáfossur is by boat tour from the nearby village of Sørvágur. Several tours operate in the area, often combining a visit to the waterfall with other sights like the Drangarnir sea arch and Tindhólmur islet. These tours typically cost between $100 and $160 USD per person. The boat will take you along the Sørvágsfjørður fjord, providing an excellent vantage point of the cascading water.
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Public Transport & Walking
From Tórshavn, take the bus to the village of Bøur. Check local bus schedules for current times. From Bøur, the trailhead to Skarðsáfossur is approximately 2 km. Note that the final approach to the waterfall may involve crossing private land, and there may not be a visible path. Bus fare from Tórshavn to Bøur is approximately 50 DKK. Walking from the bus stop to the waterfall takes around 30 minutes.
