Tórsvøllur
Tórsvøllur: The National Stadium of the Faroe Islands
Svartafoss Waterfall: A Hidden Gem Near Tórshavn
Discover Svartafoss Waterfall near Tórshavn: a serene escape showcasing the unique basalt formations of the Faroe Islands.
Svartafoss Waterfall, nestled just outside Tórshavn, offers a tranquil escape into nature. Framed by dark basalt columns and lush greenery, this charming waterfall provides a picturesque setting for a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the geological wonders of the Faroe Islands.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Svartafoss Waterfall
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
26G9+FP2, Tórshavn, FO
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Getting There
Walking
From Tórshavn city center, Svartafoss Waterfall is accessible by foot. The walk is approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) and should take around 30-45 minutes. Head north from the old town, following the road towards Hoyvík. The trail is well-marked, and the waterfall is located in the Hoydalsá area. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the waterfall.
Public Transport
The red city buses in Tórshavn, operated by Bussleiðin, provide a convenient way to reach Svartafoss. Several routes serve the area near the waterfall. Check the Bussleiðin website or the SONA app for the most up-to-date routes and timetables. As of 2025, there may be a fee for bus travel. Tickets need to be paid onboard either cash or by card. Indication of prices: Tórshavn-Hoyvík 20 DKK.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tórshavn and can take you directly to Svartafoss Waterfall. A taxi ride from the city center to the waterfall will typically cost between 100-150 DKK, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. There are no additional tolls or parking fees.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography and to avoid potential crowds.
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Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails to the waterfall can be rocky and uneven.
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Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the Faroe Islands can change rapidly.
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Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding basalt columns.
Discover more about Svartafoss Waterfall
Svartafoss Waterfall, meaning 'Black Waterfall', is located a mere 2 km north of Tórshavn, making it an easily accessible natural wonder. The waterfall is set in Hoydalsá, a stream that once marked the boundary between Tórshavn and Hoyvík.
The waterfall's basalt columns were formed approximately 300,000 years ago from ancient lava flows. As the lava cooled, it contracted and split into the hexagonal columns seen today. The waterfall is most impressive after periods of rain; during the summer months, or after long periods of drought, the waterfall can reduce to a trickle, revealing the black stone wall behind it, which gives the waterfall its name.
Svartafoss has always been a place of recreation and provided resources for the residents of Tórshavn. In the past, locals collected sod in this area to use for their fireplaces, and on Sundays, it was common to stroll here to enjoy the scenery. Today, the area around Svartafoss and Hoydalsá is protected, with trails that make it easy to explore the area.
A brief summary to Svartafoss Waterfall
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