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Vestmanna: Village of Sea Cliffs and Viking History

Explore Vestmanna, Faroe Islands: Viking history, dramatic sea cliffs, and abundant birdlife await in this charming coastal village.

Vestmanna, a charming village on Streymoy Island in the Faroe Islands, is renowned for its dramatic sea cliffs, Viking history, and as a departure point for boat tours exploring the Vestmannabjørgini cliffs. With a natural harbor and stunning landscapes, it's a must-see destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Vestmanna

  • Vestmanna, FO

Local tips

  • Book boat tours to the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), to ensure availability.
  • Bring warm and waterproof clothing, as the weather in Vestmanna can be unpredictable.
  • Consider starting the Hvalvík-Vestmanna hike from Hvalvík to enjoy a boat tour to the bird cliffs and a visit to the Saga Museum afterward.
  • Check the bus schedule if using public transport, as services may be less frequent on weekends.
  • Visit the Vestmanna Tourist Centre for information on tours, activities, and local tips.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Tórshavn, drive north on Route 10 towards Vestmanna. The drive is approximately 34 minutes covering around 38km. Follow the signs for Vestmanna. Parking is available at the harbor next to the Vestmanna Tourist Centre, where boat tours depart. Parking is generally free. Be aware of narrow roads and passing places.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Route 100 from the bus terminal in Tórshavn to Vestmanna. The journey takes approximately 55 minutes. Buses depart every three hours. Check the schedule at ssl.fo for up-to-date times. A single fare costs approximately 30 DKK. The bus stops about 50 meters from the harbor.

  • Walking

    Vestmanna is a small village and is easily walkable. From the bus stop or parking area at the harbor, the Vestmanna Tourist Centre and boat tour departure point are within a short walking distance. Follow the signs towards the harbor area.

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Discover more about Vestmanna

Vestmanna, nestled on the west coast of Streymoy Island in the Faroe Islands, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The village, historically known as Vestmannahavn (Westman's harbor), derives its name from the Norwegian Vikings who referred to the Irish monks and people from the west as "westmen". Vestmanna's history stretches back to the 11th century, with Viking remains suggesting it was among the first settlements in the Faroes. The village is surrounded by mountains such as Hægstafjall, Økslin, Loysingafjall and Moskurfjall. Vestmanna is most famous for the Vestmannabjørgini, a series of towering sea cliffs located just north of the village. These cliffs, rising almost 500 meters vertically from the sea, are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and kittiwakes. Boat tours depart from Vestmanna harbor, navigating through narrow straits and grottos, offering visitors a close-up view of the stunning geological formations and abundant birdlife. Beyond the sea cliffs, Vestmanna offers other attractions, including the Saga Museum, which showcases the history of the Faroe Islands through wax figures. Vestmanna also serves as a trailhead for hikes, including the picturesque cross-island trail to Hvalvík. Historically a farming village, Vestmanna has evolved into a tourist destination with a range of accommodations, restaurants, and cafes. The village provides a peaceful retreat with its kind locals and stunning natural surroundings.

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