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Svartafoss Waterfall: Tórshavn's Black Waterfall

Discover Svartafoss Waterfall near Tórshavn: a scenic escape with basalt columns, lush trails, and tranquil beauty in the Faroe Islands.

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Svartafoss Waterfall, or 'Black Waterfall,' is a captivating natural attraction located just north of Tórshavn, Faroe Islands. The waterfall gets its name from the dark basalt rocks that are visible when water flow is low. Easily accessible and set within a protected area, Svartafoss offers a tranquil escape within the city limits.

A brief summary to Svartafoss Waterfall

  • 26G9+FP2, Tórshavn, 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

Local tips

  • Visit after a rainfall for the most impressive waterfall display.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the trails can be slippery, especially near the waterfall.
  • Bring a camera to capture the contrast of the water against the dark basalt columns.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Tórshavn, head north. The walk to Svartafoss is approximately 2 km and takes around 30-40 minutes. Follow the road Vøttastøtt out of the city. Continue until you see a path leading up the hill on your left. Follow this path uphill to reach Svartafoss Waterfall. There are no costs associated with walking to the waterfall.

  • Public Transport

    From the central bus station in Tórshavn, several bus lines serve the area near Svartafoss. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single fare on the local bus is approximately 15 DKK. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions for the final approach to the waterfall.

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Discover more about Svartafoss Waterfall

Svartafoss Waterfall, whose name translates to 'Black Waterfall', is a picturesque cascade located a mere 2 kilometers north of Tórshavn's old town. Situated in the Hoydalsá stream, which flows through Hoydalar, it historically marked the boundary between Tórshavn and Hoyvík. The waterfall presents a striking scene, especially after rainfall when it becomes a powerful torrent. During drier summer months, the water flow diminishes, revealing the black stone wall that gives the waterfall its distinctive name. Historical photographs dating back a century show that Svartafoss has remained largely unchanged over the years. Svartafoss has long been a local favorite. In the past, residents of Tórshavn would gather sod in the area for their fireplaces. It was also a popular destination for Sunday strolls to enjoy the scenery. An old sheepfold, once used by a local farmer, can still be seen near the waterfall. Today, Svartafoss is protected by the city council, with trails built to allow easy exploration of the area.

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