Skúvoy, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Skúvoy, a tranquil island in the Faroe Islands, with rich birdlife, historic sites, and breathtaking hiking trails.

Skúvoy is a small island in the Faroe Islands, known for its untouched nature and tranquil atmosphere. With a population of just a few dozen people, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The island is rich in birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The cliffs are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, fulmars, and skuas. One of the main attractions on Skúvoy is the historic church, which dates back to the 14th century. It stands as a testament to the island’s long history and cultural heritage. Nearby, you can find the ruins of an old Viking settlement, offering a glimpse into the lives of the island’s early inhabitants. For those who love hiking, Skúvoy provides several trails with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands. The most popular hike leads to the highest point on the island, where you can enjoy panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. In the summer, the island is covered in wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the rugged landscape.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Skúvoy.

Plan your visit during the summer months when the weather is milder and wildflowers are in bloom.
Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the island is home to a variety of seabirds.
Wear sturdy hiking boots for exploring the trails, especially if you plan on reaching the island’s highest point.
Check the ferry schedule in advance, as services to Skúvoy can be limited.
Respect the local wildlife and avoid disturbing the nesting birds.

Destinations in Skúvoy

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Skúvoy Island

Explore Skúvoy: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Skúvoy

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Risin og Kellingin viewpoint

Experience the dramatic beauty of Risin og Kellingin Viewpoint in the Faroe Islands, where folklore meets breathtaking landscapes.

4.5

Vestmanna

Explore dramatic cliffs, abundant birdlife, and Viking history in the charming village of Vestmanna, Faroe Islands.

Witches Finger Trail

Hike the Witches Finger Trail in the Faroe Islands for stunning views, rich folklore, and an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

4.7

Ásmundarstakkur

Witness the majestic Ásmundarstakkur sea stack on Suðuroy, Faroe Islands. A stunning coastal view shaped by the North Atlantic awaits!

4.5

Best landmarks in Skúvoy

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Explore the historic village of Kirkjubøur in the Faroe Islands, where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler.

4.6

Múlafossur Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Múlafossur Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder cascading into the Atlantic Ocean in the picturesque Faroe Islands.

4.8

Fossá

Discover the breathtaking Fossá waterfall, the tallest waterfall in the Faroe Islands, set against a stunning backdrop of nature's beauty.

4.6

The Nordic House

Discover rich Faroese culture at The Nordic House, a cultural center in Tórshavn showcasing art, heritage, and local flavors in stunning surroundings.

4.4

Best restaurants in Skúvoy

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Fríða Kaffihús

Discover Faroese culture at Fríða Kaffihús: A delightful café blending history and culinary delights in Klaksvík.

4.6

Katrina Christiansen

Discover authentic Scandinavian flavors at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn – where tradition meets modern Faroese cuisine.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Experience top-notch dining at Angus Steakhouse - where exquisite steaks meet Faroese hospitality.

4.1

Áarstova

Discover authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova in Tórshavn – a must-visit restaurant showcasing local flavors with warm hospitality.

4.5

Best bars in Skúvoy

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the charm of Irish Pub Torshavn, where authentic Irish cuisine meets Faroese hospitality in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Experience the essence of Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen, where fresh Faroese ingredients meet culinary excellence in Tórshavn.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Indulge in premium steaks and a cozy atmosphere at Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn, the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.1

THE TARV Grillhouse

Experience the best of Faroese cuisine at The TARV Grillhouse, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence in Tórshavn.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Skúvoy

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Tórshavn at Irish Pub Torshavn, where traditional Irish charm meets Faroese flavor in a lively atmosphere.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Sirkus Bar, where friendly faces and delicious drinks await in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Glitnir

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Glitnir, the must-visit bar for a taste of local culture and reasonably priced drinks.

4.3

Blábar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Blábar, where local charm meets cozy atmosphere and delightful drinks.

4.6

Best shops in Skúvoy

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H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore the enchanting world of H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil in Tórshavn, where books, gifts, and local treasures await every curious traveler.

4.7

Navia (yarn)

Discover Navia, the charming knit shop in Toftir, Faroe Islands, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant yarns and warm hospitality.

4.6

P/F Jógvan Weihe

Discover adventure gear at P/F Jógvan Weihe, an outdoor sports store in Tórshavn, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Faroe Islands.

4.8

Á Landavegur

Discover the rich flavors of the Faroe Islands at Á Landavegur, your local supermarket in Tórshavn offering a blend of local and international products.

4.3

Explore Skúvoy on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Skúvoy, mapped for you.

Skúvoy Essentials

Skúvoy is one of the smaller islands in the Faroe Islands archipelago. To get there, you can take a ferry operated by Strandfaraskip Landsins from the port of Sandoy. The ferry ride typically takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can charter a boat from Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. It's also possible to reach Skúvoy by helicopter services provided by Atlantic Airways from the Vagar Airport.
Once on Skúvoy, transportation options are limited due to the island's small size. Walking is the most common and practical way to get around. Bicycles can also be rented for exploring the island at a leisurely pace. There are no public buses or taxis, so plan accordingly. For guided tours, it is advisable to arrange them in advance.
The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is equivalent to the Danish krone. While credit cards are generally accepted in larger establishments, it is wise to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and eateries on Skúvoy. ATMs may not be available on the island, so withdraw sufficient cash before arriving.
Skúvoy is a very safe destination with low crime rates, including crimes targeting tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. The island is known for its rugged terrain, so exercise caution when hiking or exploring cliffs and coastal areas.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Skúvoy has limited medical facilities, so for serious medical emergencies, evacuation to a larger island or the mainland may be necessary. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. For minor health issues, you can find basic first aid supplies at local shops or guesthouses.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid wearing heavy perfumes, as locals prefer natural scents. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays and events. Public Transport: Do plan your transportation in advance, as options are limited. Don't expect frequent public transport services. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or a hello; Faroese people are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, such as fermented fish and lamb. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Skúvoy like a local, take part in community events and festivals, which are excellent opportunities to interact with residents. Visit the local church and historical sites, such as the ruins of the old Viking settlement. Engage in birdwatching, as the island is home to various seabird species, including puffins. Lastly, enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the island by taking long walks and immersing yourself in the serene environment.

When is the best time to visit Skúvoy?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Skúvoy

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Skúvoy. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalló
  [hɑːloʊ]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [fɑːrvæl]
- YesJa
  [jɑ]
- NoNei
  [neɪ]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaliga
  [viːnɑlɪgɑ]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tɑk fɪrɪ]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsakandi
  [ʊrˈsɑkɑndɪ]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú?
  [hʊsʊ hɛvʊr tʊ]
- Fine. And you?Bara væl. Og tú?
  [bɑrɑ væl. ɔg tʊ]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [tɑlɑr tʊ ɛnʃt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [ɛg ˈskɪljɪ ˈɪkɪ]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil gita matseðilin, vinarliga
  [ɛg vɪl ˈɡɪtɑ mɑtsɛðɪlɪn, vɪnɑrlɪgɑ]
- I don't eat meatEg etti ikki kjøt
  [ɛg ˈɛtɪ ˈɪkɪ ˈkjøt]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skɑːl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, vinarliga
  [ɛg vɪl ˈjaldɑ, vɪnɑrlɪgɑ]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [jɑʊlp]
- Go away!Far burtur!
  [fɑr ˈbʊrtʊr]
- Call the Police!Kalla Politið!
  [ˈkɑlɑ pɔlɪtɪð]
- Call a doctor!Kalla ein lækna!
  [ˈkɑlɑ eɪn ˈlɛkna]
- I'm lostEg eri misfarin
  [ɛg ˈɛrɪ ˈmɪsfɑrɪn]
- I'm illEg eri sjúkur
  [ɛg ˈɛrɪ ˈʃuːkʊr]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [ɛg vɪl ˈkeɪpɑ]
- I'm just lookingEg eri bara at leita
  [ɛg ˈɛrɪ ˈbɑrɑ æt ˈleɪtɑ]
- How much is it?Hvussu nógv kostar tað?
  [hʊsʊ nɔɪk ˈkɔstɑr tɑð]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dýrt
  [tɑð ɛr oʊv dyːrt]
- Can you lower the price?Kann tú lækka prísin?
  [kɑn tʊ ˈlɛkɑ ˈpriːsɪn]
- What time is it?Hvat tíð er tað?
  [hʊt tiːð ɛr tɑð]
- It's one o'clockKlokkan er eitt
  [ˈklɔkɑn ɛr eɪt]
- Half past (10)Halv (10)
  [hɑlv (10)]
- MorningMorgun
  [ˈmɔrɡʊn]
- AfternoonEftirmiddag
  [ˈɛftɪrˌmɪðɡɑ]
- EveningKvøttur
  [ˈkvʊtʊr]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [i ˈjɑːr]
- TodayÍ dag
  [i dɑg]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [i ˈmɔrɡɪn]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er ein/tey...?
  [hʊr ɛr eɪn/teɪ...]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [hʊt ɛr ɑˈdrɛsɑn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kann tú vísa mær (á kortinum)?
  [kɑn tʊ ˈviːsɑ mɛr (ɔ kɔrtɪnʊm)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsti (bussur)?
  [nɛr ˈkɛmʊr ˈnaɪstɪ (ˈbʊsʊr)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein billett (til ...)
  [eɪn bɪˈlɛt (tɪl ...)]

History of Skúvoy

Skúvoy, a small island in the Faroe Islands, is a hidden gem rich in history and culture. With a population of around 30 inhabitants, this island offers a unique glimpse into the traditional Faroese way of life. The island is named after the abundance of seabirds, particularly the skuas, that inhabit its cliffs and shores.
One of the most famous historical events linked to Skúvoy is the story of Sigmundur Brestisson, a Faroese Viking chieftain who played a crucial role in the Christianization of the Faroe Islands. Around the year 1000, Sigmundur fled to Skúvoy to escape his enemies. His tragic death on the island is a pivotal moment in Faroese history, marking the transition from paganism to Christianity.
The Black Death had a devastating impact on the Faroe Islands in the 14th century, and Skúvoy was no exception. The plague wiped out a significant portion of the island's population. Local legends tell of the island being left almost deserted, with only a few survivors who had hidden in remote parts of the island.
The Church of Skúvoy, known as Skúvoyar Kirkja, is an important cultural and historical landmark. The current church building dates back to 1937, but the site has been a place of worship for centuries. The churchyard is the final resting place of Sigmundur Brestisson, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the island's rich historical tapestry.
Skúvoy is renowned for its rich birdlife, particularly its population of puffins. Traditional puffin hunting, a practice that dates back centuries, is still carried out on the island. This activity is not only a cultural tradition but also a means of subsistence for the islanders. The cliffs of Skúvoy provide a perfect habitat for these seabirds, making the island a must-visit for birdwatchers.
Agriculture and sheep farming have been the backbone of Skúvoy's economy for generations. The island's fertile meadows and mild climate make it ideal for raising sheep. Visitors can experience the pastoral lifestyle, observe traditional farming practices, and enjoy the stunning landscapes shaped by centuries of agricultural activity.
Despite its small population, Skúvoy maintains a vibrant community life. The island has adapted to modern times while preserving its unique cultural heritage. Renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, have been introduced to make the island more sustainable. The close-knit community offers a warm welcome to visitors, providing an authentic Faroese experience.