Witches Finger Trail: A Hike into Faroese Folklore
Hike the Witches Finger Trail in the Faroe Islands for stunning views, rich folklore, and an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
The Witches Finger Trail, or Trøllkonufingur, is a captivating hiking area situated near Sandavágur in the Faroe Islands. This scenic trail leads through mesmerizing landscapes, characterized by dramatic cliffs, lush green hills, and panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and islands. The trail is named after a striking rock formation that resembles a witch's finger pointing skyward. Local folklore says the Trøllkonufingur is the finger of a witch who came to throw the Faroe Islands to Iceland. However, the sun rose, turning her into stone, and she fell into the ocean. As she reached the bottom of the sea, the back of her head and her finger remained above the surface, forming the island of Koltur and the Trøllkonufingur rock. The trail offers various levels of difficulty, making it accessible to both seasoned hikers and casual walkers. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse wildlife, including seabirds and unique flora. The best times to visit are during late spring and summer when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rugged terrain comfortably.
- Visit during the summer months for the best weather and longest daylight hours.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique rock formations along the trail.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water, as amenities are limited along the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly.
A brief summary to Witches Finger Trail
- 3V23+6VR, Witches finger, Sandavágur, FO
- Visit website
- 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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Public Transport
To reach the Witches Finger Trail using public transport, take bus line 300 to Sandavágur. From Tórshavn, the bus journey takes approximately 35-40 minutes. From Vágar Airport, the bus ride is about 10 minutes. Once in Sandavágur, follow the signs towards Trøllkonufingur. The trailhead is located near the area with coordinates 3V23+6VR. A one-way bus ticket from the airport or Tórshavn to Sandavágur typically costs around 20 DKK.
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Walking
From the Sandavágur Bus Stop, head north on the main road Óygginartún. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Rættarávegur and continue walking until you see the signpost indicating Witches Finger Trail (Troellkonufingur). The trailhead is located near the area with the coordinates 3V23+6VR. The walk from the bus stop to the trailhead is approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Sandavágur on Vágar Island. From the airport, follow the main road towards Sandavágur. Once in the village, look for signs indicating the Witches Finger Trail (Trøllkonufingur). There's a small parking lot at the beginning of the trail, but it's better to park in town and walk the extra few meters. Parking in Sandavágur is generally free. From the parking lot, walk towards the trail.
