Nólsoy Lighthouse, Streymoy Island Travel Guide

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Hike to the historic Nólsoy Lighthouse for breathtaking views and a glimpse into the Faroe Islands' rugged beauty and maritime past.

Perched on the southeastern tip of Nólsoy island, the Nólsoy Lighthouse (Nólsoyarviti) is a historic beacon offering stunning views and a glimpse into Faroese maritime history. Built in 1893, it stands as one of the most powerful lighthouses in the North Atlantic.

A brief summary to Nólsoy Lighthouse

Nólsoyar viti, Nólsoy, FO
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail to the lighthouse can be steep and wet in places.
Bring rain gear, as the weather in the Faroe Islands can change quickly.
Pack food and water, as there are no facilities along the hiking trail.
Download offline maps, such as Maps.me, for navigation as mobile internet connectivity can be unreliable in certain areas.

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Getting There

Ferry

The primary access to Nólsoy is via the ferry Ternan from Tórshavn. The ferry departs multiple times daily from the harbor in Tórshavn. The ferry trip to Nólsoy takes approximately 20-30 minutes. As of July 2025, a single adult ticket to Nólsoy costs 40 DKK, while students pay 30 DKK. The return trip is free. Check the current schedule with Strandfaraskip.
Walking

From the ferry terminal in Nólsoy village, the hike to the lighthouse is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) round trip. Follow the marked trail south from the village. The trail is marked with cairns (stone markers), but some can be small and difficult to spot. The hike is considered moderate in difficulty and takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete, including time to explore the lighthouse area. Be prepared for steep ascents and potentially wet terrain.

Discover more about Nólsoy Lighthouse

The Nólsoy Lighthouse, known locally as Nólsoyarviti, is more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of resilience and Faroese ingenuity. Constructed between 1892 and 1893 from carved basalt and granite rocks sourced directly from the island, the lighthouse sits dramatically on a cliff 62 meters (203 feet) above sea level. Its location on the southeastern point of Nólsoy makes it a prominent landmark, visible from Tórshavn and far out at sea.Originally equipped with one of the largest lenses of its kind, the lighthouse boasts a powerful beam that can be seen for miles. During World War II, the lighthouse suffered damage in an air raid in 1941, and the British constructed additional buildings nearby to mislead German forces. These buildings remain today, adding another layer to the site's historical significance. The lighthouse was repaired in 1948 and continues to stand tall at 14 metres (46 feet).A visit to the Nólsoy Lighthouse offers a rewarding experience for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. The 12-kilometer (7.5 miles) round-trip hike from Nólsoy village is a popular trek, offering breathtaking views of the island's rugged landscape and the surrounding ocean. Along the way, hikers can explore the remains of an old docking place called Stallurin and, with a bit of luck, spot puffins nesting along the cliffs.While the lighthouse itself is automated and not open to the public, the journey to it and the surrounding scenery provide a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and maritime heritage of the Faroe Islands.