Trælanípan: The Slave Cliff and Floating Lake
Hike to the Slave Cliff on Vágar Island for stunning views, Viking history, and the famous 'lake above the ocean' optical illusion.
Trælanípan, also known as the Slave Cliff, is a dramatic 142-meter-high cliff on Vágar Island in the Faroe Islands. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the optical illusion of Lake Leitisvatn appearing to float above the sea. The site is steeped in Viking history, with legends claiming it was a place where slaves were pushed to their deaths.
A brief summary to Slave Cliff (Lake Above the Ocean)
- Tróndargøta, Miðvágur, FO
- +298285008
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the Faroe Islands can change quickly.
- Be prepared to pay a hiking fee to access the trail.
- Stay a safe distance from the cliff edge, as it is steep and unprotected.
- Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the optical illusion of Lake Leitisvatn.
Getting There
-
Walking
The hike to Trælanípan starts near the village of Miðvágur. From the main road in Miðvágur, turn towards the church and follow the signs for "Trælanípa/Bøsdalafossur". The trail is approximately 3 km each way and takes about 1 hour to walk. The path is well-maintained but can be muddy in places. Be prepared to pay a hiking fee at the landowners' reception near the start of the trail. As of July 2025, the hiking fee is 200 DKK per person.
-
Public Transport
To reach Miðvágur by public transport, take bus line 300 from Tórshavn or Vágar Airport. The bus journey from Tórshavn to Miðvágur takes approximately 40 minutes. From the airport, the bus takes only 5 minutes to Miðvágur. Get off the bus in Miðvágur and follow the walking directions to the Trælanípan trailhead. As of July 2025, a single bus fare from Tórshavn to Miðvágur costs approximately 30 DKK. From the airport to Miðvágur is approximately 20 DKK.
Discover more about Slave Cliff (Lake Above the Ocean)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Viðarlundin á Tungu
0.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Viđarlundin á Tungu, a stunning park in Sandavágur, Faroe Islands, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Smiðjan
0.7 km
Experience the flavors of the Faroe Islands at Smiðjan, a local restaurant blending tradition with stunning views.
Miðvágs kirkja
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Miðvágur's Lutheran Church, a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of the Faroe Islands.
Magn Miðvágur
0.8 km
Discover the beauty of the Faroe Islands with a convenient stop at Magn Miðvágur, your essential gas station and travel hub.
Standbeeld Mikkjal á Ryggi
0.8 km
Explore the Mikkjal á Ryggi Statue in Sandavágur, a historical landmark celebrating Faroese heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Kristjanshavn
0.9 km
Discover Kristjanshavn, a peaceful hotel in Miðvágur offering a gateway to the stunning landscapes and rich culture of the Faroe Islands.
Magenta Guesthouse
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality of Magenta Guesthouse in the heart of the Faroe Islands, your perfect base for adventure.
Sandavagur Bus Stop
1.9 km
Discover the Faroe Islands from Sandavagur Bus Stop, your essential transport hub for exploring stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Giljanes Hostel & Campsite
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of the Faroe Islands at Giljanes Hostel & Campsite, your cozy home away from home.
Giljanes
2.0 km
Explore Giljanes, a serene school in Sandavágur, Faroe Islands, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Fiskastykkið // Úti á Gjógv
2.7 km
Discover the taste of the Faroe Islands at Fiskastykkið, a charming café in Sandavágur offering local flavors and stunning views.
Sandavágs Bay
2.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sandavágs Bay, a hidden gem in the heart of the Faroe Islands, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
KÁLVALÍÐ
1.2 km
Discover Faroese heritage at KÁLVALÍÐ museum in Miðvágur, exploring local history, traditions, and the captivating stories of the Faroe Islands.
Sørvágsvatn
2.0 km
Discover Sørvágsvatn, the breathtaking 'floating lake' of the Faroe Islands, where nature's beauty meets stunning optical illusions.
Trælanípa
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs of Trælanípa in the Faroe Islands, a stunning tourist attraction offering unparalleled natural beauty and serene landscapes.
Bøsdalafossur Waterfall
2.9 km
Witness the breathtaking Bøsdalafossur Waterfall where a lake dramatically plunges into the Atlantic Ocean on the Faroe Islands.
Witches Finger Trail
3.0 km
Hike to the iconic Trøllkonufingur rock formation in the Faroe Islands for stunning views and a touch of local folklore.
Klovningur
3.6 km
Discover Klovningur, a mesmerizing Faroe Islands landmark with dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and panoramic ocean views near Sandavágur.
Trøllkonufingur Viewpoint
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas of Trøllkonufingur Viewpoint, a serene escape in the stunning Faroe Islands, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Nix
4.3 km
Discover the captivating Nix sculpture on the Faroe Islands, where art, nature, and folklore intertwine along the scenic Sørvágsvatn lake.
Krígssavnið
5.2 km
Explore Faroese resilience during WWII at this immersive museum in Sørvágur, featuring personal stories and wartime artifacts.
Faroe Islands War Museum
5.2 km
Explore the untold story of the Faroe Islands during WWII at this immersive historical museum in Sørvágur.
Trøllkonufingur
5.9 km
Hike to the iconic Trøllkonufingur on Vágar Island and witness the legendary 'Troll Woman's Finger,' a stunning rock formation steeped in Faroese folklore.
Village Museum Sørvágur
6.6 km
Step back in time at Sørvágur Village Museum and discover the captivating history and traditions of the Faroe Islands in a picturesque setting.
Dunnesdrangar
6.7 km
Hike to the iconic Dunnesdrangar sea stacks on Vágar Island for breathtaking views of the Faroe Islands' rugged coastline.
Puffin Safari Boat Tours
7.1 km
Experience the magic of Faroe Islands' puffins on an unforgettable boat tour departing from Sørvágur, with stunning views and expert guidance.
Fjallavatn
9.9 km
Escape to Fjallavatn, the Faroe Islands' serene hidden gem. Hike through stunning landscapes and discover tranquility by the inky waters.
Essential places to dine
Fish an Chips
0.9 km
Experience authentic fast food at Fish and Chips in Sandavágur—where fresh ingredients meet stunning island views.
Faroe Fish Dinner
1.0 km
Experience authentic Faroese cuisine with delicious seafood dishes at Faroe Fish Dinner in Miðvágur.
Asian Food Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors in Miðvágur's hidden culinary gem amidst stunning Faroese landscapes.
Café Zorva
5.3 km
Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Café Zorva in Sørvágur – where every dish tells a story.
Resturant Cafe Pollastova
6.5 km
Discover authentic Faroese cuisine at Restaurant Café Pollastova in Sørvágur – where every meal comes with breathtaking views.
Pakkhúsið í Bø
10.0 km
Discover authentic Faroese cuisine at Pakkhúsið í Bø, where local ingredients meet stunning landscapes in a cozy dining atmosphere.
Fjósið
10.2 km
Discover authentic Faroese cuisine at Fjósið in Bøur, where local ingredients meet breathtaking island views.
Krambúðin
12.5 km
Experience authentic Faroese flavors at Krambúðin, a charming brasserie in Vestmanna offering delicious local cuisine in a cozy setting.
Disvoy
12.6 km
Discover authentic Scandinavian cuisine at Disvoy in Vestmanna, where local ingredients meet traditional flavors amidst stunning island scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bónus
0.7 km
Discover the best local and international flavors at Bónus in Sandavágur, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler in the Faroe Islands.
FK Super Market
0.7 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at FK Super Market in Miðvágur – your one-stop shop for Faroese treats and groceries.
Fiskarin - Vagabokhald.com
0.7 km
Explore the Faroe Islands with expert guidance and top-notch gear from Fiskarin, your go-to hunting and fishing store.
Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins - Miðvágur
0.8 km
Discover the finest selection of local beers and wines at Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins in Miðvágur, a treasure trove of Faroese spirits.
Dávur’s TuneUp Shop
0.8 km
Discover the essential rest stop at Dávur’s TuneUp Shop in Miðvágur, offering clean facilities for travelers exploring the stunning Faroe Islands.
Sorella Miðvágur
1.1 km
Discover Sorella Miðvágur, a charming boutique in the Faroe Islands offering unique women's clothing, beauty products, and local treasures.
Bartalstova
2.8 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Bartalstova, a charming grocery store in the heart of Sandavágur, Faroe Islands.
Tatink tattoo
2.9 km
Discover the unique artistry of Tatink Tattoo in Sandavágur, where each tattoo tells a story reflecting your Faroe Islands adventure.
Húsfríðkan
3.0 km
Explore creativity at Húsfríðkan, Sandavágur's beloved yarn and paint store, where artistry flourishes in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Tattoo Culture
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant tattoo culture in the Faroe Islands at Tattoo Culture, where artistry meets individuality in a stunning coastal setting.
Paint the Faroe Islands
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant art of the Faroe Islands at Paint the Faroe Islands, a unique gallery and studio that showcases stunning local creativity.
Duty Free Fae
5.0 km
Experience unparalleled shopping at Duty Free Fae in the Faroe Islands, where luxury meets local charm in a stunning setting.
KAFE FAE
5.0 km
Discover the flavors of the Faroe Islands at KAFE FAE, your perfect coffee stop in Sørvágur, offering warmth and local charm.
Luksusdjór
6.5 km
Discover Luksusdjór, your go-to animal feed store in Sørvágur, Faroe Islands, offering quality products and local charm in a stunning landscape.
PE Sørvágur
6.5 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at PE Sørvágur, your go-to grocery store in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel Vagar
5.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and Faroese charm at Hotel Vagar, your gateway to stunning landscapes and local culture.
Guesthouse Hugo
6.9 km
Discover the charm of the Faroe Islands at Guesthouse Hugo, your cozy retreat in Sørvágur's breathtaking landscapes.
Cafe Kai
7.4 km
Discover Café Kai in Sørvágur, a cozy café offering delicious local treats and breathtaking views in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Magnstøðin í Vestmanna
12.7 km
Discover the charm of Magnstøðin í Vestmanna, a unique gas station offering bakery delights, fast food, and delicious ice cream.
Múlafossur Waterfall
14.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Múlafossur Waterfall in the Faroe Islands, where stunning nature meets serene tranquility, creating an unforgettable experience.
Múlafossur Cottages
14.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Múlafossur Cottages in the Faroe Islands, where breathtaking nature meets modern comfort for an unforgettable retreat.
Gásadalsgarður
14.6 km
Experience the essence of Faroese cuisine at Gásadalsgarður, where stunning landscapes meet culinary excellence.
Niđristova
18.2 km
Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Niđristova, a culinary gem in Hvalvík, where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.
Joe Pizza
18.3 km
Discover the taste of Italy in the heart of Faroe Islands at Joe Pizza, where every slice is a journey into flavor.
Greek food BEFO
21.9 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Greek Food BEFO in Tórshavn, a culinary oasis in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Mykines
22.0 km
Explore Mykines Island, a birdwatcher's paradise in the Faroe Islands, where stunning cliffs and serene landscapes await your discovery.
Mass & Mia
22.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Mass & Mia Bar in Tórshavn, where local charm meets vibrant nightlife in the scenic Faroe Islands.
Húsagarður
22.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of the Faroe Islands at Húsagarður, a top dining destination in Tórshavn, known for its locally-sourced cuisine.
HAMSA
22.3 km
Experience exceptional dining at HAMSA in Hoyvík, where local flavors meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Karet – food // coffee // drinks
22.4 km
Experience the flavors of the Faroe Islands at Karet, where food, coffee, and drinks come together in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
