The Faroe Islands

Remotely clustered in the North Atlantic Ocean, a rugged archipelago of eighteen mountainous islands erupts out of the ocean in imposing basalt cliffs.

The Faroe Islands, sandwiched between Nordic neighbours Iceland and Norway, offer vast, untamed and spectacular landscapes that capture the imagination and are undeniably compelling.

Travellers are overwhelmed by the grandiosity of the natural environment; the sheer sea cliffs, the unforgiving waves that break against the coastline and the lush green valleys nestling within the steep mountains.

Days are lived as nature intended: without strife, without fuss, and always subject to capricious weather. Left in relative solitude since the first settlers arrived in the fourth century, the Faroese today exhibit a vibrant culture distinctly their own.

To be Faroese is to be creative and diverse. Gifted chefs cook world-class cuisine. Artisans create masterpieces with wool and fabric. Architects design unique buildings. Artists and musicians explore their creative talents. Voices are raised in harmony. Jazz and heavy-metal infused folk music bridges the past and present, while the invasive drum beats of electropop and indie rock contribute to the eclectic strands of music genres.

The Faroe Islands, translated directly as “sheep islands”, is a self-governing nation under the external sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark. This population of over just 50,000 people are endearingly hospitable and gentle in their manner. Love for their homeland is deep and honest. They are quiet natured, peaceful, and have a strong sense of community. Hospitality is innate - their doors are always open.

Culture is the foundation of Faroese pride, with its independent language, flag and traditions. Within a generation, the prosperous fishing trade that accounts for approximately 20 percent of GDP has enabled an affluent lifestyle for the islanders. This is evident in the widespread use of technology and well-established infrastructure that connects the 18 islands by roads, bridges and subsea tunnels, making travel around the country effortless. This, together with first class telecommunications and high-speed internet, provides a solid foundation for maintaining the economic, social and cultural sustainability of communities all around the country.

Although the islands exude the sense of a mysterious land far away, they can be reached by air in only two hours from continental Europe.