introduction

The Faroe Islands are a group of 18 islands, with an area of 1399 squared kilometres, situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of Scotland and halfway between Iceland and Norway. The islands have total population of about 50,000 locals and a language and culture of their own. Where ever you go on the islands, you'll always be less than 5km away from the ocean.

Most visitors to the islands come between early July and late August when the weather is fairest.

surfing

This part of the world is where North Atlantic swell is born, as a result, you are often too close to the genesis area of these storms, fronts and depressions to enjoy clean swell. Summer is your only season here (Jun-Aug). The deciding factor is the temperature, even with the latest technology available, human life is basically unsustainable in these waters for any real period of time. You will need titanium vests, drysuts, experimental heating systems and thats just to start. Most surfers use a board with a 'diamond deck', so inbuilt onboard texture on the deck, similar to what is used in the windsurfing industry. The type of wax you would need to be effective here would be liquid at normal room temperature and so transport of it to and from the break once on your board is difficult.

Winter is dark virtually all year round and ice is a big problem, apart from the reality of hitting something it effectively attenuates any swell in the area. The months either side are really pushing the limits of human endurance but with a few hours of sunlight on average it is a possibility for the well prepared. Swells here are massive but often a near blizzard of wind and spray. Summer will bring respite as the storm cells retreat just a little further north.

Hypothermia is a real problem here and drysuits can be difficult to manouvre in. The most exciting aspect of surfing here is that it is truly pushing the boundaries of what surfing is. For once, technology is being dragged kicking and screaming behind some of the expeditions to areas such as this, any day now it is going to catch up and when that happens, extreme cold water surfing will eventially become a mainstream activity. Waves in areas such as this will be the new discoveries and uncrowded paradises of the next generation of surfers. Trade in your boardies for a 7mm steamer, booties and hood and get onboard!

travel

The Faroe Islands are small and getting around isn't hard. All the islands are connected together by one public transport system, and connected with a tolled bridge or tunnel. If you don't want to travel on the road, travelling on the ferry is another option to most of the islands. There is also a car-ferry which connects some of the main islands, though the only disadvantage is that you may have to wait in the line as there are no advanced bookings taken.

You can splurge, and take a helicopter (or a cheaper ferry) to all the faraway places. - for example to Mykines, the picturesque island far west. Atlantic Airways offers a helicopter service to selected towns and villages throughout the Faroes. The service is intended for locals and as such tourists can only book one way of a journey but you can use the ferry and bus services to make the return journey.

weather

The weather on this island is quite unpredictable, it changes quickily and varies alot. During summer, the islands are often overcast by summerfog. The harbours never freeze and the teperature in winter is considerably moderate. It can snow occassionally, but will tend to come and go quickily.

The average temperature ranges from 3 degrees Celcius in winter to 11 degrees Celcius in summer. The temperature can be much higher but the air is always fresh and clean no matter what season.

where to stay

There are many options on accommodation in the Faroe Islands, ranging from hotels to guesthouses, Bed and breakfasts and youth hostels. On the small islands, hotels will be less common, but you can find some nice guesthouses.

The youth hostels of the Faroe Islands spread across the islands, but due to limited geographical size, youth hostels are usually a walking distance from one to another. Prices do vary quite abit though and there are usually discounts for children 2-11 years old.

what to pack

The weather is maritime and quite unpredictable. Expect wind, rain, snow and sun in the same season. So a sturdy rucksack, with emergency supplies is an excellent idea. You never know what the weather might bring.

Warm clothes and camping gear for the cold weather. Bring your own medicines - this is the best thing to do.  

But basically, the islands are well set up, so if you need something, you should be able to get it.

 

 

You must be a registered user to comment. Click here to register.