Faroe Islands Photography Tour – November 2025
13–20 November 2025 – A Day-by-Day Diary From a Wild and Beautiful Week
Eight days of wild Faroese weather – snowstorms, sideways hail, soft golden light, huge waves and quiet moments in between. We travelled across five islands together, shooting everything from famous viewpoints to small details like Highland cattle in the snow and a yellow house disappearing in a blizzard. The group came together fast, helping each other on hikes, sharing tips, celebrating every tiny break in the weather. Someone told me it was the best photo tour she'd ever been on. If you like mood, drama and real experiences – November in the Faroes is something special.
Tour Snapshot: November 2025 Highlights
Dates: 13–20 November 2025 (8 days, 7 nights)
Islands Visited: 5 – Vágar, Streymoy, Suðuroy, Eysturoy, Kalsoy
Group Size: 10 photographers from UK, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, USA
Weather: Snow, hail, strong winds, dramatic light, no rain
Guides: Certified Faroese guide Bogi Olsen + landscape photographer Richard Watson
Accommodation: Hotel Føroyar, Tórshavn (4-star, single rooms)
Key Locations: Múlafossur, Drangarnir, Trælanípan, Bøsdalafossur, Kallur lighthouse, Tjørnuvík, Vágseiði
How It All Started
Back in March 2023, I joined one of Richard Watson's photography tours in Donegal, Ireland. As a certified Faroe Islands tour guide and landscape photographer, I was curious to see how Richard worked with groups. We clicked right away – same humour, same passion for landscapes, same enthusiasm for long days outdoors.
At some point we said, half-seriously:
"Imagine doing one together in the Faroes…"
One year later, in October 2024, Richard flew out for a ten-day scouting trip. We drove everywhere – checking viewpoints, sunrise angles, trail conditions, safety, timings and backup plans (you always need backups in the Faroes).
By the end of that trip, everything felt right. Dates were set: 13–20 November 2025.
Fast forward to November, and we were welcoming ten photographers living in the UK, Ireland, Scotland, Canada and the USA – different backgrounds, different personalities, but all with the same spark in their eyes.
You could feel the excitement ☺️
Day 1 – Thursday, 13 November
Arrival, Snow Showers & Múlafossur
Eight people arrived via Edinburgh, three through Copenhagen. Normally, people check in first – not today.
We went straight from the airport to Múlafossur.
That moment felt big. We'd planned this tour for over a year – and suddenly here we were, watching ten photographers line up their tripods in front of the most famous waterfall in the Faroe Islands.
The weather was classic November: strong wind, snow flurries, mountain peaks dusted white. Someone had jokingly asked me before the trip if I could "arrange a bit of snow."
Well… wish granted ☺️
Everyone bundled up in full winter gear as we captured this stunning location in dramatic conditions. I stepped back for a moment to breathe it all in. Watching the group work – adjusting compositions, helping each other with settings, fully absorbed in the scene – that's when it really hit me.
We're actually doing this.
Afterwards, we drove to Hotel Føroyar, checked into our single rooms (Richard and I wanted everyone to have proper comfort and privacy), and met for dinner. The conversation was easy, warm and funny – a good start to the week.
Day 2 – Friday, 14 November
Sornfelli Sunrise & Drangarnir by Zodiac
We started early and drove up to Sornfelli (749 m). The road is usually simple, but today it was icy, so we took it slow and safe. Even without a colourful sunrise, the snowy mountain ridges and blue morning light at that altitude were absolutely stunning.
After a solid hotel breakfast, we headed to Sørvágur to meet our Zodiac boat skippers for the trip to Drangarnir – one of the Faroe Islands' most iconic sea stacks.
The skipper expertly navigated through the natural arch, slowed down so we could shoot from every angle, then dropped us off on land nearby. Three hours exploring – long lenses, wide angles, slow shutter, fast shutter – everyone found their favourite compositions.
White mountain peaks reflected in calm water. Dramatic rock formations. The kind of scene you dream about.
The ride back? Full throttle, water spraying everywhere, people laughing through the wind.
Pure joy ☺️
Day 3 – Saturday, 15 November
Suðuroy – Rituskor, Ásmundarstakkur & the Wild Power of Vágseiði
We caught the 07:00 ferry from Tórshavn to Suðuroy, the southernmost island, arriving in Tvøroyri at 09:00.
During the crossing, I checked in with some local contacts about conditions on Suðuroy – weather forecasts are one thing, but local knowledge is everything in the Faroes. They confirmed the roads were clear but warned about strong winds at elevation.
First stop: Sandvík, the northernmost village on Suðuroy. We drove upwards on a bumpy farmer's road and hiked the last stretch to the iconic "Bridge of Death" – a narrow wooden bridge spanning a dramatic cleft at Rituskor, elevated 289 metres above sea level.
From there you can see Ásmundarstakkur to the north – a stunning sea stack rising 109 metres straight out of the Atlantic. With the wind pushing hard and snow swirling around us, it felt raw and cinematic.
Plot twist: a local stopped us to say they were hunting hares that day – meaning we had a time limit. We squeezed in about three hours of shooting before the gunshots came close enough that we packed up and left in a hurry.
Some tried flying drones. The wind said no.
"His ethos is photography first – where required we were out from dawn to dusk not to miss any golden opportunity."
– Issa Farhoud
Lunch: petrol station hot dogs – the start of what became a running joke for the rest of the tour.
Then we drove south to Vágseiði, one of the most dramatic coastlines in the whole country. This stunning coastal spot on the west side of Suðuroy features breathtaking cliffs and rocky reefs where the North Atlantic waves crash spectacularly against the rugged coastline.
Massive waves smashing into the rocks, spray blowing sideways, a waterfall being blown upwards by the wind. The noise, the power, the movement – unforgettable. We captured some incredible seascapes with the harsh waves pounding the cliffs.
We ended the day at Akraberg lighthouse – the southernmost point of the Faroe Islands – before catching the 18:30 ferry back to Tórshavn.
Day 4 – Sunday, 16 November
Syðrugøta Sunrise, Sunbeams in Hoyvík & Trælanípan
Another early morning – off to Syðrugøta beach for sunrise at 06:30.
We got lucky with a bit of colour in the sky! The group shot crashing waves, practised ICM techniques, and played with long exposures. A calm, gentle start to the day.
On the drive back we made a quick stop at Old Hoyvík. The sun broke through the clouds for a few seconds, sending golden rays across the ocean. Everyone scrambled for a composition – the good kind of chaos. When the light broke through, you could hear the collective reaction: "Wow!"
Those moments – when the weather clears even briefly and everyone reacts at once – that's the magic of group photography tours.
After a late breakfast, we headed to the iconic Trælanípan (Slave Cliff) – also known as "Lake Above the Ocean." We paid our hiking fees and made the 40–45 minute trek. The wind was fierce, but everyone pushed through with good spirits and determination.
Richard and I worked together on this one – I showed people the classic viewpoints whilst he helped refine their compositions. We made a good team that way: I'd handle the logistics and safety, he'd dive deep into the creative side. All decisions made together.
Next was the hike down to Bøsdalafossur waterfall, where the lake dramatically spills into the ocean through a cliff face. Grey skies and wind continued, but no rain – and everyone was thrilled with their shots.
Two brave souls even crossed a freezing river to capture a unique sea stack perspective. They came back soaking wet but beaming with pride over their photos.
Dinner? Petrol station hot dogs and coffee again. By now the group officially declared this "The Hot Dog Tour."
Thinking About Joining a Future Tour?
If you're enjoying this story and can picture yourself on a similar adventure, I'm hosting two Faroe Islands photography tours in 2026:
→ April 2026 – Spring Light & Fresh Colours (solo tour with Bogi) Softer weather, green valleys, longer daylight, waterfalls at full flow
→ October 2026 – Autumn Colours & Atmospheric Weather (co-hosted with Richard Watson) Colourful hillsides, dramatic skies, the perfect balance of mood and comfort
Small groups. Personal guidance. Real Faroese experiences.
Day 5 – Monday, 17 November
Old Hoyvík Waves, Black Beach at Tjørnuvík & Light Trails
We started the day back at Old Hoyvík for sunrise – easy access and brilliant crashing waves thanks to the past days' strong winds.
Bigger waves today – smashing into the cliffs behind the small lighthouse on the islet. Perfect for fast shutter drama and long-lens compression. The fairly good weather (and most importantly, no rain) meant we could really focus on the photography.
During the drive, people started asking questions about the Faroe Islands – the culture, the history, how the sub-sea tunnels were built, what daily life is like here. As a certified local guide, those conversations made me feel like I was offering something beyond the typical tour. Being able to answer questions that only someone who's lived here their whole life can answer – that's when I felt most proud of what we were offering.
Then we drove to Tjørnuvík's black sand beach – a stunning location with views towards Risin og Kellingin sea stacks. We wandered around photographing the dramatic waves and powerful seascapes.
A few people got soaked feet (almost a daily tradition at this point).
More petrol station food for lunch – and plenty of laughs.
We ended the afternoon at Norðradalsskarð, the famous mountain pass with its winding road leading down to the farming village of Norðradalur. We hoped for sunset, but the weather wasn't playing along.
No sunset colour, but Richard turned it into a creative challenge: long exposure light trails as we drove the cars up and down the winding road. The goal? Capture the streaks of red and white light that could be stacked together in Photoshop to create one dramatic image. The group loved it.
That evening at 20:00, we had dinner at Áarstova restaurant in Tórshavn. The manager, James Kelly (a Scottish landscape photographer who also runs tours here), made us feel very welcome. Warm, cosy and perfect after another windy day.
Day 6 – Tuesday, 18 November
Kalsoy – Kópakonan, Snow Squalls & a Brutal Hike to Kallur
Morning ferry to Kalsoy – the "flute island" with narrow roads and one-lane tunnels.
We left the hotel around 06:30, drove to Klaksvik, and caught the ferry Sam. By now, most of the Faroe Islands were covered in snow – beautiful but cold. The ferry crossing was fairly calm, and we docked at Syðradalur, the southernmost village on Kalsoy.
Driving north, we stopped for adorable sheep in the snow (of course we did).
Our first proper stop was Mikladalur and the iconic Kópakonan (Seal Woman) statue standing on a rock down at the seashore.
The wind had really picked up by now. Huge waves hammered the shore, crashing over the statue and far up the coastline. Snow came sideways. People wiped their lenses constantly. We had to keep a safe distance, but this gave us incredibly dramatic scenes to photograph.
It was chaotic, but in the best possible way.
Around midday we drove to Trøllanes, paid our hiking fees, and started the trek to Kallur lighthouse at the northernmost point of Kalsoy – one of the most exposed viewpoints in the Faroes.
The weather was intense – strong wind, hail, snow, and gusts that made everyone lean into the ground. We used the lighthouse as shelter between shots, huddling behind it to stay somewhat warm and safe from the battering elements.
Not a single drone could fly today.
"To adapt to the chaotic, fast-changing weather of the Faroes, you need incredibly flexible logistics and the ability to pivot instantly. Bogi's deep local knowledge and photography expertise made that possible." – Elisabeth Markham
About two hours before the ferry departure, we hiked back to Trøllanes. We warmed up with coffee and food at the tiny local café (getting some heat back in our bodies), then caught the ferry back to Klaksvik.
Long, cold, absolutely brilliant day.
Day 7 – Wednesday, 19 November
Coffee, Snowstorms, Eiði, Mølin & Highland Cows
After breakfast we drove towards Eiði, stopping at Skálabotn for coffee and sunrise photos.
The weather was wild this morning – blue sky one minute, raging snowstorm the next. Proper Faroese weather on full display. Whenever we got those brief clearings in the weather, especially after being hit by snow storms, everyone got excited. There's something beautiful about those dramatic shifts – the way the light changes, the visibility suddenly opening up. You could see it on people's faces.
Near Eiði, we stopped to photograph a charming yellow house nearly disappearing in the snowstorm – simple scenes, beautiful mood.
Before entering the village, we pulled over to photograph Eiði from above. Then we parked at the old football pitch near Mølin and walked to the cliffs.
At Mølin, where the waves were crashing dramatically, Richard and I made a safety call together – we decided not to let people go right down to the shoreline. The swell was too unpredictable. It's decisions like that – made quietly, away from the group – that keep everyone safe. That's the behind-the-scenes work people don't see, but it matters.
The crashing waves were absolutely fantastic – loud, powerful, and perfect for shutter speed experiments. Everyone really enjoyed this spot.
From there, we headed back to where we started: the village of Bø and Múlafossur. Some ventured to the beach for long exposures with Drangarnir and Tindhólmur in the background, whilst others photographed the classic grass-roofed houses.
On the way to Gásadalur, we spotted Scottish Highland cattle standing proudly in the snow.
We obviously stopped. They were too photogenic to pass up!
Our final shoot of the tour was Múlafossur waterfall – ending where we began. It's a tight spot, so we took turns lining up for the iconic shot.
A full-circle moment.
I stepped back again, watching everyone work. The group had really come together by now – helping each other, sharing tips, encouraging one another constantly. Some people were quiet but curious at the start, others more talkative, but by day two and three, they'd gelled into a proper team. That's what I love most about these tours.
That evening, we had our farewell dinner at Haps Restaurant in Tórshavn and talked through our favourite moments of the week.
Day 8 – Thursday, 20 November
Goodbyes
Some participants left for the airport at 06:00, the rest at 07:30.
We said our goodbyes, and just like that, our November 2025 Faroe Islands Landscape Photography Tour came to an end.
Goodbyes after a week like this always feel a bit emotional. Different backgrounds, different personalities – but shared experiences bring people together. They'd supported each other on hikes, shared composition advice, helped with gear, and faced the wild weather side by side.
It was an absolute honour to host these wonderful people and share my islands with them. Richard and I received incredible feedback – everyone was thrilled with the tour, and nobody minded the wild weather. Sure, we had snow and strong winds, but at least no rain!
One participant told me this was the best photo tour she'd ever been on ☺️
Moments like that stay with you.
What Our Participants Said
"I did a photography workshop with Bogi and Richard Watson, and it exceeded every expectation. To adapt to the chaotic, fast-changing weather of the Faroes, you need incredibly flexible logistics and the ability to pivot instantly. Bogi's deep local knowledge and photography expertise made that possible. A special shout-out to Hotel Føroyar, a wonderfully comfortable place to collapse after a day of shooting in high winds, hail, or whatever else the islands decide to throw at you."
– Elisabeth Markham
"I have recently been on a photography tour to the Faroes with Bogi Olsen and Richard Watson, man what an incredible and beautiful archipelago and all made more incredible by Bogi and his local knowledge and connections. Bogi knows the Faroes inside out and with deep knowledge and connections he made things happen, visiting places that hardly any other tours attempt. His ethos is photography first – where required we were out from dawn to dusk not to miss any golden opportunity."
– Issa Farhoud
"Having just returned from the Faroe Islands, I have to praise the efforts of Bogi Olsen Photography in organising a very successful trip. Bogi's local knowledge ensured great locations, smooth logistics and excellent photography in sometimes difficult weather conditions."
– Andrew Dann
Photography Tips From the Tour
What worked in November conditions:
Fast shutter speeds for capturing dramatic wave crashes (1/500s or faster)
Long exposures (10–30s) for smoothing out chaotic seas
ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) techniques during flat light
Keeping spare batteries warm in inside pockets – the cold drains them quickly
Waterproof gear bags – even without rain, sea spray gets everywhere
Essential clothing for winter photography in the Faroes:
Layering system: Thermal base layer, warm fleece mid-layer, waterproof and windproof outer shell
Gloves: Winter gloves with fold-back fingers for camera operation, plus hand warmers
Footwear: Proper hiking boots with excellent grip and ankle support, winter socks, waterproof gaiters
Head protection: Warm hat and buff or balaclava for protecting face from wind and snow
Trousers: Waterproof over-trousers – essential for sitting on wet rocks and kneeling in snow
Pro tip: Windproof matters more than waterproof in the Faroes – the wind cuts through everything
Why November is brilliant:
Snow-capped mountains create dramatic contrast
Fewer tourists at iconic locations
Wild atmosphere and powerful weather
Soft, low-angled light
Authentic Faroese experience
Lower accommodation prices than summer peak season
Practical Information
Accommodation: Hotel Føroyar – 4-star hotel with single rooms, excellent restaurant, and stunning views over Tórshavn
Transport: Two people carrier vehicles for flexibility and comfort
Group size: 10 participants maximum for personal attention and manageable group dynamics
Photography level: All levels welcome – we provide guidance from composition basics to advanced techniques
What's included:
All transport during the tour
Single room accommodation at 4-star hotel
Breakfast daily
Zodiac boat trip to Drangarnir
Hiking fees for protected areas
Professional photography guidance throughout
What's not included:
Flights to/from Faroe Islands
Lunches and dinners (except opening and closing group meals)
Travel insurance
Personal equipment
Join Me in 2026
If this kind of adventure speaks to you, I'm hosting two Faroe Islands photography tours in 2026:
April 2026 – Spring Light & Fresh Colours
Solo tour with Bogi
A gentler introduction to the Faroes with:
Softer weather and milder temperatures
Green valleys and fresh spring colours
Longer daylight hours
More predictable conditions
Waterfalls at full flow from snowmelt
Seabird colonies beginning to return
Perfect for photographers who want dramatic landscapes with slightly more comfortable conditions.
October 2026 – Autumn Colours & Atmospheric Weather
Co-hosted with Richard Watson
Our follow-up to this November tour with:
Autumn colours on the hillsides
Dramatic skies and atmospheric weather
Longer daylight than November
Great light for landscape photography
The perfect balance of mood and accessibility
Both tours are small groups with lots of personal guidance and hands-on composition feedback in the field.
Interested? Get in touch through my website at www.bogiolsen.fo or contact me directly.
Limited spaces available – we keep groups small for the best experience.
No pressure, just reach out if you're curious. I'd love to show you my islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. We cater to all skill levels and provide hands-on guidance in the field. Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced photographer, you'll improve your skills and get stunning shots. Richard and I are there to help with everything from camera settings to composition.
What camera gear do I need?
A camera capable of manual settings, a wide-angle lens (14–24 mm range ideal), a telephoto for compressed landscapes (70–200 mm), sturdy tripod, and plenty of memory cards. Full detailed gear list provided upon booking.
How fit do I need to be?
Moderate fitness is recommended. Most locations involve 30–60 minute hikes on uneven terrain. We go at a comfortable pace and nobody gets left behind. The Kallur lighthouse hike is the most challenging, but it's manageable for most people.
What if the weather is terrible?
Faroese weather is part of the adventure! We adapt our schedule daily based on conditions. Sometimes "bad" weather creates the most dramatic photographs – as you can see from this November diary. Plus, we're with you every step to ensure safety and help you get great shots regardless of conditions.
Can I fly my drone?
Yes, in permitted areas. I'll guide you on where drones are allowed and help you get the shots safely. Be prepared for wind to limit flying opportunities – November is particularly challenging for drones, whilst April and October offer better chances.
Will we see the Northern Lights?
Possibly in November and October, less likely in April. We can't guarantee them, but if conditions are right, we'll definitely chase them! November offers the longest nights and best chances.
Is November really worth it despite the harsh weather?
If you love mood, drama, and authentic experiences – absolutely. November gives you the "real" Faroes. Yes, it's cold and windy, but the snow-covered mountains, powerful waves, and atmospheric conditions create incredible photographic opportunities. Just come prepared with proper clothing.
What makes your tours different from other photography workshops in the Faroe Islands? Several things set our tours apart:
Native Faroese guide: I was born and raised here, speak Faroese, and know these islands intimately
Certified tour guide: Officially certified by the Faroe Islands, ensuring legal compliance and professional standards
Deep local connections: I use local contacts for real-time weather updates and road conditions that apps don't provide
Photography-first approach: We prioritize light and conditions over rigid schedules – if the light is good, we shoot
Small groups only: Maximum 10 people for personal attention and flexibility
Two perspectives: On co-hosted tours, you get both my local expertise and Richard's professional photography teaching
Authentic experience: Not just iconic spots – we show you the Faroes as locals know it
What's the difference between your solo tours and co-hosted tours?
On solo tours (like April 2026), it's just me guiding – more intimate, very personal. On co-hosted tours with Richard Watson (like this November tour and October 2026), you get two perspectives, two teaching styles, and twice the compositional guidance. Both formats work brilliantly.
Quick Summary
8-day Faroe Islands photography tour led by certified local guide Bogi Olsen and Richard Watson across five islands. Ten photographers from the UK, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and USA experienced dramatic November weather – snow, wind, hail, and golden light.
Key locations: Múlafossur waterfall, Drangarnir sea stacks, Trælanípan, Bøsdalafossur, Kallur lighthouse, Tjørnuvík black beach, Kalsoy island, Suðuroy island, Highland cattle, Kópakonan statue, Rituskor Bridge of Death, Vágseiði cliffs.
The group bonded quickly, supported each other on hikes, and adapted to changing conditions. Daily planning used local weather knowledge and contacts. Participants described it as "the best photo tour" they'd experienced.
Next tours: April 2026 (solo) and October 2026 (co-hosted with Richard Watson).
Ready to experience it yourself?
Let's talk → www.bogiolsen.fo
Certified Faroe Islands tour guide and landscape photographer. Born and raised in the Faroe Islands. Native Faroese speaker with deep local knowledge and connections throughout the islands. My photography has been featured on National Geographic's @NatGeoYourShot. I specialize in small-group photography tours that combine technical guidance with authentic cultural insight.