Hidden Gems of Sandoy: Serene Landscapes Await
Day 2 - 18th October 2024
FAROE ISLANDS PHOTO TOUR
Crossing to Sandoy via the New Subsea Tunnel
The newly constructed Sandoyartunnilin made reaching Sandoy faster and more accessible. This state-of-the-art subsea tunnel has become a vital link between Sandoy and the rest of the Faroe Islands, reflecting the country’s commitment to connectivity.
Exploring Sandoy’s Treasures
Once on Sandoy, the island’s peaceful atmosphere welcomed us with open arms. It quickly became apparent why this island is a hidden gem for photographers:
Picturesque Lake and Huts: Our first stop featured a serene lake bordered by two charming huts. The scene felt like it belonged on a postcard. Although a sudden rain shower cut our visit short, the reflections on the lake created mesmerizing images.
Skopun’s Giant Mailbox: In the village of Skopun, we visited the world-famous giant mailbox, standing at an impressive 7.42 meters tall. Its quirky charm added a lighthearted moment to the day.
Cliffside Views and Sea Stacks: A 30-minute hike brought us to a dramatic viewpoint overlooking towering cliffs and restless sea stacks. The gale-force winds made the experience exhilarating and challenging, but the striking vistas were well worth the effort.
Warming Up in Sandur
As the rain returned, we sought shelter in a cozy café in the village of Sandur. A bowl of hearty soup and a frothy cappuccino provided much-needed comfort. The warmth of the café, combined with the rhythmic sound of rain on the windows, offered a peaceful interlude in our day.
Evening Highlights: Skálavík and Velbastaður
On our way back, we made two more memorable stops:
Breaking Waves in Skálavík: We captured dramatic long-exposure shots of waves crashing against the rugged coastline. The dynamic movement of the water against the jagged rocks made for striking compositions.
Velbastaður Pier: As the day came to a close, Richard suggested a detour to a pier he had noticed earlier. The setting sun provided soft lighting, adding warmth and depth to our final images.
Reflections on the Day
Despite the rain and wind, Day 2 was a resounding success. Sandoy’s tranquil yet untamed beauty offered a wide array of photographic opportunities, proving once again that flexibility is essential when exploring the Faroes.
Photography Tip
Always have weatherproof gear when photographing in the Faroe Islands. Rain and wind can create unexpected but dramatic shots, especially when paired with iconic landscapes.
Changing Plans to Chase Better Weather
Day 2 began with the unpredictability of Faroese weather—strong winds and rain loomed in the forecast for the northern islands. Instead of risking limited visibility, we pivoted our plans and headed south to Sandoy, an island renowned for its gentle terrain and tranquil beauty. This decision proved to be a highlight of our trip, as the serene landscapes offered a refreshing contrast to the rugged cliffs of Day 1.
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Morning Stops: Velbastaður and Kirkjubøur
On the way to Sandoy, we made two incredible stops that blended Faroese history with its raw natural beauty:
Velbastaður: Perched dramatically on steep cliffs, this small village offers breathtaking coastal views. We took advantage of the calmer morning light to capture stunning drone footage of the area, showcasing the interplay between the cliffs and the open ocean.
Kirkjubøur: As one of the most historically significant villages in the Faroe Islands, Kirkjubøur is a treasure trove of cultural and architectural wonders. We wandered among the ancient ruins of Magnus Cathedral and admired St. Olav’s Church, which has been in continuous use since the 12th century. The juxtaposition of these ancient structures against the windswept coastline created captivating compositions.