Day 9 – The Epic Journey to Drangarnir

Day 9 was a monumental one for Richard and a key highlight of his visit to the Faroe Islands: the long-anticipated trip to the iconic Drangarnir sea stacks. Known as one of the most famous and breathtaking locations in the archipelago, Drangarnir has captivated photographers worldwide with its unique natural arch and dramatic setting.

Before tackling the main event, we took advantage of the morning to explore other beautiful spots and make the most of our time.

Morning: Syðrugøta and Lamba

We started the day at Syðrugøta Beach, our now-beloved spot for practicing Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) photography. This was our third visit to this location, affectionately dubbed "ICM Beach," and we spent two hours capturing the play of light and motion at sunrise.

On our way westward, we made a stop at Lamba, a hidden gem tucked away from the main tourist routes. The rocky shoreline at Lamba provided a unique perspective, allowing us to capture striking compositions of the rugged coast. It’s one of those under-the-radar locations that surprises even seasoned visitors with its beauty.

The Journey to Drangarnir

Our original plan for Drangarnir involved a boat ride to shorten the journey. A local guide arranges trips where visitors sail close to the sea stacks, hike the final stretch, and are picked up afterward. Unfortunately, due to rough seas and high waves, the sailing was canceled, leaving us with no choice but to hike the entire route—both ways.

The hike to Drangarnir is not overly challenging but requires stamina, as it takes around two hours each way. The trail winds through scenic terrain, offering sweeping views of Sørvágsvatn Fjord and the surrounding cliffs.

Drangarnir: A Photographer’s Dream

Drangarnir, composed of two towering sea stacks, is world-renowned for its natural beauty. Its larger stack, complete with a dramatic arch, and the smaller stack nearby create a surreal scene, often complemented by the jagged silhouette of Tindhólmur, a neighboring islet with its distinctive peaks.

Once we arrived, we set up our tripods and began exploring the area. The crashing waves added intensity to the already dramatic landscape, creating a dynamic backdrop for our shots. We carefully timed our photography around the waves, venturing onto the rocky shoreline for closer compositions.

One heart-stopping moment occurred when a large wave crashed onto the rock I was standing on. Richard quickly pulled me to safety, leaving my camera and tripod behind—but fortunately, both survived unscathed.

The conditions were far from ideal for sunset photography, but even without vibrant colors in the sky, Drangarnir’s majesty was undeniable.

The Hike Back in the Dark

As the daylight faded, we began the long hike back to the car, guided by our trusty head torches. Halfway through, my torch ran out of battery, forcing me to rely on the flash from my phone for light - so always be prepared. Despite this minor hiccup, we made it back safely, exhausted but exhilarated.

General Knowledge: Drangarnir and Surroundings

• Drangarnir: These iconic sea stacks are part of the island of Vágar, accessible only by guided tours or hikes. The natural arch of the larger stack is the centerpiece, making Drangarnir one of the most photographed locations in the Faroe Islands.

• Tindhólmur: This jagged islet provides a dramatic backdrop to Drangarnir, with its five distinct peaks named Ytsti, Arni, Lítli, Breiði, and Bogdi.

• Hiking Trail: The hike to Drangarnir is approximately 7.5 kilometers round trip, with gentle inclines and panoramic views. The trail crosses private land, so permission is required, usually organized through guided tours.

• Weather Considerations: Due to its exposed location, conditions at Drangarnir can be harsh, with strong winds and rough seas. Proper gear and caution are essential.

Evening: Rest and Reflection

Back home, we showered, cracked open a well-deserved beer, and reflected on the day. After editing a few shots, we called it a night, completely worn out but deeply satisfied.

Reflections on Day 9

The journey to Drangarnir was an unforgettable adventure that lived up to its reputation. From the challenging hike to the thrill of photographing one of the Faroe Islands’ most iconic landmarks, this day was the pinnacle of our trip.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore the Faroe Islands, uncovering more awe-inspiring locations for our 2025 Landscape Photography Tour!