Gjógv Gorge and Natural Harbour
A dramatic sea-filled gorge and charming village on Eysturoy Island, offering stunning basalt cliffs, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas & puffin sightings
Gjógv Gorge and Natural Harbour
Best Time
Calm seas & puffin sightings

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic sea-filled gorge and charming village on Eysturoy Island, offering stunning basalt cliffs, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
"Gjógv epitomizes the Faroes’ untamed beauty—where geological grandeur, resilient history, and raw Atlantic energy converge."
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid private lots! Park near the church or along the fence south of restrooms. :car:
💰 Bring Cash for Trails
Some scenic hikes require a 50 DKK cash fee. Be prepared! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gjógv Gorge & Natural Harbour
The heart of the village
A dramatic sea-filled gorge with steep basalt cliffs, historically used by fishermen. Crystal clear waters and stunning views.

Cliffside Hiking Trails
To the left and right of the gorge
Explore paths with steep steps for panoramic views or venture further for more challenging hikes. Keep an eye out for seabirds!

Picturesque Village Charm
Gjógv village
Wander through charming grass-roofed houses and soak in the remote, peaceful atmosphere of this unique Faroese settlement.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Trail Fees & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Where to stay? Gjógv or Tórshavn
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid private lots! Park near the church or along the fence south of restrooms.
:car:💰 Bring Cash for Trails
Some scenic hikes require a 50 DKK cash fee. Be prepared!
:moneybag:Faroe Islands Itinerary Advice –
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be steep and slippery. Wear good walking or hiking boots.
:athletic_shoe:🌬️ Check the Wind
Fierce winds are common. They can impact trail accessibility and your overall experience.
:cloudwithwind_face:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid private lots! Park near the church or along the fence south of restrooms.
:car:💰 Bring Cash for Trails
Some scenic hikes require a 50 DKK cash fee. Be prepared!
:moneybag:👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be steep and slippery. Wear good walking or hiking boots.
:athletic_shoe:🌬️ Check the Wind
Fierce winds are common. They can impact trail accessibility and your overall experience.
:cloudwithwind_face:🐦 Birdwatching Opportunities
During summer, look for puffins and seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
:feather:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Gjógv Gorge and its picturesque village setting. The dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and charming grass-roofed houses create a memorable experience. While parking and trail fees are minor considerations, the overwhelming sentiment is that Gjógv is a must-visit for its unique geological features and serene atmosphere.
"Pretty town with picturesque cove. Note: there is public parking at cove, many tourists stop at private parking on way into town. There is a hike to left of cove with steep steps. You can go up to gate for scenic views. To go up over the hill, you need to pay 50k cash. It was too windy to attempt, but on nice day would have gone. There is nice restaurant at the inn as leave the city. Service isn’t speedy, but food was decent. The pasta and sandwiches looked best."
Patti Glaza
"Great little remote village with a nice gorge. Didn’t pay for the trail though, but the trail till the gate was good enough already. You may see some puffins if you’re paying attention along the cliff. Kind of difficult to find parking here, found some tourists parked in the private parking lots in the entrance of the village. Not so sure about that, I parked just ahead of the church next to a campsite."
Mato San
"It looks amazing and better then I expected. Worth to see and walk around the village. There is also nice view on Kalsoy island. In upper part there is a hiking path but we didn’t take it as it was paid by cash or transfer"
Agata XYZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gjógv is located on Eysturoy Island. The drive from Tórshavn typically takes about 45-60 minutes. You'll drive through scenic landscapes, often crossing bridges or tunnels connecting the islands. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Gjógv and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
While public buses do serve some villages in the Faroe Islands, reaching Gjógv via public transport can be time-consuming and may involve multiple transfers. For flexibility and ease, especially if you have a toddler, a rental car is highly recommended.
The village itself is small and walkable. However, to explore the gorge and surrounding hiking trails, sturdy footwear is essential. Parking within the village can be limited, so arriving early is advised.
Faroese roads are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding. Be mindful of sheep on the roads, especially outside of villages. During winter, icy conditions can occur, so drive cautiously.
Yes, you can drive to Gjógv. There is public parking available near the gorge and restrooms. However, be aware of private parking areas that some tourists mistakenly use.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the village and the main gorge area is generally free. However, some of the more extensive hiking trails that go beyond the immediate gorge area, like the path over the hill, require a small cash payment (around 50 DKK).
Payment for the hiking trails is typically collected in cash at designated points, often near the start of the paid sections. It's advisable to have small denominations of Faroese Krona (DKK) with you.
Gjógv is a village and a natural attraction, so it doesn't have traditional opening hours. You can visit at any time. However, the best experience for views and accessibility is during daylight hours.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Gjógv. It's a natural attraction and a village. The only potential 'ticket' is for specific hiking trails, which you pay for on-site.
The main restriction is related to weather. During severe storms or high winds, access to certain exposed areas might be unsafe. Always be mindful of the weather conditions and your own safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning natural harbor and gorge, walk along the cliff paths, hike to scenic viewpoints, and wander through the charming village with its grass-roofed houses. In summer, you might spot puffins.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can take the steep steps down into the gorge, walk paved paths to the cliffs, or embark on more challenging trails over the hills. Some trails require a fee.
During the summer months (May to August), there's a good chance of spotting puffins and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs around Gjógv.
Walk down the stairs to the bottom of the gorge for a unique perspective. Then, explore the paved paths on the cliffs to the right for wider views. Be prepared for wind and wear sturdy shoes.
The village itself is manageable. However, the hiking trails can be steep and have uneven terrain, so caution is advised with very young children. The main gorge path and village exploration are generally fine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located at the Gjáargarður Inn as you leave the village. It's known for decent food, with pasta and sandwiches often recommended. Service can be a bit slow, so be patient.
The restaurant at the inn offers a range of dishes, including local Faroese specialties, pasta, and sandwiches. It's a good place to refuel after exploring the gorge and village.
While the inn's restaurant is the primary dining option, there aren't many other cafes or snack bars directly within the small village. It's best to plan for a meal at the inn or bring your own snacks if you're out for an extended hike.
Gjógv is a very small village and does not have a grocery store. You'll need to purchase any food or supplies you need in larger towns like Tórshavn before heading to Gjógv.
The dining hours for the Gjáargarður Inn restaurant can vary, especially outside of peak season. It's advisable to check their current operating hours upon arrival or in advance if possible.
📸 📸 Photography
The gorge itself offers dramatic shots with its steep cliffs and the sea. The village with its grass-roofed houses provides charming, picturesque scenes. The viewpoints from the cliffside trails offer expansive ocean and island vistas.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography, especially for the village and gorge. Midday can be harsh, but still offers dramatic contrast for the cliffs.
Yes, during the summer months, you can photograph puffins nesting on the cliffs. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing them up close.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge and landscapes. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife like puffins. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the waves.
There are no specific photography restrictions for the general village and gorge areas. However, always be mindful of private property and respect any signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Toddlers
For hiking, stick to the more accessible paths like the stairs into the gorge or the paved cliff trails. Avoid the steeper, more challenging hikes that may not be suitable for little ones. Parking can be a challenge, so arriving early is key. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to the inn. The drive to Gjógv from Tórshavn is scenic and manageable, but ensure your toddler is comfortable with car travel.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Be prepared for variable weather conditions, which are common in the Faroe Islands. Carrying a map, compass, and appropriate gear is advisable for longer hikes. The opportunity to pay for trail access means you can venture further afield for more challenging routes. Meeting locals or other travelers at the inn can also be a pleasant experience.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
For wildlife photographers, the summer months offer the chance to photograph puffins and seabirds nesting on the cliffs. A telephoto lens will be beneficial for this. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most atmospheric light. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a sturdy tripod for stable shots, especially in windy conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel: Gjógv Gorge
The sheer scale and raw beauty of the gorge are awe-inspiring. Visitors can descend into the gorge via steep steps, experiencing the power of the ocean up close. Paved paths lead to the cliffs on the right side, providing elevated perspectives of the gorge and the surrounding seascape. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, hiking trails branch out from the village, offering further exploration of the dramatic landscapes. The water within the gorge is often described as crystal clear, reflecting the dramatic skies above.
During the summer months, the cliffs surrounding Gjógv become a vibrant ecosystem, attracting numerous seabirds, including puffins, which nest on the ledges and the nearby sea stack, Búgvin. In contrast, winter brings powerful Atlantic waves that crash against the cliffs, creating a spectacular display of "white foam." This duality highlights the dynamic nature of Gjógv, a place where geological grandeur meets the raw energy of the ocean.
Navigating Gjógv: Parking and Trails
Once parked, exploring Gjógv involves navigating its unique terrain. The village itself is small and easily walkable, allowing you to admire the traditional grass-roofed houses and the peaceful atmosphere. For the main attraction, the gorge, you can descend via a set of steep stairs, offering a unique perspective from the water's edge. The cliffs to the right of the gorge are accessible via paved paths, providing excellent vantage points for photography and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Beyond the immediate gorge area, several hiking trails beckon. A trail to the left of the gorge leads up towards a gate, offering scenic views. For more ambitious hikers, paths ascend over the hills, promising even more expansive vistas. It's important to note that some of these more extensive hiking routes require a small fee, typically payable in cash (around 50 DKK). Always wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven, steep, and potentially slippery, especially after rain or in windy conditions.
The Village of Gjógv: History and Culture
Despite its picturesque charm, Gjógv has experienced a significant population decline over the decades. From a peak of 210 residents in 1950, the population dwindled to just 19 in recent years. This demographic shift underscores the challenges faced by remote island communities. However, the village retains a unique character, marked by its traditional grass-roofed houses that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. It's also home to some unexpected modern industries, including the Faroe Islands' only concrete factory and a fish farm, showcasing a blend of tradition and contemporary enterprise.
Adding to its unique story, Gjógv hosts landmarks like "Mary's Bench," installed in honor of Denmark's Crown Princess, and an incline railway that historically helped winch goods between the harbor and the village. These elements contribute to Gjógv's narrative as a place of enduring spirit, where the echoes of its fishing past meet the quiet rhythm of modern island life. The village offers a glimpse into the authentic Faroese way of life, far from the bustling capital.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit