Nólsoy Island
Nólsoy Island: A tranquil Faroese gem offering puffin colonies, dramatic lighthouse hikes, and a charming village escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak puffin season!
Nólsoy Island
Best Time
Peak puffin season!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nólsoy Island: A tranquil Faroese gem offering puffin colonies, dramatic lighthouse hikes, and a charming village escape.
"A very calm and beautiful island, perfect for getting back to nature."
🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips
Visit in late June for best chances. Look for burrows along the cliffs . Be patient and respectful of their habitat.
👟 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain. Weather can change rapidly, so pack layers and waterproofs .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Puffin Colony
Coastal cliffs
Witness thousands of adorable puffins nesting on the cliffs during the summer months. A truly unforgettable wildlife encounter!

Nólsoy Village
Southern tip of the island
Explore the quaint, colorful village with its historic houses and harbor. Experience the slow pace of island life.

Lighthouse Hike
Northern end of the island
Trek to the iconic 18th-century lighthouses for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Puffin Paradise & Hiking Trails
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips
Visit in late June for best chances. Look for burrows along the cliffs.
Be patient and respectful of their habitat.👟 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain. Weather can change rapidly, so pack layers and waterproofs.
⛴️ Ferry Schedules
Check the ferry timetable from Tórshavn. It's frequent and an affordable way to reach the island.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours
Consider a local guide for hikes; they offer great insights and ensure safety.
Puffins
Tips
from all over the internet
🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips
Visit in late June for best chances. Look for burrows along the cliffs.
Be patient and respectful of their habitat.👟 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain. Weather can change rapidly, so pack layers and waterproofs.
⛴️ Ferry Schedules
Check the ferry timetable from Tórshavn. It's frequent and an affordable way to reach the island.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours
Consider a local guide for hikes; they offer great insights and ensure safety.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The dramatic landscapes and wildlife offer endless photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Nólsoy as a peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty, particularly its abundant puffin population and scenic hiking trails. The charming village and frequent ferry service from Tórshavn add to its appeal. Some note the limited dining options and the ruggedness of the hiking paths.
"Great place to see Puffins! Beautiful island and nice village.
Ferry commutes frequently from Torshavn, 40 DKK per person"
Florian
"Beautiful hike around Nolsoy with a local guide. Highly recommend."
D L
"Next to the Capital where you get back to Nature where real values are essential."
Torben Nielsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Nólsoy is by taking the ferry from Tórshavn. The ferry is frequent and the journey is short, typically around 20 minutes. The cost is very reasonable, around 40 DKK per person.
Check the latest ferry schedules as they can vary.Parking is very limited in Nólsoy village itself, as it's a small community. Most visitors arrive by ferry and explore the island on foot. If you're driving to Tórshavn, it's best to park in the capital and take the ferry.
Absolutely! Nólsoy is a perfect destination for a day trip from Tórshavn. You can easily spend a few hours hiking or exploring the village and still catch a ferry back in the afternoon.
The primary way to explore Nólsoy is by walking. The village is compact, and hiking trails lead to the lighthouses and scenic viewpoints. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
There are no public buses or taxis on Nólsoy. The island is small enough to be explored on foot. For longer distances or if mobility is an issue, consider arranging a local guide who might offer transport assistance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees to visit Nólsoy Island or its village. The only cost associated with visiting is the ferry ticket from Tórshavn.
Nólsoy is a residential island and is accessible year-round. The village is always open, and hiking trails are accessible during daylight hours. The ferry operates on a schedule, so check that for your travel times.
Yes, guided hikes are highly recommended, especially for reaching the lighthouses and learning about the island's history and wildlife. Local guides can enhance your experience significantly.
The lighthouses themselves are typically not open for public interior tours. The main attraction is the hike to reach them and the stunning views they offer from the outside.
Ferry tickets can usually be purchased at the ferry terminal in Tórshavn before departure. For popular times, it's advisable to arrive a little early, but advance booking is generally not required for standard travel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Nólsoy offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching, particularly puffins in season.
Hiking to the lighthouses is a must, offering incredible views. You can also explore the charming village and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.The puffin season on Nólsoy typically runs from late April to August, with the peak viewing period being in late June.
They nest on the cliffs, so keep an eye out for their burrows.The trails can be rugged and uneven, especially the path to the northern lighthouse. They are well-trodden but require sturdy footwear. The hike offers dramatic coastal scenery and is a highlight for many visitors.
Yes, Nólsoy can be great for families, especially those who enjoy nature and gentle exploration. The village is safe, and shorter walks are manageable. Puffins are a big hit with children.
Pack layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential. Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
Don't forget your camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nólsoy has a limited number of dining options. There's typically a small cafe or restaurant in the village, but it's advisable to check their opening hours in advance, especially outside of peak season. Many visitors bring their own snacks.
There might be a small shop in the village for basic necessities, but it's not guaranteed to be well-stocked. It's recommended to bring any specific snacks or drinks you might want from Tórshavn.
Faroese cuisine often features fresh seafood, lamb, and root vegetables. You'll find traditional dishes and modern interpretations. In Tórshavn, you'll have more dining choices.
Dining on Nólsoy, like in the Faroe Islands generally, can be moderately expensive. Bringing your own picnic is a budget-friendly option for a day trip.
Options can be limited, especially in smaller villages. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe or restaurant. Many places can accommodate dietary needs if informed in advance.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire island offers stunning photographic opportunities. Key spots include the colorful village houses, the dramatic coastal cliffs teeming with seabirds,
the historic lighthouses, and panoramic views from the hiking trails.Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, the dramatic Faroese weather can create unique photographic moments at any time of day.
A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village shots. For wildlife like puffins, a telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) can be very useful to get close-up shots without disturbing them.
Be patient and observe their behavior. Try to capture them returning to their burrows with fish. Always maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, many local guides are knowledgeable about the best viewpoints and times for photography. Inquire when booking a guided hike.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Wonders: Puffins and Seabirds
Beyond puffins, Nólsoy is home to a variety of other seabirds, including storm petrels, guillemots, and fulmars. The research work conducted on the island highlights the importance of these habitats for bird populations. When exploring, remember to tread lightly and observe from a distance to minimize disturbance to the wildlife. Binoculars are highly recommended for a closer look at these fascinating creatures in their natural environment.
Hiking to the Lighthouses: Trails and Views
Many visitors recommend taking a guided hike, as local guides can provide valuable insights into the island's history, geology, and birdlife, while also ensuring safety on the trails. The hike is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the raw, untamed beauty of the Faroe Islands. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions; layers and waterproof gear are a must, even on a seemingly clear day.
The Charm of Nólsoy Village
While the village is small, it’s the heart of the island community. You might find a small cafe or shop, but it’s best to come prepared with any specific needs from Tórshavn. The tranquility of the village, combined with its stunning natural backdrop, makes Nólsoy a refreshing escape from the bustle of the capital city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit