Nólsoy Island - As a 3D artist and designer, I sometimes find myself drawn to photography and living in Istanbul, with all its beauty, has turned that impulse into something truly special. I don’t consider myself a photographer, but I do allow myself to press the shutter when it feels like the right moment to capture something. Sometimes it’s a fleeting scene on the street, something that only asks for my presence and attention. Other times, it’s an image I’ve carefully constructed with intention and patience.
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Nólsoy Island

4.6
·41 reviews·, Faroe Islands

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late June

Peak puffin season!

CrowdMedium
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Nólsoy Island - As a 3D artist and designer, I sometimes find myself drawn to photography and living in Istanbul, with all its beauty, has turned that impulse into something truly special. I don’t consider myself a photographer, but I do allow myself to press the shutter when it feels like the right moment to capture something. Sometimes it’s a fleeting scene on the street, something that only asks for my presence and attention. Other times, it’s an image I’ve carefully constructed with intention and patience.

Nólsoy Island

Best Time

Late June

Peak puffin season!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(41 reviews)

"A very calm and beautiful island, perfect for getting back to nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦤 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 .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Puffin Colony

Puffin Colony

Coastal cliffs

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

Nólsoy Village

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

Lighthouse Hike

Northern end of the island

Trek to the iconic 18th-century lighthouses for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Puffin Paradise & Hiking Trails

Nólsoy is a prime spot for puffin watching, especially in late June.Reddit Plan for stunning hikes, but be prepared for changeable Faroese weather. The ferry from Tórshavn is frequent and affordable.Reddit

Embrace the Tranquility

This island offers a peaceful escape with a charming village and dramatic landscapes. It's a place to reconnect with nature and experience authentic Faroese life away from the crowds.Reddit

Best Times

When
Late June
Why
Peak puffin season!
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer day-trippers
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A little video update from the last week’s #seabird research work here in the #FaroeIslands…
benwildimages
195 likes • 2.6K views

🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips

Visit in late June for best chances. Look for burrows along the cliffs.Reddit 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.Instagram

One element of the current #fieldwork on Nólsoy, scrabbling around the basalt boulderfield trying to figure out how many Storm Petrel nests there are…big thanks to @trevormaclaurin @bywa_ryba_gorsza for the help with this so far and my folks for helping set it up last week! It’ll be really interesting to see what this sample indicates of population change since 2013… This work is being carried ou...
benwildimages
156 likes • 2.6K views
Magiske Færøerne 🇫🇴 Vandretur til Nolsoy i dag 🥾⛰️ #færøerne #nólsoy #nólsoyrfjørður #travel #rejse #vandre #hiking #hike
crumbsbytanja
118 likes • 0 views

⛴️ Ferry Schedules

Check the ferry timetable from Tórshavn. It's frequent and an affordable way to reach the island.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours

Consider a local guide for hikes; they offer great insights and ensure safety.Reddit

reddit.com

Puffins

Tips

from all over the internet

🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips

Visit in late June for best chances. Look for burrows along the cliffs.Reddit 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.Instagram

⛴️ Ferry Schedules

Check the ferry timetable from Tórshavn. It's frequent and an affordable way to reach the island.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours

Consider a local guide for hikes; they offer great insights and ensure safety.Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera! The dramatic landscapes and wildlife offer endless photo opportunities.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(41 reviews)

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

Incredible puffin sightings
Beautiful hiking trails
Quaint village atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited food options
Challenging hike terrain

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.Reddit 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.Instagram

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit Hiking to the lighthouses is a must, offering incredible views. You can also explore the charming village and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.Instagram

The puffin season on Nólsoy typically runs from late April to August, with the peak viewing period being in late June.Reddit 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.Instagram

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.Reddit

Pack layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential. Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are a must.Instagram 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,Instagram the historic lighthouses, and panoramic views from the hiking trails.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

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

Nólsoy is a wonderful destination for families looking for an accessible nature adventure. The village itself is safe and charming for younger children to explore. The main draw for kids will undoubtedly be the puffins!Reddit Seeing these unique birds up close is a magical experience. While the hike to the lighthouse can be challenging for very young children, shorter walks around the village and coastal paths are manageable. Pack plenty of snacks and be prepared for all types of weather.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike and immerse themselves in nature, Nólsoy is a dream. The trails leading to the lighthouses offer challenging yet incredibly rewarding experiences with breathtaking coastal views.Instagram The island is a prime location for birdwatching, especially during puffin season.Reddit Experienced hikers will appreciate the rugged terrain and the opportunity to explore remote parts of the island. Remember to wear appropriate gear and consider a local guide for the best experience.

📸 Photographers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Wonders: Puffins and Seabirds

Nólsoy is a haven for seabirds, most famously the Atlantic Puffin. From late April to August, the island's cliffs become a bustling metropolis for these charismatic birds. Visitors in late June often report incredible sightings.Reddit The puffins are known for their colorful beaks and their comical waddle as they return to their burrows, often with small fish in tow.

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.Instagram 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.Instagram

Hiking to the Lighthouses: Trails and Views

The hike to the two 18th-century lighthouses on Nólsoy is a quintessential Faroese experience. The most popular route leads to the northern lighthouse, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The terrain can be challenging, with rocky paths and potentially muddy sections, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.Instagram The journey is as rewarding as the destination, with dramatic coastal scenery unfolding at every turn.

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.Reddit 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.Instagram

The Charm of Nólsoy Village

Nólsoy village, the island's only settlement, exudes a peaceful and authentic Faroese charm. The colorful houses, clustered around the harbor, create a picturesque scene. Wandering through the narrow streets offers a glimpse into the slow-paced, traditional island life. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the simple beauty of your surroundings.

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.Reddit

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