Hestur Island

Hestur Island is a sparsely populated isle in the far-flung Faroe Islands. The island lies in a western direction from the main Streymoy Island.

This island holds one of the most popular attractions in the Faroe Islands. With its mystical caves on the east side of the island, travellers can experience the world’s largest sea cave.

You will reach the island after a 15 minutes ferry ride from the ferry port Gamlarætt on Streymoy Island. There are several daily departures to the island inhabited by only 15 people. Due to the island’s tiny population, ferry departures are made upon request. Check the ferry to Hestur Island for further details.

There is a single cluster of houses on the island. In addition, you will find the small settlement on the island’s hilly east side facing the Hestfjørður Fjord and Streymoy Island.

Hestur Island translates to ‘the Horse Island’ due to its shape. While horse riding is available for travellers when visiting, the island itself offer no such experience. Both Eggjarrók and Múlin reaches exactly 421 m (1381 ft) above sea level and these two peaks are the highest points on the island.

You will take the ferry to Hestur Island as a foot passenger. With only a single settlement and a single road along the island, this is a car-free place for travellers.

Word’s Largest Sea Cave on Hestur Island

Hestur Island is home to the sea cave Klæmintsgjógv. What’s more, the cave is the largest of its kind in the world. The cave is accessible by boat. Boat tours to the caves found on the island’s rugged west coast depart from Gamlarætt ferry port. Take a look at this Hestur Island Cave Boat Tour and experience the deep dark caves in a zodiac boat.

North Atlantic waves have crushed against the sheer rock surface on the island’s west coast for many, many years. As a result of this ongoing exposure, caves have formed into the island itself.

Høgni Reistrup

Høgni Reistrup is the CEO and Co-founder of Guide to Faroe Islands. Born and raised in the Faroe Islands, Høgni has deep roots in the archipelago. He co-founded the marketplace Guide to Faroe Islands in 2018 as a way for travellers to plan and explore the best of the island group.

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