Kópakonan Statue

Kópakonan is a famous statue located in Mikladalur on the long and narrow Kalsoy Island. She has the most magical abode along the island’s coastline.

When on Kalsoy Island, you can get close to the statue in the settlement Mikladalur when walking down some concrete stairs leading to the rugged seaside. Kópakonan translates to the ‘Seal Lady’ and is one of the best-known folk tales in the Faroe Islands.

The steep Kunoy Island sits in the background and makes the settings dramatic. The statue can be fully covered in surf and foam during winter storms from November to March.

Created by the acclaimed sculptor Hans Pauli Olsen, the statue is among the main attractions on Kalsoy Island. In order to reach the island, take the Kalsoy Island ferry from nearby Borðoy Island.

When to see the Kópakonan Statue

The statue of the sea woman is open to the public all year round. Simply make sure to get to Kalsoy Island with the ferry and then head north through mountain tunnels. These tunnels connect the different parts of the island together as steep mountains surround all valleys in this part of the archipelago.

There are parking spaces right next to a small stream that flows through Mikladalur. The parking lot is located close to a sheer cliff drop where the water from the stream cascades down on the black basalt floor underneath. This is the ground where the Kópakonan is located. Follow the stairs down to the plateau next along the coastline and this is where you will see the statue.

Be careful when exploring the statue on close hold during winter on windy days. This is the time of year when the ocean shows it enormous force and covers the statue in spray. You will be just fine experiencing the statue on most days.

Sveinur Tróndarson

Sveinur Tróndarson is a prominent figure in the Faroe Islands, known for his multifaceted contributions to local society, particularly in journalism, media, and culture. Born and raised in the settlement Skála on Eysturoy Island in the Faroe Islands, Tróndarson has been actively involved in shaping the public dialogue around everything from sports, politics to preserving local traditions. Sveinur holds a master’s degree in political science from the Univerity of the Faroe Islands. As a journalist, he has worked with key media outlets in the Faroe Islands, including the public broadcasting cooperation Kringvarp Føroya and as both chief editor and CEO at the newspaper Dimmalætting. His insights are valued and he is often used as an expert in news media. His commentary reflects a deep understanding of history, language, and the Faroe Island' place in the world. In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Tróndarson has taken the official tourism course in the Faroe Islands. Today, he also works as a tour guide.

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