Sandá River Travel Guide

Sandá is a river in the nature-filled Faroe Islands. The river runs through the valley Havnardalur outside Tórshavn, the island group’s capital. There is a walking path along the river perfect for a quiet stroll.

You will see the river as you head from Tórshavn towards the historic settlement Kirkjubøur and Sandoy Island. Most people living in the suburb Argir have a view of Sandá from their property.

The Sandá River begins its journey in small streams high up in the mountains on Streymoy Island. These tiny streams then turn into a river in the valley Havnardalur. Go for a walk along the river from Havnardalur Valley. It is a great way to slow down and discover a blend natural and cultural landscapes.

Follow Sandá River to the Ocean

Starting at Havnardalur, the river meanders through a lush valley framed by softly rolling hills. Early in the walk, you will feel the pulse of life along the river—birds darting from bush to bush and sheep grazing nearby on small fenced plots of land. Faroe Islanders are renowned for their sheep and this culture is even seen in the capital as you walk along the river.

As you follow Sandá downstream, the path gently transitions from countryside to a more suburban feel. Eventually, you will find yourself in the suburb of Argir. This residential area is one of the more populous suburbs in the Faroe Islands. Here, the river provides a tranquil contrast to the surrounding homes and gardens. Alongside locals out for a jog or walking their dogs, you can observe everyday Faroese life.

Towards Sandagerð Beach

Continuing onward, the unpaved path approaches its finale at the small sandy beach, Sandagerð. This section is particularly enchanting in the late afternoon. See the sunlight reflects on the water’s surface, turning it into a ribbon of gold. The path remains accessible and well-maintained, making it suitable for walkers of all levels. Small bridges and thoughtfully placed benches invite you to pause. Take in the view and listen to the soothing flow of water.

At Sandagerð, the Sandá River finally meets the ocean. This peaceful convergence is worth lingering over. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a casual walker, walking along the river is always worth it. With most hotels in the Faroe Islands located in the capital, you will find yourself near Sandá River wherever you are staying in Tórshavn. Taker a look at public busses in Tórshavn for those not renting a car in the Faroe Islands.

Torfinnur Jákupsson

Torfinnur Jákupsson is a renowned filmmaker and screenwriter from the Faroe Islands. Born and raised in the Faroe Islands, Jákupsson has contributed to bring the culture and landscapes of this North Atlantic archipelago to a broader audience. His most notable work is Trom, a Faroese crime drama series that premiered in 2022. Trom was the first major TV series filmed entirely in the Faroe Islands. Based on local crime novels, the series follows a journalist as he investigates a murder and uncovers environmental and political tensions within the community. Jákupsson's compelling storytelling, combined with the stark beauty of the Faroese landscape, earned Trom international acclaim. The series has been broadcasted on BBC in the UK and SBS in Australia among others. Jákupsson explore themes of isolation, identity, and the interaction between traditional and modern Faroese life, resonating with both local and global audiences. He holds a master's degree from University of Westminster in Audio Production.

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