Sandvík

Sandvík is the northernmost settlement on Suðuroy Island in the wild Faroe Islands. From here, you will have an undisturbed view of the archipelago’s smallest island, Lítla Dímun.

Sandvík translates directly to “The Sandy Bay”. The name refers to the wide black sand beach that lies next to the village.

Sandvík offers visitors an incredible sense of peace and a front-row seat to the raw beauty surrounding it. Seeing the uninhabited Lítla Dímun rising from the ocean from this place is one of the highlights.

Getting to Sandvík

To get to Sandvík, you first have to sail to Suðuroy Island. There are 2-3 daily departures to the island from the capital, Tórshavn. The journey takes two hours each way.

The village lies 16 km (9.94 miles) north of Krambatangi, where the ferry docks. If arriving by car, take the road going north and follow the signs towards Sandvík. On the way, you will pass through the scenic village of Hvalba. You will also go through two tunnels. The first one is a modern two-lane tunnel from 2021, whereas the second one leading from Hvalba to Sandvík is single-track with several lay-bys for passing traffic. This tunnel opened in 1969 and is among the oldest in the Faroe Islands.

Bus 701 connects Sandvík with Krambatangi and several villages on the island. But please note that most of the departures need to be requested at the latest one hour before.

Hike to Rituskor Cleft

Sandvík is the starting point for exploring the dramatic coastal scenery of northwestern Suðuroy Island. West of the village, you will find the Ásmundarstakkur Rock Pillar, a massive and solitary sea stack rising dramatically from the ocean. From there, you can hike up the mountain to a narrow wooden bridge spanning across the sheer gorge of Rituskor.

To reach these attractions, turn left at the first road you reach when entering the village. At the end of the road, there is a small parking area in front of a gate. This is where the hike starts.

Follow the gravel road to the end to get a great view of Ásmundarstakkur and then start hiking up the mountain behind you. You will soon reach a narrow gorge. Follow the trail around the gorge and don’t forget to take in the beautiful views at the end of the trail.

From there, you will see a metal wire above you. Hike up to it and follow it toward the coast until you reach the wooden bridge. This is a very old bridge that was built for sheep, so crossing it is not recommended. However, if you do wish to cross it, it’s at your own risk. And remember, only one person at a time and take it slowly so you don’t slip.

Return the same way to get back to Sandvík.

This hike is around 5 km (3.1 miles) and takes 2-3 hours. It is considered moderate as the first part along the gravel road is easy, whereas the hike up the mountain to the wooden bridge is very steep.

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.

Go to author