Skarvanes

Skarvanes is a secluded hamlet in the nature-filled Faroe Islands. Nestled along the rugged coastline on Sandoy Island, this picturesque settlement captures the essence of traditional life in the archipelago.

There are merely 10 colourful houses huddled against the backdrop of rolling hills. Skarvanes offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking an off-the-beaten-path location on Sandoy Island.

Surrounded by the untamed beauty of the North Atlantic, the remote Skúvoy Island provides a breathtaking backdrop when exploring the settlement. From this place, you might see the small ferry to Skúvoy Island crossing the strait.

Driving to the Settlement

If you come to Skarvanes by car, park the vehicle on the left hand side where the road divides into two. Walking through the peaceful settlement, soak in the timeless ambiance and get a true sense of local traditions and the simplicity of life. Visiting Skarvanes is all about stepping back in time and savouring the untouched beauty of the Faroe Islands. You are likely to meet few if any other travellers when visiting this place.

Skarvanes is located a 7 km (4.3 miles) drive from the village of Sandur. The road to Skarvanes is single-track with lay-bys along the route.

Short Walk from Skarvanes to Lake Dúniavatn

For those who want to take a memorable walk, Skarvanes is a gateway to the outfield. There is a small lake nestled on the mountain above the village. The walk from Skarvanes to Lake Dúniavatn takes around 15 minutes and you will get there after 1 km (0.6 miles).

Look for the short wooden poles painted blue next to the small parking lot in the village. From here, go for the scenic walk offering tranquil views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to check the ever-changing weather in the Faroe Islands before you put on your hiking boots. While walking, you will see the dramatic landscapes unfold before your eyes.

Hike from Skarvanes to Dalur

Sandoy Island is one of the easiest islands in the Faroe Islands for hiking, with gentler terrain and lower mountains than the rest of the islands. One of the best short hikes is the historic cairn trail between Skarvanes and Dalur, part of a network of “highways” that people used to reach neighbouring villages before the roads were built.

The route is approximately 5 km (3.11 miles) one way and typically takes 1,5 to 2 hours to complete. The highest elevation is 293 m (961 ft), and the hike is relatively easy with only a short steep hike up from Skarvanes (or Dalur if starting from there).

Starting in Skarvanes, follow the upper road south out of the village. At the end of the road, follow the trail marked by blue wooden poles and stone cairns. The first section is the steepest, with a steady climb followed by some flatter terrain and a second short ascent.

Continue along the mountainside, following the markers. Around halfway, the trail begins a gradual descent toward Dalur. As you lose elevation, the beautiful small village comes into view below. The trail eventually joins a gravel road leading down into the village.

The hike can be done in either direction. For a one-way hike, arrange transport from the opposite village or hitchhike. Alternatively, you can return along the same trail.

Beata Leifsdóttir Skaalum

Beata Leifsdóttir Skaalum is born and raised in Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands. She now lives in Sandavágur on Vágar Island located near the only airport in the archipelago. Before becoming the manager at the enchanting Fiskastykkið restaurant in Sandavágur, she did her internship with Guide to Faroe Islands in Tórshavn. Beata holds a degree in Marketing Management from Glasir Tórshavn Collage.

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