Svartifossur Waterfall

Svartifossur Waterfall is a small waterfall in the Faroe Islands. It is located about 2 km (1.24 miles) north of the old town in the capital, Tórshavn, on Streymoy Island. This attraction is easy to reach all year round.

“Svartifossur” translates to “Black Waterfall” in Faroese, which refers to the dark stone wall behind the cascading waterfall. When there is little rain and the water flow shrinks, this stone wall appears completely black.

The waterfall is most impressive after heavy rain, when the stream Hoydalsá surges and the water rushes dramatically over the stone wall.

Getting to Svartifossur Waterfall

Svartifossur Waterfall is located in the Hoydalar Valley between Tórshavn and the suburb of Hoyvík. From the city centre, it takes about 30 minutes to walk there.

Several trails lead to the waterfall and it’s even possible to walk up to the top of it. From here, you will get a good view over the valley and to Nólsoy Island.

For those arriving by car, there is a small parking lot 100 metres (0.062 miles) south of the waterfall. You will pass the outdoor athletics stadium before you get to the parking lot.

This place is not very touristy, but you will probably meet locals out for a walk as Hoydalar Valley is a favourite among the city dwellers. It is a protected area, which means it will never be built up and will always serve as an oasis in the city.

Nearby Hotel

Those staying at Hotel Hilton Garden Inn really like taking the short walk over to the waterfall. It takes only 10 minutes to walk from Hotel Hilton Garden Inn to Svartifossur Waterfall.

When staying in one of the hotel’s rooms with a view, the room will face the valley where the waterfall is located. From their room, hotel guests can see the waterfall.

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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