Syðradalur (Streymoy Island)

Syðradalur lies on the west coast of Streymoy Island in the unspoiled Faroe Islands. This small settlement is a hidden gem visited by very few people.

Syðradalur translates directly to “The Southern Valley”. Its sister village, Norðradalur, which means “The Northern Valley”, lies just a few kilometres north of Syðradalur but the two are not connected by road.

Syðradalur lies 20 minutes drive from Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. The ride to the tiny hamlet along the west coast of Streymoy Island is beautiful and serene.

A farmer and his family lives in the deep valley. That is about it. Go to Syðradalur for its remoteness and undisturbed coastal views.

Driving to Syðradalur

The road to Syðradalur is quite epic. Head southwest out of Tórshavn towards the village of Velbastaður, then drive through the village and follow the road along the coastline. Now the ride will get exciting as the narrow road leads you along the shoreline with steep mountains on your right-hand side and the ocean to your left. If you have a fear of heights, keep looking straight ahead as there are only a few metres from the road to the steep oceanside cliffs.

After a few minutes, you will descend the zig-zagging road and enter the valley where the tiny settlement is located. If you are lucky, the farmer is working outside. If so, make sure to have a chat with him about rural life.

There are lots of epic viewpoints along the route. Park your car at some of the lay-bys, and capture the beauty surrounding you. You will be blessed with fantastic views of the popular Vágar Island that is home to the airport of the Faroe Islands. You can also see the uninhabited Koltur Island, and Hestur Island, which is home to a very small community. A sunset here is quite spectacular.

As most people do not know about Syðradalur, you are likely to not come across other people or cars on your trip.

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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