Toftir

Toftir is a village on the southwestern coast of Eysturoy Island in the windswept Faroe Islands. This village is home to the football stadium, Svangaskarð. Lake Toftavatn is a nearby nature attraction.

Toftir’s name is rather interesting as it translates to “ruins” in Faroese. According to local legend, the original settlement was almost completely abandoned in the 14th century following the Black Death. Although the village was later rebuilt, it is thought that its name serves as a reminder of the settlement that once stood there.

Getting from Tórshavn to Toftir

In order to get to Toftir from Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, drive through the Eysturoyartunnilin Tunnel with the world’s first subsea roundabout. The subsea tunnel stretches 11.2 kilometres (7 miles) beneath the North Atlantic Ocean and makes for an easy ride from Streymoy Island to Eysturoy Island. To get to Toftir, make sure to take the turn towards Klaksvík in the roundabout.

After emerging from the tunnel on Eysturoy Island, take the first exit in the roundabout just outside the tunnel. Now head south towards Toftir. The entire journey from Tórshavn to Toftir takes only 20 minutes.

Eysturoyartunnilin is a toll tunnel like all underwater tunnels in the Faroe Islands. No worries, though. All Car Rental companies will arrange a seamless passage through all tunnels in the Faroe Islands when picking up your car at Vágar Airport.

What to See and Do in Toftir

Once in Toftir, the village unfolds like a picture-perfect postcard. The Svangaskarð stadium, home to B68 Toftir football club, commands attention with its striking location. Built into the hillside, the ground offers spectators not just great football matches but also panoramic views of the mountains and ocean. The sight of players competing with a backdrop like this is something else!

Beyond football, visitors should prioritise a visit to Lake Toftavatn, a serene body of water surrounded by rolling hills. The lake is one of the most lovely lakes in the Faroe Islands. It is located in the low hills between Toftir and the neighbouring village, Runavík. A well-marked hiking trail circles the northern part of the lake from Runavík, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and experiencing the heather landscape that is unique to this place. The loop walk is 2 kilometres (1.24 miles) and takes around one hour to complete.

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.

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