Sara e Ale / Visitfaroeislands.com
Oyggjarvegurin – Norðradalur
Into the Valley
If you’re craving a ride that delivers big views, dramatic terrain, and that “middle-of-nowhere” feeling — all within biking distance from Tórshavn — then Norðradalur is calling. This hidden valley offers stunning cliffs, expansive silence, and one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Faroe Islands.
The journey is as unforgettable as the destination. After a few steady climbs, you’re rewarded with a view over the Norðradalsskarð pass — where the ocean meets sky, framed by towering peaks and deep fjords.
Route Overview
Your journey starts in central Tórshavn, cycling westward out of the city. The route takes you past small neighborhoods, then begins to climb steadily into the mountains. As you gain elevation, you’ll leave the urban scenery behind and enter a wide, open landscape shaped by wind and sea.
The road follows a smooth, winding path through the mountain pass of Norðradalsskarð, where the scenery opens up dramatically. On a clear day, you’ll have a direct view of Koltur island, rising like a perfect triangle from the sea. From there, it’s a gentle descent into the peaceful village of Norðradalur, tucked into the base of the valley.
This route offers the perfect mix of ascent, reward, and peaceful cruising, with minimal traffic and maximum scenery.
Highlights of Your Ride to Norðradal:
Norðradalsskarð
On your way to Norðadalur, you’ll pass through Norðadalsskarð, a mountain pass offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Koltur island rising from the sea like a pyramid. This is one of the most photographed spots in the Faroes — and when you see it, you’ll understand why. Perfect for a water break… and a hundred photos.
Norðradalur Village
Nestled between steep mountains and the open sea, Norðadalur is a tiny, peaceful village with just a handful of houses. The silence here is profound, broken only by seabirds and the wind sweeping through the valley. It’s a quiet reward for those who make the journey by bike.
Kaldbaksbotn
Your journey begins in central Tórshavn, following the old mountain road Oyggjarvegurin — one of the most scenic cycling routes on the island of Streymoy.
As you make your way up the gentle climb, you’ll be surrounded by raw, open nature: green valleys, windswept ridges, and the ever-changing Faroese sky. On your way across Oyggjarvegurin, you’ll get stunning views over Kaldbaksbotnur, a wide fjord wrapped in steep mountains, with the peaceful village of Kaldbak nestled at its base.
Sornfelli
Just a short detour from the main road to Norðadalur, Sornfelli offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Faroe Islands. Rising to 749 meters above sea level, the mountain is accessible via a winding road that leads to a former military radar station near the summit. While it’s a steep climb by bike, the reward is worth the effort: from the top, you’ll have panoramic views over Streymoy, Koltur, Vágar, and even out to Mykines on a clear day. On foggy mornings, the mountain often sits above the clouds, creating an almost surreal, floating landscape. This is a ride for the more adventurous cyclist—but one that promises unforgettable scenery.
Route Facts
A short but striking
The route from Tórshavn to Norðradalur takes you into dramatic mountain landscapes with wide views across the sea. After climbing steadily out of the city, the road leads you down into a quiet valley surrounded by steep cliffs and open horizons. The final viewpoint offers one of the most iconic photo stops in the Faroe Islands, overlooking the island of Koltur.
Total Distance:
Approx. 14 km (round trip)
Estimated Duration
1.5–2 hours (with stops)
Max Incline
9%
Max Altitude
248 m
Elevation Gain
Approx. 220 m
Difficulty Level
Moderate (Level 3)
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