
Nólsoy
Journey to the
Edge of the World
Just a short ferry ride from Tórshavn, Nólsoy offers a distinctly different atmosphere. Away from the bustling life of the capital, this small island envelops you in a tranquil embrace, where the spindrift of the sea and the mist clinging to the hills whispers tales of trolls and princesses. Here, the island’s vibrant community thrives in harmony with nature, and the rhythms of daily life are gently shaped by wind and wave. Nólsoy invites you to slow down and discover a world where culture and nature beautifully intertwine.

History
The small island of Nólsoy
There are three inhabitants of Nólsoy who became especially famous outside the island. Nólsoyar Páll (1766-1809), who took up the fight against the trading monopoly and the Danish officialdom in the Faroe Islands; Ove Joensen (1948-1987), who rowed alone from the Faroe Islands to Denmark; and Steffan Danielsen (1922-1976), the self-taught painter who was unknown during his lifetime, but whose paintings are today sold for high prices.

Birdlife
On the eastern side, there is abundant birdlife. Puffins nest here in large numbers, but it is another bird that ornithologists from all corners of the world travel to see: the Storm Petrel. The world’s largest colony of Storm Petrels is in Nólsoy. The Storm Petrel is in flight all day, searching for food, so it is only at night that bird enthusiasts can see it. However, Nólsoy is more than just birds and history.

Music
The small village is also renowned for its music scene. The well-known musicians Kim Hansen and Terji Rasmussen both live in Nólsoy, as do Spælimenninir úr Nólsoy and Hilmar Joensen.
How to Nólsoy
Where do i book tickets for the ferry to Nólsoy?
You can book tickets and see the timetable on www.SSL.fo – They have approximately 7 trips a day between Tórshavn and Nólsoy
Should I bring my car?
Since Nólsoy is so walkable, there’s really no need for a car. In fact, bringing one can be quite a bit of a hassle, so you’ll have a much better time without it!
Food shopping in Nólsoy
The local grocer in Nólsoy provides all the essentials and is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 17:30, and Saturdays from 9:30 to 13:30.
Hiking in Nólsoy
Borðan: Embark on a scenic trail along the western slopes of Nólsoy to the iconic lighthouse on the Borðan-promontory to the south (12km, 5 hours).
Stongin: Explore the scenic walking paths north of the village, including local heritage sites (2km, 1 hour).
Discover stories from Nólsoy
The story about the princess in Nólsoy
The story about the pirates in Nólsoy
The story about Ove Joensen from Nólsoy
For more info,
contact the expert
If you have any questions, you’re very welcome to get in touch with our specialists in the field.
Bjarni is ready to help you with any inquiries related to Nólsoy — he’s our local expert.
Opening hours for Visit Nólsoy:
- Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Saturday: 13:00 – 17:00
Bjarni Lisberg
Front desk information, sales & service – Visit Nólsoy