Runavik

Runavík lies on the southern half of the isle of Eysturoy in the Faroe Islands, which are located approximately halfway between Norway and Iceland.

Eysturoy is extremely rugged, with around 66 separate mountain peaks, including Slaettaratindur, the highest peak in the archipelago.

Surrounded by unspoilt nature, with 300 different bird species living on or visiting the islands, visitors can choose to hike independently or as part of an organised tour.

Not far from Slaettaratindur, in the town of Eidi, is the historical museum Á Látrinum.

The picturesque village of Gjogv is located on the northernmost tip of the island.

Gallari Ribarhús features work from local Faroese artists.

In Fuglafjørður, the Uppi a Husi refuge was used for people to hide in when pirates raided the village.

There is an Art and Boat museum in Leirvik, with displays of traditional Faroese wooden boats and an extensive collection of the works of local painters Jóannis Kristiansen and Sámal Toftanes.

Forni Village Museum in Glyvrar, features a 17th century house.

Religion plays an important role in the Faroes. On Eysturoy there are five old wooden and three modern churches (please contact the Tourist Office for opening times).

There are many activities for the more active visitor including kayaking around the islands, exploring the clear underwater world on an organised dive or horse riding over the mountains.

All travellers who are not resident in the Faroes can have the Faroese VAT (MVG) repaid for purchases over Dkk 300. Look for the blue and white “Tax Free” signs in shop windows and ask for a Tax Refund Cheque when you buy. Fill in the form and ask the shop assistant to stamp the cheque.

Local souvenirs include Faroese knitwear, stamps, handicrafts and artwork.

Traditional food from the Faroe Islands include 'skerpikjøt' (a type of dried mutton), fish and seafood (haddock, plaice, halibut, herring and shrimp), whale meat, blubber, garnatálg (offal), puffins, potatoes and limited fresh vegetables.

Cruise ships dock at Kongshavn (King’s Harbour), part of the port of Runavík, located right in the centre of town.

The central bus station is located close to the harbour area and buses operate daily to neighbouring towns. Taxis and car hire can also be found in town.

Visit the Tourist Information Centre in Runavik for more local information/maps and tours on offer.