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Key Takeaway My Villarraldfjall hike turned into a battle against wild winds, zero visibility, and sheer determination. Reaching the summit felt unreal, but the experience showed how unpredictable the Faroes can be, and how rewarding the journey becomes when the clouds finally break. |
THE NORDIC SERIES, DAY 6
FAROE ISLANDS
Getting blown off Mt Villingardalsfjall. Another hike was on the cards today, but unfortunately, the weather had taken a change for the worse.
WE COULDN’T SEE AND COULDN’T STAND, IT’S JUST TOO DANGEROUS
On arriving at Vidoy, I saw high winds and low clouds, expecting to reach the mountain’s foot and turn back.
VILLINGDALSFJALL
Villingdalsfjall hike is challenging, even in calm weather, making today’s conditions even more difficult. Upon arrival, I met five Americans who had just returned, and I asked them about the hike and its duration.
“We got below the clouds, which took about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and then turned back. We couldn’t see or stand; it’s just too dangerous.”
What a way to fill me with confidence. Anyway, I was sure even if I got halfway as they did, I’d still get a good photo and then turn back if I needed to, so on I went.
THE WIND
The Villingardalsfjall hike is flat for the first few hundred metres, and then from there is a steep climb. A rest every five minutes is necessary until you’re well warmed up. The wind was strong and, at times, completely overwhelming as I had to spend a good hour crawling on my hands and knees. I had to wait for the wind to calm down before running from boulder to boulder for cover. About 1km in, I realised why the other group turned back, but I continued slowly.
IT GOT WORSE
About 100m from the top, I told myself No! This is impossible, turned back and began walking down again, as the wind was almost unbearable. But being ultra competitive, I had to go on; I wasn’t content with getting this far. Every rock seemed like the summit until the next ridge revealed another, with still 1km to go. From here, the views were the best as you began climbing over the mountain away from the view of the town, Vidareidi.
IT STARTED TO CLEAR
As I got closer, the clouds began clearing from the peak, making it safer to climb with better visibility. Still running on my hands and feet, I made it to the next high point and could finally see the summit, another few hundred metres, but it was definitely it this time! At this point, the wind, although strong, was considerably less than before, which helped.
Note how low the clouds are
THE FINAL FURLONG
The last 800m are rocky and require a slow pace; boots would have been helpful here. The peak was covered in snow, so you just don’t know where you’re putting your feet.
But in all honesty, I was in no mood for hanging around and needed to keep going before the clouds came in again! At the peak, I quickly took photos, trying to absorb the view while monitoring the cloud cover. Somehow, it was a lot more sheltered up here, but I seriously couldn’t relax.
I am definitely glad I did the hike, although if it were the same conditions, I wouldn’t be going anywhere near it! If you are in the Faroe Islands and the weather is relatively calm, then I couldn’t recommend it enough. Yes, it can be difficult, but anyone can do it with frequent breaks.
GJOGV
After the hike, I drove to Gjogv, passing through breathtaking landscapes that rival any in the world. Gjogv has a special charm; it is quintessential Faroese, with its many dark wooden, turf-roofed houses. Typically, the village sat in a bay which was pounded by the aggressive seas of the northern Atlantic. After finally coming to terms with its magic, I headed to the natural harbour, a small sheltered cove used as a slipway, stunning!
GJAARGARDUR GUESTHOUSE
I was in 2 minds about what to do tonight. I usually like to drive when it’s dark, as long as I’m not missing out on anything, since it saves me the drive in the morning. After again looking at the choices on booking.com, I had no option but to stay. There was availability in only four hotels in the entire country, but Gjaargardur Guesthouse proved to be a decent choice and meant I could enjoy the same village in the morning again.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Just glad I didn’t get stuck up there!
NEXT UP
The most charming village on the island! Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
137/229
This post is part of The Nordic Series. Click to explore, or for episode 1, click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
Question Time
- Have you been to the Faroe Islands?
- Did you do any hiking? Where?
- What was your experience like?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
