Things To Do
in Hov
Hov is a tiny coastal village on the Faroese island of Eysturoy, where rugged cliffs meet the open North Atlantic. It offers a serene base for enjoying dramatic seascapes, sheep-filled hills, and quiet village life. You’ll witness fishermen at dawn, occasional ferry glimpses, and sweeping views that feel both remote and welcoming.
It’s an ideal spot to set out on hikes and day trips to the surrounding villages and fjords.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a fresh local breakfast at a cozy café, enjoying traditional Faroese bread and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the stunning coastline, soaking in the dramatic cliffs and vibrant green landscapes. Keep your camera ready as you might spot puffins and other seabirds nesting along the rugged shore.
After lunch, venture to the nearby hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The trails offer a mix of easy walks and more challenging hikes, allowing you to choose your adventure based on your energy levels. As you hike, be sure to pause and appreciate the serene ambiance of the untouched nature surrounding you.
As the sun sets, head back to Hov for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood caught that day. Engage with the locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories of your day while enjoying the warm atmosphere. Finally, take a quiet walk along the beach, where you can reflect on the day's adventures under the twinkling stars.
Start your day with a visit to the Hov Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the Faroe Islands. The museum features fascinating exhibits on traditional crafts, fishing, and the island's unique way of life. Afterward, take some time to explore the local artisan shops that showcase handmade goods and souvenirs.
Enjoy lunch at a family-run café, sampling local delicacies such as lamb soup or fish stew. Post-lunch, join a guided tour to experience traditional Faroese music and dance, which provides a deeper understanding of the island's cultural heritage. This immersive experience will leave you with lasting memories of the warm and welcoming Faroese spirit.
In the evening, attend a local cultural event or festival if available, where you can enjoy traditional Faroese performances. Alternatively, relax at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a book or game as you unwind. Embrace the tranquility of Hov as the day comes to a close.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $5-8 |
| 🏨Hotel or guesthouse per night | $120-260 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $60-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and unspoiled coastline
- Safe, friendly communities and strong cultural heritage
- High prices and limited dining/entertainment options in some areas
- Weather can be unpredictable and travel between islands may require planning
- "Góðan dag" - Good day
- "Hæ" - Hi
- "Takk fyri" - Thank you
- "Hvussu nógv kostar hetta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Farvæl" - Goodbye
- "Vælkomin" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Hov
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic sea cliffs and a sea stack; ideal at sunrise and sunset for rich color and dramatic silhouettes.
Calm waters, fishing boats, and reflections—perfect for tranquil, early-morning compositions.
Sweeping panoramas of the village, surrounding hills, and the open sea.
Patterns formed by receding tides along dark rocks and shoreline—great for abstract seascapes.
Food in Hov
Hov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional delicacy cured and air-dried; best sampled in small portions with local bread and butter.
Must-Try!
Cod, haddock, and salmon prepared simply to showcase the catch of the day—grilled, steamed, or in light soups.
Slow-cooked Faroese lamb with root vegetables, a comforting staple in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catches, local produce, and occasional street-food stalls; best experiences occur on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Hæ' or 'Góðan dag.' Quiet, respectful behavior is valued; ask before taking photos of people.
Stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing livestock, and respect private property in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hov
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving a small gratuity for good service is appreciated in restaurants and bars.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in Danish krone (DKK) is useful in smaller villages; many places also support mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer daylight hours with plenty of golden tones; seas are cooler, winds can be strong, and midges near water can be bothersome. This is peak time for hiking and sea activities, with manageable temperatures but variable weather.
Cooler days and striking sunsets; migratory birds pass through and coastal scenery becomes dramatic with changing light and weather patterns. Pack layers and be prepared for rain.
Short daylight hours and frequent storms; potential snow and icy conditions; northern lights can appear on clear, dark nights. Weather can isolate some routes, so plan ahead.
Rising temperatures and longer days; early wildflowers appear and wildlife activity increases. Weather can be changeable; layering is essential.
Hov at Night
Hiking in Hov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes with sea views and cliff overlooks.
A short climb offering sweeping panoramas of the village and coastline.
Scenic valley and gorge trail with dramatic rock formations.
Ridge walk with impressive views over fjords and villages.
Airports
How to reach Hov by plane.
Main international gateway to the Faroe Islands, located on Vágar Island; transfer by road or boat to Hov.
Small heliport primarily used for emergency medical flights and occasional tourist flights; weather can affect access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, with a strong sense of community and deep ties to farming, fishing, and local culture.
A smaller number of residents from Denmark and other Nordic countries; most sustain seasonal work in tourism and fishing.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong local clubs and a national team culture; matches and leagues are common in larger towns.
Popular indoor sport with local clubs and youth programs.
Traditional fishing activities and sea-based recreation are core to local life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many places via salads, potatoes, root vegetables, and dairy; request vegetable-forward dishes and check stock/broths for meat-based ingredients.