Things To Do
in Kunoy

Kunoy is a rugged, windswept island in the Faroe archipelago known for its dramatic mountains, deep green valleys, and jagged coastline. Its small villages feel remote and welcoming, offering a tranquil contrast to busier Faroese towns. The scenery ranges from granite cliffs and sea-stacks to quiet farm ruins and panoramic ocean views.

With dependable hiking paths and a strong connection to the sea, Kunoy is a quiet gateway to authentic Faroese nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Enchanting Valleys
morning
:

Start your adventure with a peaceful hike through the lush valleys of Kunoy, surrounded by dramatic cliff faces and cascading waterfalls. Capture the breathtaking scenery as the sunlight dances on the grass, creating a mesmerizing landscape. Don't forget your camera to immortalize the stunning contrasts between the green hills and the dark ocean below.

afternoon
:

After a hearty lunch at a local café, delve into the intriguing history of the island by visiting the small but fascinating Kunoy Museum. Engage with the local stories that reflect the vibrant culture and heritage of the Faroe Islands. Consider taking a stroll along the rugged coastline, enjoying the crisp air and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to one of the scenic viewpoints for a panorama of the island bathed in golden hues. Share a meal with the locals in a traditional Faroese restaurant, savoring dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. End the day with a peaceful walk under the stars, reflecting on the beauty of the untouched nature surrounding you.

day 2
Adventure Across the Highlands
morning
:

Awake early to embark on an exhilarating hike to the highlands, where you can experience the stunning rugged terrain and expansive vistas. As you trek upwards, discover hidden trails and unique wildlife that inhabit this pristine environment. Take time to appreciate the tranquility and solitude that comes with being surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

After reaching the top, enjoy a well-deserved picnic with views that stretch out over the surrounding islands and fjords. Capture the awe-inspiring landscapes, filled with deep green valleys and crystal-clear waters, as they spread out beneath you. Challenge yourself with a more difficult trail for a chance to explore the less-traveled paths of Kunoy.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation to rest and refresh before dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Head to a cozy restaurant to try local delicacies, perhaps tasting the renowned Faroese lamb or fish. Wrap up the evening with a local folklore story by the fireplace, gaining deeper insight into the island's cultural roots.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or small drink$3-6
💾Local SIM/data plan$15-30
🧥Winter jacket$100-200
🏠1-bedroom apartment (monthly)$900-1500

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning rugged landscapes and coastline views
  • Quiet, uncrowded environment away from crowds
  • Strong local culture and welcoming residents
  • Accessible hiking and outdoor activities
  • Relatively short travel to nearby towns for services
  • Limited on-island amenities and nightlife
  • Weather can be unpredictable and windswept
  • Public transport is more limited than in larger cities
  • Some services and restaurants may have seasonal hours
  • Higher travel costs due to remote location
  • "Góðan dag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Hvussu nógv kostar tað?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Vinaliga" - Please
  • "Eg skilji ikki" - I do not understand
  • "Gæti eg fingið ...?" - Could I get ...?

Places to Visit in Kunoy

Visit one of these nice places.

Kunoy Church and valley backdrop

A picturesque setting with a small church framed by green valleys and distant mountains, ideal for golden-hour photography.

Coastal cliffs along Kunoy Sound

Dramatic sea cliffs and crashing waves offer powerful landscape shots, especially with changing weather and light.

Kunoy Ridge viewpoint

A high vantage point providing sweeping views of the island’s rugged spine and the open sea beyond.

Kunoy Lighthouse

Historic beacon with sea panoramas; a classic spot for sunset or moody seascapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kunoy

Kunoy’s cuisine centers on fresh seafood and lamb, prepared in simple, hearty Faroese style with seasonal produce. Expect straightforward, satisfying dishes that highlight the ocean and countryside.

Kunoy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Skerpikjøt (wind-dried mutton)

A traditional Faroese delicacy. Slices are often available in guesthouses or during special events; ask locally if it’s being served during your stay.

Must-Try!

Ræst kjøt (fermented meat)

Historic meat preparation; sometimes featured on special menus or farm visits. Availability varies by season and establishment.

Plokkfiskur (mashed fish with potatoes and onions)

A comforting, everyday Faroese fish dish commonly found in local eateries and guesthouses.

Fresh cod or haddock

Caught locally and often prepared grilled, fried, or in a simple fish soup; a reliable option at most eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Klaksvík Market (regional market nearby)

Market stalls nearby where you can sample seafood, dairy products, and crafts; best visited during market days.

Seasonal coastal stalls

Seasonal stalls along the coast offering shellfish and baked goods; great for a fresh, casual bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Faroe Islands have a subpolar oceanic climate: mild but windy and wet year-round. Temperatures typically range from around 5°C in winter to 12–15°C in summer, with frequent rain and strong Atlantic winds. Weather can change rapidly, so layering and waterproof gear are essential.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for nature and privacy

Stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing farms or livestock, and dress modestly when visiting small villages. Greetings are friendly; a simple hello or takk goes a long way.

Quiet dignity in villages

Keep noise levels down in residential areas and at private homes; regional etiquette emphasizes politeness and straightforward communication.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe, but weather can turn hazardous quickly. Always check a reliable forecast, alert someone of your plans if you’re hiking, carry a charged phone, and wear appropriate footwear. Remote areas may have limited cell service and longer response times for emergencies.

Tipping in Kunoy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary, and many charges are included in service. If you’re happy with service, a small round-up or a few extra kronur is appreciated for exceptional service.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with mild temperatures (often 10–15°C). Trails are accessible, weather can still shift quickly, and wildlife is active. Ideal for hikes and coastline photography.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures and stronger winds; changing foliage and stormy seas create dramatic skies. Bird activity peaks at times; plan flexible itineraries.

Winter

Cold and windy with short daylight hours. Some routes may be challenging or inaccessible; dress warmly and bring layers, waterproofs, and navigation basics.

Spring

Milder conditions return with variable weather and fresh greenery. Great for quieter trails, birdwatching, and early-season photography.

Nightlife Guide

Kunoy at Night

Kunoy’s nightlife is low-key due to its small size. In nearby towns like Klaksvík or the capital region, you’ll find bars and pubs with local music, but late-night options are limited on the island itself. Most evenings center around guesthouses, calm coastal strolls, or stargazing.

Hiking in Kunoy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kunoy Ridge Trail

A challenging highland hike along the island’s spine with sweeping sea views and exposed sections; requires good footwear and weather awareness.

Coastal Footpath to the Northern Cape

Scenic coastline walk offering dramatic ocean views and opportunities to observe birdlife and rugged geology.

Airports

How to reach Kunoy by plane.

Vágar Airport (FAE)

Main international gateway to the Faroe Islands (near Sørvágur). Flys connect to Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Reykjavik, and other regional hubs; access to Kunoy typically involves a road transfer via the islands' road network.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kunoy is best experienced on foot along village paths and coastal trails. Within the village itself, walkable distances are short, but longer routes require a vehicle or bus transfer to reach trailheads or viewpoints. Paths are often rugged and uneven, so proper footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Faroese residents

Predominantly native Faroese people living in small coastal communities, with a strong fishing and farming heritage.

Seasonal workers and visitors

A small number of seasonal workers and international visitors who supplement the year-round population, especially in peak travel times.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

A popular sport across the Faroe Islands, with local clubs and community matches contributing to weekend activity and social life.

Handball

Common in schools and clubs; usually played indoors and supported by local communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light and roads are narrow and winding. Driving is on the right. Public transport is provided by the island network and regional services; buses connect Kunoy with Klaksvík and other towns, with schedules varying by season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kunoy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options exist, though meat and seafood are central in many dishes. Look for salads, root vegetables, dairy, potatoes, and vegetable-forward plates; ask for adaptations when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available through local clinics in Klaksvík and the broader Faroese health system, with emergency transport to larger facilities in Tórshavn if needed. For routine care, many visitors rely on the national network and regional clinics; in an emergency, call local emergency services.

Discover Faroe Islands

Read more in our Faroe Islands 2025 Travel Guide.

Faroe Islands Travel Guide