Faroe Islands and the sweetness of seclusion

I’ve had my eye on the Faroe Island chain for what seems like years now. You know, those weather beaten isles in the Norwegian Sea? This small chain of 18 islands with its rolling hills, fluffy placid sheep, and thatched roofs seems like the perfect place to linger for a few contemplative months. To perhaps write that book or complete some other lengthy project. Most European backpack aficionados are well familiar with the islands, but a surprising amount of people seem gloriously unaware of them.

Vágar Airport is the islands’ only airport and offers a limited flight service. Due to the short runway, only certain airplanes can safely land at the airport. There is talk to extend the runway to facilitate more flights, but currently Atlantic Airways, the islands’ national carrier, serves only 10 destinations, making this destination unreachable from most locations around the world.

What is the attraction? Is it the fact that it is a bit out of the way? Are we still chasing that elusive secluded destination that no one knows about? Are we still looking for The Beach? Is it the thrill involved in getting there? The rocky cliffs, the short runway, and typical bad weather? Ultimately, the Faroe Islands are not really that out of the way, and get their fair share of tourism to be sure. Maybe it’s just the draw of something a little different. Iceland is just a bit North, and the UK looms a bit to the South, and while these two destinations are overrun with tourism, the Faroe Islands remain comparatively untouched.

Or maybe it’s just the puffins.

Do you dream of any semi-secluded destinations?

(Photo Credit: Tripadvisor.com)