Kalsoy and Kallur Lighthouse

Kalsoy is long, thin and so pierced by tunnels that Faroese call it the flute. A single road runs its length through four narrow single-lane tunnels to the village of Trollanes at the northern end, and from there a walk of about forty-five minutes climbs to the Kallur lighthouse, standing small and white on a green headland with sheer cliffs falling away on both sides and the peaks of neighbouring islands lined up across the water. It is among the most dramatic short walks in the North Atlantic, and the ridge behind the lighthouse is where the exposure becomes real.

What you actually see

• Kallur lighthouse - the small white light on its knife-edge headland.
• The ridge views - Kunoy, Vidoy and Eysturoy across the sound.
• The tunnel road - four single-lane tunnels along the island's spine.
• Trollanes village - the tiny settlement at the road's end.

When to go

May to September for the walking season, with long daylight in June and July. Fog frequently hides the entire view. Ferry crossings are weather-dependent and the small boat fills with cars in summer - arrive early or go on foot.

Honest expectations

A landowner fee applies for the trail. The path is boggy and the final approach to the lighthouse runs along ground that drops sheer on both sides - in strong wind it is genuinely dangerous, and people have been blown off their feet. The ferry has limited car capacity and queues form; going as a foot passenger and walking or taxiing is often easier. Facilities on the island are minimal.

Nearby

Klaksvik, Vidareidi and the northern islands.