Discover Kalsoy Island: A Faroe Islands Adventure

The Faroe Islands are known for their wild nature, deep fjords, steep mountains, and green hills that seem to come straight out of a dream. Each island has its own character and beauty, but during our adventure in the Faroe Islands, the island of Kalsoy stood out in particular. With only four villages and around 80 inhabitants on an 18 km long island, you can easily explore Kalsoy in one day.

The Island of Kalsoy

→ Recommendations: Discover the Faroe Islands with Nordic
→ Where to Stay: You can find this cottage in Mikladalur just like the Kalsoy Cottages.

The Journey to Kallur Lighthouse

Our day on Kalsoy began with a ferry ride from the port of Klaksvik, a 20-minute journey that took us along cliffs and through narrow bays. Once ashore, our real adventure began: the Kallur Lighthouse Hike, a trek that would take us to the iconic Kallur lighthouse. This walk, which takes about an hour and a half, goes steeply up. There is no marked path, so we were glad to have a guide to lead us up. Along the way, she told us more about Kalsoy, which means ‘men’s island’, and the island across from it, Kunoy, which is known as ‘women’s island’. The two islands never lose sight of each other.

During the climb, the view became more spectacular. Green hills, sharp rock peaks, and the endless ocean on the horizon. Once at the top, at the lighthouse, we were rewarded with a breathtaking panorama over the 537-meter-high cliff Borgarin. It is no surprise that this impressive landscape was chosen for a crucial scene in the James Bond film No Time To Die. The fame of this place has even led to a peculiar tribute: local residents have erected a grave for James Bond.

hike to Kallur Lighthousewalking to the lighthouse KalsoyKalsoy, Lighthouse hike

The Legend of Kopakonan

In addition to the natural spectacle, Kalsoy also has a deeper, mystical side. One of the most famous legends of the Faroe Islands is that of Kopakonan, the seal woman, and this legend takes place on this island. According to the story, seals can come ashore as humans for one night each year. On one of these nights, a farmer from Mikladalur decided to wait on the beach and saw a group of seals shedding their skins and turning into people. He stole the skin of a beautiful seal woman so that she could not return to the sea. Due to this loss of her freedom, she was forced to marry him and lived for years as a human. One day, while the farmer was at sea, she found her skin in a chest and returned to the sea. There, she was reunited with her former seal love.

However, the story does not end there. Years later, during a seal hunt, Kopakonan appeared in a dream to the farmer and warned him to spare her family. The farmer ignored the warning and killed all the seals. That evening, Kopakonan cursed the men of Mikladalur; those who ventured too close to the sea would drown or fall from cliffs.

A story about the strong influence of nature and the sea on human lives and a way to explain the elusive elements of life. We visited the statue of Kopakonan, a powerful tribute at the edge of the sea and next to a waterfall. A reminder of the magic and dangers of nature and the deep connection between the islanders and the sea.

Seal woman on Kalsoy Waterfall on Kalsoy

Café Edge

End your day at Café Edge, the only café in the village of Mikladalur. After a day filled with hikes, stories, and sights that will stay with you for a long time, this small, cozy café offers exactly what you need: a warm drink, a snug spot, and a panoramic view of the rugged coastline of Kalsoy.

Café edge on KalsoyMikladalur, on Kalsoy

Plan Your Visit to Kalsoy

We visited Kalsoy in just one day during our trip to the archipelago. I have gathered all the tips in an article about the Faroe Islands. This trip was made alongside Links12.

Would you like to plan your own trip?

  • Book your flights easily via Skyscanner.
  • Want to stay on Kalsoy? You can find this cottage in Mikladalur just like the Kalsoy Cottages.

Want to read more?

This is what you want to do in the Faroe Islands, a hidden gem in Europe for nature lovers. Three unique views in the Faroe Islands: Sørvágsvatn, Mykines & Funnings kommuna. These photos will make you want to vacation in the Faroe Islands.

About Blogger Man 96 Articles
Nomadic Notepad : Nomadic Notepad is a passionate traveler and storyteller who finds joy in exploring the world’s hidden treasures and sharing them with fellow wanderlust enthusiasts. From uncovering the best-kept local secrets to reviewing futuristic accommodations, their blog offers a unique blend of travel guides, culinary adventures, and cultural insights. As a tech-savvy creator, Nomadic Notepad also dives into innovative travel trends, ensuring readers stay ahead of the curve while planning their next adventure. Every post is a window into a new journey, inspiring others to discover the extraordinary in the ordinary.Whether it’s strolling through animal-themed streets in Helsinki or unraveling the mysteries of Balinese traditions, Nomadic Notepad combines personal experiences with practical advice to craft immersive narratives. Join them to embrace a world of wanderlust, and let every story spark your own path to adventure!

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