Attraction Guide: Vestmanna Grottoes, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Vestmanna Grottoes Guide

Vestmanna Grottoes: A Boat Tour Through Nature's Sculptures Guide

The Vestmanna Grottoes, also known as the Bird Cliffs, are a series of sea caves and cliffs located on the west coast of Streymoy, near the village of Vestmanna. These dramatic formations have been carved by the relentless power of the North Atlantic Ocean over millennia. Boat tours take visitors through narrow passages, past towering cliffs, and into deep grottoes, offering a unique perspective on the Faroese coastline and its abundant birdlife. The Vestmanna cliffs have been a significant landmark for centuries, serving as a navigational aid for sailors and a rich source of seabirds for local communities. The area's geological history is evident in the layered rock formations, showcasing the effects of volcanic activity and erosion. The grottoes themselves have been explored and admired for generations, but it was the development of organized boat tours that made them accessible to a wider audience. The main activity at the Vestmanna Grottoes is taking a boat tour. These tours typically last for around two hours and provide a thrilling experience as you navigate through the narrow passages and into the dark grottoes. You'll have the opportunity to see a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, nesting on the cliffs. The tours are weather-dependent, so it's essential to check the conditions before booking. Vestmanna village offers several restaurants where you can sample Faroese cuisine, including fresh fish and traditional dishes like skerpikjøt (wind-dried mutton).

Transportation

Bus route 200 from Tórshavn goes to Vestmanna. From the bus stop in Vestmanna, it's a short walk to the harbor where the boat tours depart.