Hike to Trælanípa and “the Lake Above the Ocean”
The hike along Leitisvatn/Sørvágsvatn out to Trælanípa and Bøsdalafossur waterfall are favorites both among visitors and locals – mostly because of the optical illusion that awaits at the end of the hike. The view of the lake hanging over the ocean is one of the most photographed images from the Faroe Islands.
The beautiful hike, which takes about 45 minutes to walk one way, is relatively easy and is located only a 10-minutes drive from the airport.
Hiking Guidelines/Restrictions
As you might know, there are no public wildernesses or common areas in the Faroes. This means that by Faroese legislation, you are not allowed to wander wherever you like in the wilderness of the Faroe Islands. Hence, you are only allowed hike on the old village paths. The path to Trælanípa is not one of these village paths.
A care for the nature and the sheep and wildlife that live on the uncultivated area is essential. These areas are first and foremost the feeding and breeding fields for sheep, other animals and wildlife in general. It is therefore very important that traveling on this area is on the paths and organized to minimize the disturbing of sheep, wildlife and nature as much as possible.
Therefore, the owners of the land around the lake have made restrictions to the travelers on their lands. Travelers have two options in regards of hiking to Trælanípa:
First option is to go with a guide, please book the hike in advance directly with the landowners at Trælanípa on: tralanipan.fo or Guide to Faroe Islands or other local providers.
The other option is to hike by yourself and pay a hiking fee of 200kr/person. This fee you pay at the main entrance gate in Miðvágur.
See wayfinding instructions at tralanipan.fo
If you have additional questions about the hike to Trælanípa please contact the owners of the lands on: rituberg@gmail.com or +298 207800
To read more about hiking in the Faroe Islands, please visit our site about Hiking in Vágar and Mykines and the Guide to safe hiking.