The Faroe Islands, or the Faroes, are one of the most beautiful places on Earth. They comprise a group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, located 320 km northwest of Scotland, approximately 580 km from Norway, and about 430 km from Iceland. This territory is one of the three constituent countries forming the Kingdom of Denmark. The islands have a total area of approximately 1,400 square kilometers, with a population of around 54,000 as of 2022.
The geographical location of the Faroe Islands makes the weather in this region change rapidly. The sun can be shining, but moments later, strong winds, clouds, drizzle, or even snow may follow. The islands are adorned with snow-capped mountains, vast grassy fields where sheep graze, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful rural houses. These islands are also inhabited by colonies of puffins, pelagic seabirds with distinctive black and white feather patterns, which usually nest on the cliffs’ summits.
One of the most captivating places in the Faroe Islands is Gasadalur, a village that can be categorized as one of the most remote villages in the world. The village is surrounded by a range of mountains, perched right on the edge of high cliffs facing the North Atlantic Ocean. This small village has no connecting roads to other villages. Before 2004, there were only two ways to reach Gasadalur. Apart from using a helicopter, the other way was to hike through the surrounding mountains, which rise over 400 meters high, and then travel a considerable distance to reach the village. Another option for the more daring was to climb the cliff surfaces.
Due to its isolated condition, the population of Gasadalur has been steadily declining. Although there were some excellent farmlands in 2002, only 16 people lived in the village. In 2012, Gasadalur had a population of 18. By 2020, the population had further decreased to 11. Fortunately, in 2004, a 4.9-kilometer tunnel was successfully built through the mountains, making it easier for the residents to travel to other villages.
Gasadalur Village boasts many breathtaking landscapes. There are so many sheep inhabiting the area that Gasadalur is widely known as ‘Sheep Island.’ Among all the stunning sights, one main attraction stands out: the spectacular waterfall called Múlafossur. Nestled amidst the lush green grass and rocky cliffs, Múlafossur waterfall is a sight to behold as its cascading waters flow directly into the North Atlantic Ocean.
That’s a glimpse of this incredibly remote and beautiful village. Despite its beauty, the number of people residing in this village continues to decline. The challenging access and the lack of adequate facilities may be contributing factors.”