Planning a Winter Road Trip in the Faroe Islands
Renting a car in the Faroes during winter requires a 4WD vehicle and a flexible itinerary due to rapidly changing weather. Stick to the main sub-sea tunnels and allow for at least one 'buffer day' where you stay put to wait out wind storms.
- Secure the right vehicle. Book a 4WD vehicle with winter-rated tires through a local rental agency. Do not attempt the mountain passes in a small 2WD car; if the roads are icy or snow-covered, you will slide.
- Monitor local conditions. Download the 'Landsverk' app immediately. This provides real-time updates on road closures, tunnel status, and wind speeds. Never ignore a road closure sign.
- Master the tunnels. The Faroe Islands are connected by sub-sea tunnels that bypass dangerous mountain roads. Keep your rental car's registration number handy to pay tolls online or through your agency after your trip.
- Plan for limited daylight. In December and January, you only have about 5 hours of usable light (roughly 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM). Plan your drives to be completed before dark.
- Is it safe to drive in the winter?
- It is safe if you are an experienced winter driver, use 4WD, and respect the wind warnings. If the winds are above 20 m/s, stay off the mountain roads.
- Are the tunnels free?
- No. Most sub-sea tunnels charge a toll, which is usually billed directly to your rental car account.