Sandoy

Sandoy is one of the five largest islands in the Faroe Islands, named for the rare sandy beaches that set it apart from the archipelago's steep, rocky coastline. Its low, grassy hills and scattered villages give the island a calm, open character centred on fishing, sheep farming and a growing visitor economy.

Sandur, the main settlement, is among the oldest inhabited places in the Faroe Islands. Its traditional wooden church with a turf roof stands above earlier church sites, and the 1863 discovery of the Sandur Hoard, a Viking-age deposit of 98 silver coins, reflects the island's long history. The sandy beach at Sandur is one of the Faroes' best-known coastal spots.

The island's smaller villages, including Skopun, Skálavík, Húsavík and Dalur, follow a coastline of cliffs, lakes and sheep-grazed moorland. Gróthúsvatn, one of the Faroe Islands' largest lakes, and the seabird cliffs and outlying islands of Skúvoy and Stóra Dímun add to the natural appeal.

Since the 10.8 km Sandoyartunnilin opened in December 2023, Sandoy has been linked to Streymoy and Tórshavn by subsea tunnel, bringing the capital within about 20 minutes and connecting the island to Vágar Airport and the wider road network.

For travellers, Sandoy offers a slower, nature-focused side of the Faroe Islands through coastal walks, birdwatching, village heritage and easy day trips, while the improved road link also makes it a practical stop for independent and business visitors.