Scandinavian Summer Exclusive Faroe Islands

An exclusive visit to the Faroe Islands to explore villages, cliffside hikes and mountain bike riding in one of Europe’s most remote locations. You won’t find crowds in the remote islands tucked in the North Atlantic Ocean, between Norway and Iceland, politically part of Denmark. The volcanic islands are self-governed and becoming known for music festivals, steep cliffs, dramatic waterfalls and remote hiking and mountain biking. Our bike guide shares the best routes guaranteeing phenomenal views of jaw dropping cliffs and stunning waterfalls.

Wild ponies, puffins, sheep and sod roof homes contribute to the charm. Years ago, a popular Faroese crime thriller series set in the Faroe Islands, showcased the landscapes and authentic Faronese fashion including traditional hand knitted wool sweaters and mittens. Discover mittens and almost anything associated with wool from their abundant flocks of sheep, the Faroese have a multitude of phrases to describe sheep wool. We found a local knitter to specially knit the charming cat face pattern on comfy mittens for our client and her daughter. With a diet of mostly mutton, the locals have created a myriad of methods of preparing, and drying the meat and then using the skins for rugs, furnishings and clothing. The charming Coat of Arms depicts a silver ram passant with golden hooves and horns on an azure shield.

To begin, we welcome you to Copenhagen! VIP arrival and transfer to our favorite Leading Hotel, Hotel d’Angleterre. The d’Angleterre, Copenhagen’s premier hotel, traces its origins to a mid-18th-century love story. In 1755, Jean Marchal, a servant at the royal court, and Maria Coppy, daughter of the royal chef, combined their talents to establish a restaurant on Kongens Nytorv. This venture laid the foundation for what would become the d’Angleterre. Over the centuries, the hotel has evolved into a symbol of luxury and elegance. Following a significant renovation in 2013, the d’Angleterre now boasts 30 rooms and 60 suites, seamlessly blending its historic Victorian architecture with contemporary Nordic design.

Also known for their Spa & Wellness at Hotel D’Angleterre — A Sanctuary of Calm. A serene retreat in the heart of Copenhagen where timeless elegance meets holistic well-being. Designed as a peaceful escape from city life, the wellness space features a relaxing pool, sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped gym for those who wish to maintain their fitness routine on the road. Indulge in bespoke treatments, from deep-tissue massages to restorative facials and signature rituals, all thoughtfully designed to renew body and mind. Whether stretching out with a workout or closing your eyes amidst calming therapy, the spa experience here offers a perfect moment of luxury and restoration within your journey.

Copenhagen – Neighborhood Exploring & Royal Cruise. Your guide will lead you through Copenhagen’s most captivating neighborhoods, revealing cultural and architectural treasures while offering a clear sense of the city’s layout. Explore vibrant streets, soak in the atmosphere, and gain deep insights into the city’s social fabric and rich historical tapestry. Continue with a private cruise aboard a legendary vessel steeped in regal history. Glide through Copenhagen’s harbor and canals, tracing the transformation from industrial hub to cultural hotspot. Admire architectural masterpieces such as the striking Opera House and the ‘Black Diamond’ Royal Library, alongside iconic landmarks including the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace, all from the comfort of an uninterrupted, curated perspective.

Day 3 Faroe Islands Welcome to The Faroe Islands. VIP arrival and transfer to Hotel Føroyar. Set high above Tórshavn, Hotel Føroyar is beautifully integrated into the dramatic Faroese landscape, its turf-roofed architecture blending seamlessly with the surrounding hills.

From this elevated position, the hotel offers sweeping views over the capital, Nólsoy Island, and the vast North Atlantic. With 200 rooms and suites, many featuring panoramic sea views and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a Nordic Spa & gym – the hotel combines contemporary Nordic design with a deep connection to nature. Surrounded by open skies, rugged terrain, and walking paths leading directly into the landscape, it provides a peaceful yet well-connected base for exploring the Faroe Islands. A place where comfort, scenery, and silence come together in effortless harmony.

Wellness at Hotel Føroyar – Ress Spa Overlooking Tórshavn and the North Atlantic, the spa at Hotel Føroyar offers a peaceful sanctuary inspired by the surrounding Faroese landscape. Designed in a calm Nordic style, the wellness area features treatment rooms, sauna, tranquil relaxation spaces, and a modern fitness centre for those wishing to maintain their routine while travelling. A selection of restorative massages and therapies provides the perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the islands — a moment of quiet luxury framed by sea views and open skies.

Evening Dinner – at Áarstova (Old Town). Located in the old part of Tórshavn, Áarstova is a grass-roofed historic building with a charming soul dating back to 1640. Before it became a restaurant, it was the first hotel in the town, and in 1836 was granted the first license to serve alcohol in the Faroe Islands. The characteristic building also used to be the home of the Áarstova-brothers, beloved poets Janus and Hans Andrias Djurhuus and was named Áarstova, which means “The house by the brook”. The house is wedged between “Havnará” (the Tórshavn brook) and Áarvegur, the main street in old Tórshavn. The impeccable service at Áarstova is only matched by the food and wine menu, which includes fabulous, braised Faroese lamb and carefully chosen wine and Scottish ales.

Day 4  A Day Exploring Vágar and Stóra Dímun. An Exclusive Boat Tour to Drangarnir Sea Stacks. Embark on an exclusive boat adventure from Sørvágur, offering an intimate experience of the Faroe Islands’ untamed beauty. Cruise through pristine waters towards the iconic Drangarnir Sea Stacks,

where the dramatic archway stands as a natural masterpiece. Weather and tides permitting, you’ll pass through the arch for an unforgettable close-up. Continue your journey along the wild coastlines, with vistas of Tindhólmur Islet and its distinctive peaks, and discover the remote islet of Mykines. Here, you’ll explore its cliffs, alive with seabird colonies, including puffins during the summer months.This extraordinary expedition showcases the Faroes’ raw landscapes and marine wildlife, delivering a truly unforgettable day in one of the North Atlantic’s most awe- inspiring settings.

A Journey to Stóra Dímun – The Most Remote Inhabited Island in the Faroes  One of the most isolated places in the archipelago, Stóra Dímun is home to just a single farming family– Eva and Jógvan Jón – who represent the eighth generation living off the land here. With no roads, no harbor, and access only by helicopter, arriving is an adventure in itself. As you fly in, take in breathtaking aerial views over neighboring islands such as Koltur, Hestur, and Sandoy – a prelude to the magic awaiting on the ground.

Once landed, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your hosts and taken on a guided walk across the island’s dramatic landscape. Along the way, you’ll learn about their life with 500 sheep, countless seabirds, and stories stretching back over a thousand years. Highlights include views of Suðuroy and Lítla Dímun, and a visit to Kleivin – the once-perilous cliffside path that was the only connection to the outside world. Before your departure, enjoy a cozy farmhouse refreshment, with homemade treats and, if you’re lucky, a taste of their local wine. This is a true off-the-beaten-track experience – remote, rugged, and utterly unforgettable.

Relax and Reconnect at Leynar Spa. End the excursion by discovering tranquility at Leynar Spa, where Faroese tradition meets natural wellness. Start with an invigorating cold-water sea dip, followed by a soak in a wood- fired hot tub overlooking the dramatic Atlantic coastline. Unwind in a herbal sauna infused with native plants, and sip locally brewed tea in the cozy lounge. This unique spa experience blends the raw beauty of the Faroe Islands with serene indulgence, leaving you refreshed and renewed. Voted best place to go by Conde Nast Traveler 2025.

EVENING Dinner at RÆST A Journey into Faroese Fermentation Dinner Reservation & Tasting Menu. RÆST, located in the heart of Tórshavn, offers a truly unique dining experience, steeped in Faroese tradition. The restaurant is devoted to the ancient art of fermentation — known locally as ræst — a preservation method shaped by the island climate and history.

The menu celebrates the Faroese terroir, featuring fermented lamb, fish, and seasonal local ingredients prepared with both respect and creativity. Each dish reflects the depth of flavor and texture developed through time-honored techniques, interpreted through a contemporary Nordic lens. The setting is as intimate and rustic as the cuisine it serves. Housed in a traditional wooden building, the warm atmosphere evokes a sense of connection to the past. Dining here is not just a meal; it’s an exploration of Faroese culture and culinary history. Every course is accompanied by stories of how these ancient preservation techniques sustained generations of islanders. For those looking to experience the raw and distinct flavors of the Faroe Islands, RÆST offers a one-of-a-kind journey that leaves a lasting impression on the palate and the soul.

Day 5  Faroese Fishing & Dining Adventure in Árnafjørður – Experience the beauty of the Faroe Islands with a day of fishing, local hospitality, and cultural discovery. Begin with a scenic boat tour from Árnafjørður on a traditional Faroese boat, sailing past ravines, grottoes, and possibly seals. Cast your fishing line near Lisshøvdi for species like haddock and Atlantic cod, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

After returning to the marina, you’ll be welcomed into Kristianna’s cozy 1950s-style home for a delicious meal featuring your fresh catch. Relax as she shares stories of village life and Faroese traditions. Following the meal, Kristianna will guide you to key village landmarks, including the 1904 school, a 1932 self-service grocery shop, and the 1937 church, offering insights into Faroese culture, history, and religion. A perfect blend of nature, tradition, and hospitality awaits!

Day 6  Exploring the Northern Islands. A Private Voyage to Kalsoy on a Vintage Schooner. Set sail aboard, a vintage schooner, for a private journey from Klaksvík to the dramatic Kalsoy Island. Glide through fjords, with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls as your backdrop, while the crew shares Faroese tales. Stop to admire the legendary Kópakonan statue in Mikladalur, where folklore and rugged beauty meet.

Cruise along Kalsoy’s dramatic coastline, spotting wildlife and soaking in the island’s wild charm. This exclusive sailing tour blends adventure, serenity, and authentic Faroese culture into an unforgettable experience.

An Exclusive Evening with a Faroese Culinary Chef. Tonight, immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind culinary journey crafted by one of our most celebrated local chefs. With expertise honed in the best Faroese kitchens, your chef will bring the vibrant flavors of the Faroese culinary tradition to life before your eyes. This exclusive dining experience is tailored to your tastes, with a flexible menu showcasing the freshest local ingredients. Prepare for an evening of bold, unforgettable flavors that will linger in your memory long after the last bite.

Day 7 Depart Faroes Islands Check Out & Transfer to the Airport Enjoy your final morning before checking out from your accommodation.

Mérida – Cementerio General, a Resting Place

On my first visit to Mérida passing Plaza Mayor, we slowly circled through a vast cemetery, the oldest in Mérida, Cementerio General. If you like moseying through old cemeteries, this one is a particular treasure. It is the largest and oldest in Mérida and is graced with a few very spectacular headstones and mausoleums of wealthy Hacienda owners.

I am fascinated by cemeteries all over the world, a treasure trove of stories reside in these quiet reverential final burial places. Filled with history, ornate graves and personal stories. There is a word to describe people drawn to cemeteries: taphophile. The word cemetery is from Greek etymology – derived from a word which literally means sleeping chamber or burial place. Cemeteries are often considered places of peace; it has always been conveyed that they are places of rest and serenity.

A resting place, built in 1821 and is the largest cemetery in Mérida, lined with tree filled avenues and over 25,000 ornate burial sites. It is a historic, culturally rich cemetery known for its impressive mausoleums, striking architecture, and stories of famous local. The life size intricately carved stone, was mostly carved by accomplished stone cutters from Europe. The Cementerio mimics community life, the wide main avenue is lined by the houses/mausoleums of the wealthy, the casta divina families. Many historic people are buried here, and its memorials are built in Greek, Gothic or French neoclassic styles, often from stone or granite brought from Europe by local wealthy families. They range from classically beautiful to over-the-top displays of wealth, and deeper in the back you will find simple but colorful houses of the dead, all filled with restos – remains. The more humble resting place of the local folk.

Humberto, my guide, led me to a remarkable mausoleum, a shrine to a wealthy Hacienda patron. An enormous full size bed, layered with rippled linen sheets of hand carved marble, is elevated about five feet off the ground. Standing alongside the bed is a elegantly dressed woman, Rosa Benet, gently lifting the corner of the sheet to gaze at her husband, Alvaro Medina Rodriguez, who passed away while she was at a gala. The story is that he had persuaded her to go and enjoy the evening, she protested, but went and missed saying a last goodbye to her beloved husband. The work was an imitation of the work of Mexican sculptor Almo Strenta.

Often described as beautiful but also somewhat haunting, offering a glimpse into Mérida’s history and societal divisions. One surprise was the grave of an intrepid American woman, Alma Reed, who had a love affair with Governor Felipe Carillo Puerte. He, a Socialist, doing much to reform and improve the lives of the Mayan workers, was assassinated with some of his brothers and Socialist colleagues. His mausoleum is on a large circular corner, the “Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres” (Rotunda of Illustrious Men). It includes a memorial area for prominent socialists. His fiancée, journalist Alma Reed, is buried directly across the corner. Imagine in 1924, a single woman traveling by train from San Francisco to the Yucatán coast.

The Governor was in the midst of a divorce and was engaged to Alma, who was a writer for several New York and San Francisco newspapers. Alma was in San Francisco buying her wedding dress when he was assassinated. Crushed by the death of her lover and fiancée, she asked to be buried near him. Her grave is across the street from his, lovers separated by a wide road. Her story is quite unique, I encourage you to read her story or in the several books published about her life.

Many of the graves were designed and built to mirror the very European style of the homes of the deceased. The wealthy Mérida residents replicated their residences offering a gentle transition from life to the ever after. Much of the materials like the grand old buildings came from Europe. Intricate crosses, statues of figures pointing skyward, angels of silence, all symbolic.

Reports of wandering ghosts of the deceased are popular. Day of the Dead in October is celebrated for days with elaborate recreations of favorite foods of the deceased. Other posts on Mérida. Highly Recommend!