Why Eysturoy
Eysturoy, whose name translates to East Island, is the second-largest island in the Faroe Islands by both surface area and population. Positioned directly east of Streymoy across a narrow sound, the island features a highly mountainous terrain defined by dozens of distinct peaks. Among these is Slættaratindur, which stands at 880 meters and represents the highest elevation in the entire Faroese archipelago. Two major fjords, Skálafjørður in the south and Funningsfjørður in the north, cut deep into the landmass, nearly dividing it into two separate sections, connected by a flat central isthmus known as Millum Fjarða.
Several key population centers are situated across Eysturoy. Fuglafjørður serves as a major hub in the north, while the southern region features a densely inhabited zone surrounding the municipalities of Runavík and Nes. On the eastern shore, Glyvrar acts as the headquarters for Bakkafrost, the country's largest commercial business and a major international fishing enterprise. The island also hosts four top-tier football clubs and holds regional rowing festivals across various towns, including Fuglafjørður and Runavík.
Travelers exploring the island can visit notable settlements such as Eiði and Gjógv, the latter recognized for a natural harbor set within a rock formation. The village of Gøta is home to the Blásastova historical museum, while Fuglafjørður features thermal springs known as varmakelda, where water reaches 18 degrees Celsius. Coastal landmarks include the basalt sea stacks of Risin og Kellingin off the northern shoreline. Additionally, official locations designated for traditional whale driving are located at several island inlets, including Funningsfjørður and Skálafjørður.
The coastal regions spanning the north, northeast, and southeast are recognized globally as an Important Bird Area due to their essential role as breeding grounds for maritime birds. These cliffside habitats support notable populations of breeding pairs, including black guillemots, European storm petrels, and thousands of Manx shearwaters.
Eysturoy is easily reached by road via the Streymin Bridge, which crosses the sound to Streymoy. Further access was expanded in December 2020 with the launch of the sub-sea Eysturoyartunnilin, providing a direct underground highway connecting Runavík and Strendur with the capital, Tórshavn. On the eastern side, the town of Leirvík serves as a primary transit link to the northeastern islands, offering direct connections toward Klaksvík on Borðoy.
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