Bøsdalafossur Waterfall - A large waterfall in the middle of a forest
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Bøsdalafossur Waterfall

4.2
·281 reviews·Sandavágur, Faroe Islands

Witness a unique waterfall plunging from a lake directly into the Atlantic Ocean, with breathtaking cliffside views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, better views

CrowdMedium
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Bøsdalafossur Waterfall - A large waterfall in the middle of a forest

Bøsdalafossur Waterfall

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, better views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness a unique waterfall plunging from a lake directly into the Atlantic Ocean, with breathtaking cliffside views.

4.2
(281 reviews)

"Spectacular views of basalt cliffs and imposing tall green mountains around Leitisvatn lake."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear waterproof boots

The trail can get very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:

Check the weather forecast

Fog and rain are common. A clear day offers the best views of the waterfall and surrounding cliffs. :cloud:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bøsdalafossur Waterfall

Bøsdalafossur Waterfall

Flowing from Sørvágsvatn into the Atlantic

Witness the dramatic sight of a lake's waterfall plunging directly into the ocean. A truly unique natural spectacle.

Reddit
Trælanípa Cliff

Trælanípa Cliff

Overlooking Sørvágsvatn and the ocean

Capture the iconic 'lake above the ocean' illusion from this stunning viewpoint. Perfect for photographers.

Reddit
Sørvágsvatn Lake Hike

Sørvágsvatn Lake Hike

Trailhead near Miðvágur

An accessible, mostly flat hike offering breathtaking coastal scenery and leading to the impressive waterfall.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Hike & Fee

A DKK 200 fee is required for the hike to Bøsdalafossur. The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially in wet weather, making it challenging for young children or those with mobility issues. Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. Reddit

Weather & Visibility

The Faroe Islands are known for unpredictable weather. Fog and rain can significantly impact visibility and the waterfall's appearance. Visiting on a clear day is highly recommended for the best views and photo opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, better views
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain
Why
Waterfall is more powerful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visited Sørvágsvatn in the Faroe Islands and proceeded to have my socks knocked off.

Wear waterproof boots

The trail can get very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Check the weather forecast

Fog and rain are common. A clear day offers the best views of the waterfall and surrounding cliffs. Reddit :cloud:

reddit.com

5 days on the Faroe Islands last week

reddit.com

The impossible looking Lake Sorvagsvatn, Faroe Islands [OC] [5506 x 3671]

Bring cash for fee

The DKK 200 entrance fee is required for the hike. Be prepared to pay upon arrival. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Allow ample time

The hike can take up to 2 hours round trip, depending on your pace and stops for photos. Reddit :stopwatch:

reddit.com

Hike to Mulafossur?

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear waterproof boots

The trail can get very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Check the weather forecast

Fog and rain are common. A clear day offers the best views of the waterfall and surrounding cliffs. Reddit :cloud:

Bring cash for fee

The DKK 200 entrance fee is required for the hike. Be prepared to pay upon arrival. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Allow ample time

The hike can take up to 2 hours round trip, depending on your pace and stops for photos. Reddit :stopwatch:

Consider the season

Water flow can vary. Visiting after heavy rain ensures a more dramatic waterfall experience. Reddit :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(281 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the spectacular views of Bøsdalafossur Waterfall and the iconic 'lake above the ocean' from Trælanípa cliff, calling the scenery stunning and worth the effort. However, the DKK 200 entrance fee is frequently mentioned as high, especially on foggy or rainy days, and the trail's muddy and slippery conditions are noted as challenging.

"Visited in August during a rainy and foggy day. Let me tell you that the DKK 200 (GBP 23) per person fee for the hike to get drizzled on for 2h is not everyone’s idea of a good time. For me, the fee is completely NOT justified, there is a track for the first bit but nothing on the second part. It took us 1h45 to loop around and get back to the car park. They should have discounts on days it’s bad weather.

Now I’ve complained a lot but I still fully enjoyed it; and embraced that this is just the way things go in the Faroe Islands.

PS: I entered the following coordinates for the parking which got me there perfectly.
62°02'31.7"N 7°11'57.2"W"

Nico M

"Spectacular views of basalt cliffs and imposing tall green mountains around Leitisvatn lake. Pay to visit for the maintenance of the trail which is fair and the original trail head was closed due to bird disturbance, head to Traelanipa trail head. The rain held off, waterfall is not much unless there is a lot of water in the lake but the scenery here is stunning. A 2hr round trip"

Jennifer Coughlan

"It is up to 1 hour hike from trailhead to the waterfall. For some sections, there was virtually no trail due to it being very muddy and difficult to navigate. It is not an option for young children and any mobility issues. When at the waterfall, it is difficult to traverse due to it being rocky and in wet weather it is very slippery. Waterfall it not easy to view. Whilst I enjoyed the challenge, you need to consider if it is worth it based on the 200DKR entrance fee"

Dean Fisher

What People Like

Spectacular waterfall into ocean
Iconic 'lake above ocean' view
Dramatic coastal scenery

What People Dislike

High entrance fee
Muddy/slippery trail
Challenging for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Bøsdalafossur is by hiking from the trailhead near Miðvágur. You can drive to the parking area. If you don't have a car, the 350 bus from Sørvágur stops nearby, but check the infrequent schedule. Reddit

Yes, there is a designated parking area. Travelers have shared coordinates like 62°02'31.7"N 7°11'57.2"W to find it accurately. Reddit

Yes, you can take the 350 bus from Sørvágur. However, the bus schedule is infrequent, so plan your timings carefully. Some visitors consider hiking from a bus stop before the tunnel. Reddit

The Trælanípa viewpoint is accessed via the same trail as Bøsdalafossur, starting from the designated trailhead. It's a short walk from the waterfall itself. Reddit

The primary and recommended route is the marked trail from the trailhead. Some older information might mention a different trailhead, but it's often closed due to bird disturbance. Stick to the official trail. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a DKK 200 per person entrance fee for the hike to Bøsdalafossur and Trælanípa. This fee contributes to trail maintenance. Reddit

The fee is for the maintenance of the trail and to help preserve the natural beauty of the area. It's considered fair by many for the upkeep of such a significant natural attraction. Reddit

Some visitors have suggested discounts for bad weather, but currently, there are no official discounts mentioned. The fee is generally applied regardless of conditions. Reddit

Information on online payment is not widely available. It's best to be prepared with cash (DKK) to pay at the trailhead. Reddit

The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted, but it's advisable to complete the hike before dusk. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike is about 1 hour each way from the trailhead. The path is generally flat for the first part, but can become muddy, rocky, and difficult to navigate in sections, especially when wet. Reddit

The hike is not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues due to the muddy, rocky, and slippery terrain. Sturdy footwear and caution are advised. Reddit

While parts are flat, other sections are rocky and can be very slippery when wet. Navigating can be challenging, and there's virtually no trail in some parts. Reddit

Viewing the waterfall can be difficult as it's rocky and slippery. The waterfall itself might not seem 'great' unless there's a lot of water in the lake. Reddit

The Trælanípa cliff offers spectacular views for photos, especially the 'lake above the ocean' illusion. The area around the waterfall also provides dramatic coastal scenery. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the dramatic cliffs and ocean views are impressive throughout the day, weather permitting. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and the 'lake above the ocean' effect. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance sky colors. Reddit

Stand at the Trælanípa cliff and frame your shot carefully to emphasize the elevation difference between Sørvágsvatn lake and the Atlantic Ocean below. Reddit

Drone photography regulations in the Faroe Islands can be strict. Always check current local drone laws and respect any no-fly zones, especially around bird nesting areas. Reddit

Beyond the waterfall and Trælanípa, look for the basalt columns along the coast and the dramatic green mountains surrounding the lake. The changing weather can also create moody, atmospheric shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to Bøsdalafossur is generally not recommended for very young children due to the muddy, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain. If you do bring children, ensure they are older, capable hikers with appropriate footwear, and keep a very close eye on them, especially near the cliff edges. The DKK 200 fee per person also adds up for families. Consider if the challenging hike is worth the experience for your little ones. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The DKK 200 entrance fee per person is a significant cost. While many find it justified for trail maintenance, budget travelers should factor this into their daily expenses. If you're traveling without a car, relying on the infrequent 350 bus adds another layer of planning and potential cost. Reddit Consider visiting on a day with better weather to maximize the value of the fee. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This is a prime location for landscape photographers. The 'lake above the ocean' illusion from Trælanípa is a must-capture. Bring your wide-angle lens and be prepared for dramatic, ever-changing light. The waterfall itself is best photographed when the lake has a good water level. Reddit Remember to protect your gear from the elements and use a tripod for stability on the uneven terrain. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hike to Bøsdalafossur: What to Expect

The hike to Bøsdalafossur Waterfall is a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be prepared. The trail begins near Miðvágur and is generally flat for the initial part, making it seem accessible. However, as you progress, the path can become significantly more challenging. Expect muddy sections, especially after rainfall, and rocky terrain that can be difficult to navigate. Some parts of the trail may have virtually no clear path, requiring careful footing. Reddit

Due to the terrain, this hike is not recommended for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must to handle the slippery and uneven ground. The total round trip can take around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend admiring the views. Remember to factor in the DKK 200 entrance fee, which is used for trail maintenance. Reddit

While the waterfall itself might not be the most voluminous, the dramatic setting of it plunging from the lake into the vast Atlantic Ocean is truly unique. The nearby Trælanípa cliff offers an iconic perspective, often referred to as the 'lake above the ocean,' which is a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike. Reddit

Understanding the Bøsdalafossur Entrance Fee

A DKK 200 entrance fee per person is required to access the hike leading to Bøsdalafossur Waterfall and the Trælanípa viewpoint. This fee is a common practice in the Faroe Islands for accessing popular natural attractions and is intended to fund the upkeep and maintenance of the trails. Many visitors find the fee justified given the stunning scenery and the effort required to maintain the paths. Reddit

It's important to be prepared to pay this fee upon arrival at the trailhead. While some visitors have expressed a desire for discounts during inclement weather, there are currently no official provisions for such reductions. The fee is generally applied regardless of the weather conditions on the day of your visit. Ensure you have cash (DKK) readily available, as card payment facilities may not always be available or convenient. Reddit

Capturing the Magic: Photography at Bøsdalafossur

Bøsdalafossur Waterfall and its surroundings offer incredible photographic opportunities. The most iconic shot is the 'lake above the ocean' illusion, best captured from the Trælanípa cliff. By carefully framing your shot, you can create a stunning visual of Sørvágsvatn lake appearing to hover dramatically over the Atlantic. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the vastness of the landscape. Reddit

Beyond the famous viewpoint, the waterfall itself, especially when the lake is full, provides a dramatic subject. The rugged coastline, basalt cliffs, and the powerful ocean waves crashing below add to the photographic appeal. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and sea, and to manage reflections on the water. The weather in the Faroe Islands is constantly changing, so embrace the moody skies and dramatic light for unique and atmospheric shots. Reddit

When visiting, remember that the terrain can be slippery and uneven. Take your time, use a tripod for stability, and protect your gear from the elements. While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always be aware of and adhere to local drone regulations to ensure responsible and legal operation. Reddit

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