Nólsoy at a Glance
About Nólsoy
Nólsoy is a small inhabited island just off the east coast of Streymoy in the Faroe Islands, with a single principal village of the same name. It is known locally for its birdlife and small‑community character.
The island’s cliffs and coastal areas support seabird colonies and attract nature-minded visitors and photographers. A regular ferry connection links the island with Tórshavn, making day visits and short stays common.
Nólsoy has been continuously inhabited and retains traditional Faroese settlement patterns and landscape use. Its economy and culture reflect small-island life within the Faroes archipelago.
Geographically the island sits immediately east of Streymoy, opposite the capital Tórshavn, and forms part of the central cluster of islands in the Faroe archipelago.
- Access: Accessible by a short ferry from Tórshavn and visible across the inlet from the capital.
- Wildlife: Important breeding grounds for seabirds, noted for colonies that attract birdwatchers.
Best Time to Visit Nólsoy
Summer months provide the easiest access and the best weather for walking and wildlife; ferry timetables are most frequent then.
Weather & Climate near Nólsoy
Continental climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 12°C. Heavy rainfall (2709 mm/year), wettest in November.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 3° - 6° | -1° | 298 mm | overcast | 82% | 9.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.1h |
| February | Poor | 3° - 6° | -1° | 240 mm | overcast | 82% | 9.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 8.7h |
| March | Poor | 3° - 6° | -1° | 272 mm | overcast | 82% | 8.8 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Poor | 3° - 6° | 5° | 187 mm | overcast | 83% | 7.8 m/s | 0.5 low | 14.5h |
| May | Poor | 6° - 8° | 3° | 144 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.6 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 17.2h |
| June | Poor | 8° - 10° | 5° | 117 mm | overcast | 87% | 6.3 m/s | 1.1 high | 18.9h |
| July | Poor | 9° - 11° | 10° | 120 mm | overcast | 90% | 6.0 m/s | 1.0 high | 18.1h |
| August | Poor | 10° - 12° | 11° | 155 mm | overcast | 89% | 6.0 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 15.6h |
| September | Poor | 8° - 11° | 6° | 255 mm | overcast | 88% | 7.4 m/s | 0.4 low | 12.7h |
| October | Poor | 6° - 9° | 4° | 301 mm | overcast | 85% | 8.5 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.8h |
| November | Poor | 4° - 7° | 1° | 318 mm | overcast | 84% | 8.7 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.9h |
| December | Poor | 3° - 7° | 0° | 302 mm | overcast | 83% | 9.1 m/s | 0.0 low | 5.1h |
How to Get to Nólsoy
Passenger ferries depart Tórshavn (Streymoy) for Nólsoy regularly; crossing time is short (around 15-25 minutes). Check the municipal ferry timetable for exact departure times.
Tips for Visiting Nólsoy
- Catch the ferry from Tórshavn - crossings are frequent and brief (about 15-25 minutes).
- Walk the island trails for puffin colonies and quiet coastal views; local guides can point out nesting seasons.
- Try the small café near the harbour for local fish dishes and watch for returning fishing boats.