The Faroe Islands or simply Faroes (Faroese: Føroyar, meaning " Sheep Islands ") are a group of islands in the north Atlantic Ocean between Scotland and Iceland . They have been an autonomous region of the kingdom of Denmark since 1948 and have over the years taken control over and responsibility of most matters except defence and foreign affairs.

The islands (reached by air from Denmark and Iceland or by ferry from Iceland , Denmark , Norway or the Shetlands in Scotland ) consist of rugged green mountains fjords and countless waterfalls. Other attractions include medieval churches, fishing villages, old farmhouses and sheep. We love it there: It's not in the least touristy if you stay away from the shoppingstreets in Torshavn . The people are friendly (you can find yourself engaged in long talks with the local fishermen), it's fairly modern and it has a unique atmosphere. The light which constantly changes is extraordinary. The islands are known for their linguistic diversity as every little "bygd" (settlement) has a very distinctive dialect. We especially enjoyed the towns of Gjogv, Kirkjubo, Torshavn (the capital city), Tjornevik (wide windswept beach) and Saksun (set on the hillside above a tidal lake). Be prepared for sudden changes in its relatively mild climate.