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IN BRIEF
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Every spring, the Faroe Islands, a fascinating archipelago located between Iceland and Norway, temporarily close access to some of their most emblematic natural sites. This measure, far from being trivial, reflects a deep commitment to protecting an exceptional and fragile territory in the face of increasing tourism. The seasonal closures allow for trail maintenance, biodiversity preservation, and encouragement of sustainable tourism, while involving volunteers from around the world. The success of this initiative, as well as the enthusiasm it generates, demonstrates the need to reinvent the relationship between travelers and preserved places.
An archipelago with preserved landscapes, threatened by tourist influx
Lost in the vastness of the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands stand out for their wild panoramas: steep cliffs plunging into the ocean, mist-covered mountains, and traditional villages with turf roofs. This autonomous province of Denmark, home to only 53,000 inhabitants, actually hosts more than 70,000 sheep. In 2023, over 130,000 visitors walked its trails, raising the question of the balance between discovery and respect for the environment.
As in other pressured destinations, like certain areas deemed risky or large cities during major events, the Faroese government has made the courageous choice to prevent rather than cure. Thus, each year, some of the most beautiful sites of the archipelago temporarily close to all forms of organized tourism.
Concrete actions for the preservation of unique natural sites
The temporary closure of the Faroe Islands to tourism is not a simple ban. For a few days, choosing the beginning of May, only 80 volunteers selected from around the world can tread these lands, not as tourists, but as protectors of Faroese heritage.
Their mission: to maintain hiking trails, make certain paths accessible to people with reduced mobility, install information panels, and carry out minor repairs in the villages. These efforts help maintain remarkable hospitality quality while preserving nature and avoiding saturation of popular sites.
Such a system underscores the importance of rational management of tourist attendance, similar to initiatives observed during major events in other capitals or spa towns at the end of the season.
Promoting sustainable tourism and civic engagement
Since 2019, more than 23,000 people have wished to engage in this unique experience, proving the enthusiasm for a form of responsible travel. Selected volunteers must pay for their plane ticket but benefit from free accommodation and meals. A significant detail: they leave with a wool hat, crafted by a local artisan, symbolizing a stay focused on conviviality and a return to essentials.
This global enthusiasm shows that many travelers wish not only to discover exceptional sites but also to contribute positively to their preservation, as opposed to sometimes destructive mass tourism. This example fits perfectly into an international dynamic where respect for territories takes precedence, as also suggested by the choice of suitable equipment for a controlled trip or the management of attendance at major tourist hubs.
The impacts and prospects for the future
During the closure, the archipelago gets a makeover. Trails are restored, nature regenerates, and tourist infrastructure is adjusted to welcome newcomers under the best conditions. This annual pause not only strengthens the bond between residents and their environment but also preserves the intact appeal of these lands, ensuring their accessibility for future generations. For those dreaming of participating in this unique project, the call for applications for the 2026 edition will be launched in January on the official Visit Faroe Islands website.
