The incredible lake at the edge of a huge cliff overlooking the ocean
One of the most stunning lakes in the world is located in northern Europe, in a landscape as wild as it is unforgettable.
One of Europe’s most remote and least-known corners is the Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago that belongs to the Kingdom of Denmark. This cluster of 18 volcanic islands - 17 of which are inhabited - sits in the vast North Atlantic, roughly halfway between Iceland and Norway, and just 250 kilometers north of Scotland. Among its many curiosities, what strikes visitors most is the wild, untouched nature of the Faroes. It’s a haven for seabird enthusiasts and anyone drawn to pristine landscapes. Time seems to stand still here, offering a glimpse into a bygone era - where dramatic cliffs, lush green meadows, and the ever-present sea create a scene as timeless as it is breathtaking.
Sørvágsvatn: a breathtaking illusion
One of the most striking natural features is a lake known as Sørvágsvatn or Leitisvatn - the largest in the Faroe Islands - located on the island of Vágar. What makes this lake so extraordinary is its surreal position: it appears to hover above the ocean. Despite its proximity to the sea, the lake sits several meters higher, creating a visual illusion that has captivated travelers and photographers alike. The lake doesn’t have major outlets to the ocean - if it did, it would drain away - but it does feed into waterfalls like Bøsdalafossur, which plunge directly into the Atlantic, offering scenes of stunning natural beauty.
Sørvágsvatn has an average depth of 2.5 meters and reaches a maximum depth of 59 meters. It sits 32 meters above sea level and stretches roughly six kilometers in length and 800 meters in width. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities here, including boating, hiking, camping, and fishing. The lake is located within the municipalities of Sørvágur and Vágar - home to the Faroe Islands’ only airport - making it a convenient and unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure in one of Europe’s last wild frontiers.
From certain vantage points, the coastline and cliffs create a powerful optical illusion, making the lake appear to float above the ocean. In reality, the water level is just 30 to 32 meters above sea level. According to official data, the lake covers an area of approximately 3.4 square kilometers and reaches a maximum depth of 59 meters. Its outlet, the Bøsdalafossur waterfall, drops about 30 meters straight into the Atlantic, forming one of the Faroes’ most iconic vistas. The hike to the viewpoint takes between 45 minutes and an hour and is among the most popular routes for capturing this remarkable illusion.
A wild land that surprises with its raw beauty and minimal human impact - especially in a Europe increasingly shaped by mass tourism. The Faroe Islands are a destination of fire and ice, perfect for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. With rugged cliffs and a harsh climate that has shaped life here for centuries, the Faroes leave no traveler untouched. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, and every moment feels like stepping into another world.
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