Exploring Europe's Best-Kept Secret: The Faroe Islands

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets for nature-lovers. The collection of 18 volcanic islands is home to green valleys, memorizing fjords, beautiful waterfalls and cozy towns. With more sheep than people, it's the perfect destination to get away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Thanks to a well-maintained highway system, visitors are able to take an epic road trip that only rival's that of Iceland. Despite the incredibly rugged terrain, a modern infrastructure of sub-sea tunnels makes it easy to travel around all the islands. However, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for sheep crossings!

The island is home to many beautiful waterfalls, but none more famous than Mulafossur Waterfall on Vagar Island. The photogenic waterfall sits below a tiny town in a green valley. It's close to the airport and a must-see during a trip to the Faroe Islands.

Emerald-colored seaside cliffs tower along the coasts of the Faroe Islands. You can find thousands and thousands of puffin overhead, while in-between these seaside fjords. Take a boat tour or hike one of the many footpaths to experience the mountainous beauty.

Albeit not quite north enough for the land of the midnight sun, the Faroe Islands have extremely long summer days where you can view long and gorgeous sunsets. To watch a sunset on the Faroe Islands is like looking at a painting you won't soon forget.

These Hobbiton cottages weren't on set for the filming of the Lord of the Rings, but they look awfully similar to their New-Zealand counterparts. With turf-roofed homes built into mountainsides, the Faroe Islands have been a home for hobbit-like abodes since the 1600s.

The Faroe Islands are home to some of the most striking natural beauty in the world. Seaside fjords, beautiful waterfalls and green valleys are found everywhere on the island chain. Luckily, the locals know how mesmerizing the views are because they built many roadside stops for eager landscape-photographers.

Colorful turf-covered buildings welcome you into coastal towns, each with their own harbor and beautiful church. The turf-roofs are more functional than you think, as they help protect the locals from a rainy climate of about 300 days per year.

Sheep outnumber people by almost 2:1. If you are looking for a cozy wool sweater, or simply want to get away from the crowds, the Faroe Islands are the perfect destination. You can find the hardy animals everywhere, from sides of cliffs to downtown streets.

The famous restaurant of KOKS is the world's most remote Micheline starred restaurant, but the great cuisine doesn't stop there. A seaside location and fishing lifestyle has resulted in the Faroe Islands being a leading exporter for fish. Sit down in a local restaurant for some hearty fish soup or tasty salmon, and let your taste-buds rejoice.

Similar to Iceland, you don't need to go on a long adventure to find natural serenity. Simply drive ten minutes outside one of the many small towns to find nature and a calming retreat. Besides, who doesn't want to play a soccer match on this beautiful soccer field?

The locals are tough to survive in such a harsh climate, but nevertheless extremely welcoming. They are proud of their culture, food and drink and are eager to share in the festivities. Visit during one of the summer-festivals to truly experience Faroese culture.