Hiking in the Faroe Islands

While I returned from my trip to Scandinavia a couple weeks ago, memories of our excursions and adventures in Denmark, Norway, the Faroe Islands and Iceland still bring me joy. I think travel serves two main purposes. The first is the exposure to another culture, another landscape and new experiences in those elements. This is a true form of education that broadens our minds by exposing us to history, geography and cultural practices (food, traditions, holidays) that are different from our own. The second is the creation of memories that will last a lifetime and comfort you in moments of reflection. I learned a great deal on my travels and made incredible memories as well.

One of the fondest moments was climbing Mount Klakkur in the Faroe Islands with my mother, who is 64. We set out early with our guide and were determined to make it to the top - more than half a kilometer above sea level over very rugged terrain. Along with the gorgeous scenery and the freshness of the salty air, what stands out in my mind is the love and admiration I felt for my mother for making the effort to climb to the top with me. Our shared determination and the moments we shared together on that mountain peak are irreplaceable. In writing this account for the Martha Moments blog I am reminded of Martha's excellent book Living the Good Long Life. In it, she suggests always having the courage to try something new and to move outside of your comfort zone as we age. My mother, despite having arthritis in her ankles, was determined to make it to the mountain's summit and to do something she had never done before. I think that's what qualifies this as a Martha Moment. Please enjoy my photographs!

The Faroe Islands is a self-governing archipelago, part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It comprises 18 rocky, volcanic islands between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean, connected by road tunnels, ferries, causeways and bridges. The islands’ mountains, valleys and grassy heathland, and steep coastal cliffs that harbor thousands of seabirds, are lures for nature lovers. Pictured above is the town of Klaksvik, where we stayed. It is the second largest town in the Faroe Islands.

As we started our climb, the clouds rolled in. The town viewed from high on the hillside was very beautiful. 

 On our way up, we paused for a selfie!

We passed several small sheep farms on the narrow road to the peak of Mount Klakkur. Many of the small huts and barns have grass-covered roofs. This acts as a natural form of insulation. 

The higher we climbed, the more we realized how important it was to stop now and then for some water and a brief rest. The hillside was very steep. Mom loved looking down at the town through the clouds.

After a rest, mom was soon on her way again.

This is mom with our guide, Peter. We were almost there!

Mom and Peter right at the summit - above the clouds! 

The view was extraordinary. You can see how small the houses look in the distance. We were literally in the clouds.

A fishing boat in the distance.

It was certainly a day to remember!