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Fossá, Streymoy – the best known Faroe Island waterfall
In short
One of the best known Faroe Islands waterfalls is Fossá – a spectacular waterfall with two cascades – vertical plunges.
39.3%
GPS coordinates
Location, address
Height
Drops
Tallest single drop
Run
Width
Map of the site
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In detail
"Fossá" in Faroese means "river with waterfalls" – several streams on the islands have such name. In fact, islands are very rich with waterfalls – and many smaller streams have formed even taller waterfalls than Fossá – but Fossá is considered to be the largest one.
The stream of falls starts in the uplands. One of the tributaries comes from Víkarvatn lake.
In dry weather the width of the stream is some meters, but after heavy rain, this waterfall becomes truly spectacular.
Almost all tourist guidebooks mention that this waterfall (both cascades together) is 140 m tall. Wondermondo has doubts – according to the topographical maps the upper rim of the falls is approximately 140 – 150 m above the sea level, but the base is some 30 m above the sea level. Maybe the figure in tourist guides includes the steep run from the base of the falls to the Sundini sound – here the stream over the distance of 180 m descends by some 30 m, forming some smaller cascades.
References
- Flickr gallery of this waterfall, created by Jan Egil Kristiansen. Accessed on June 5, 2012
Linked articles
Wonders of Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are far from mainland Europe – but constitute an integral part of the European cultural realm. Islands are incredibly tidy, with top-notch infrastructure and… breathtaking, pristine natural beauty. Maybe no other country can offer such fabulous Nordic nature together with historical architecture – even Norway.
Waterfalls
Some of the most fascinating and awe-inspiring natural monuments are waterfalls or locations where a river abruptly changes its elevation.
Wonders of Europe
The heritage of Europe is diverse and endlessly interesting. Incomparably rich is the wealth of European historical architecture, but this part of the world has exciting natural heritage and archaeological heritage as well.
Recommended books
Faroe Islands
Still the only English-language guide to the Faroe Islands, covering everything from succulent fish suppers to remote hideaways, the Bradt guide is the definitive source of information for visitors wishing to discover the 18 islands of this North Atlantic archipelago.