Cutting Peat in Svínoy - Old Traditions

Cutting Peat in Svínoy - Old Traditions

Cultural visit in Svínoy - experience the historical Svínoy. The Island of Viking chief Svínoyar Bjarni.  An old saying is, that in beginning of time, Svínoy was a floating island, drifting to and fro in the mist. An old woman from Fugloy succeeded in mooring the island fast to the ground, and it has been there ever since.

Svínoy is first mentioned in Færeyinga Saga as the place where the Viking chief Bjarni of Svínoy, (Svínoyar-Bjarni) lived. Peat has since ancient times been the only fuel in the Faroese houshold. Peat cutting tools are the faroese spade (haki), and the peat cutter or tusker (torvskeri). Peat cutting was considered to be the mans work, but to spread it out to dry, was the womens and the childrens work. The amount of peat was measured in creels, and generally is said, that 180 creels equaled a year’s supply. Viking chief Bjarni of Svínoy has been sitting at the fireplace, fueled with peat, cut in his own Svínoy. The stone of Bjarni (Bjarnasteinur), is situated in the church, and it is believed that it is Bjarni´s tombstone.

When you arrive in Svínoy, you will be met by a local guide who will take you through your stay in Svínoy. The guide will lead you to the peat fields, and together you will cut peat, and see the whole process of peat-cutting. In the village you will be offered a normal (plain) faroese meal. Afterwards, feel free to take a walk around, and explore the church and the local community.

Place: Hvannasund, Norðoyggjar
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 10.00 - 16.00
Adult Euro 68 // Child (7-14 years) Euro 34
Children: 0 - 7 years old are free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Min. 5 / max. 25 persons
It is necessary to book in advance.