Finally, a hiking plan for tourists

The right of public access to the countryside has long been a contentious issue in the Faroes.

This issue has become increasingly charged as the number of tourists continues to rise.

Many solutions have been put forward, but now, finally, a law proposal has been presented as a potential compromise between conservation and accessibility.

Trade minister Høgni Hoydal, who administers tourism, yesterday presented his proposal consisting of four main themes.

 >> SEE ALSO Survey supports freedom to roam in nature

1. All tourists to pay DKK 150

All tourists, including cruise ship passengers who disembark, will be charged a nature access contribution at a flat rate of DKK 150.

   - This is expected to bring in about DKK 20 million per year – 50 percent of which will go to local councils, 25 percent to villages and 25 percent to landowners. Digital counters will show where tourists go.

   - Tourists will be informed of their rights and duties.

2. Freedom with responsibility, duties and local democracy

   - Tourists will have the freedom to explore trails, adhering to marked routes and closures.

   - Local councils will make tourism plans in consultation with locals. These plans will include details of where and when tourists are allowed to hike, how many can hike in each location and where a tourist guide is required. All such plans are subject to government approval.

   - Local councils are responsible for maintaining hiking trails, providing adequate parking, installing toilets and signs and ensure overall infrastructure upkeep.

   - All toll gates will be banned.

 >> SEE ALSO Toll gates “a nuisance to locals and tourists alike”

3. Commercial tourism

Tour operators offering paid excursions on private land must obtain approval from landowners.

4 Duties to comply with regulations

The law will include details on how tourists must consult official channels, signage or guided tours to be informed of local nature restrictions.

This article is a brief summary of a TV news feature, available here.

English version by prosa.fo.

More Faroese News in English.