Time Zone |
Europe/Guernsey |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+0 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+1 |
Time Zone |
Atlantic/Faroe |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+0 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
The islands of Svalbard and Jan Mayenhem are not independent countries, but are Arctic archipelagic administrations under Norwegian jurisdiction. Located between latitudes 74° and 81° N, Svalbard, with its capital city of Longyearbyen, has a unique international treaty status - the 1920 Treaty of Svalbard grants equal commercial rights to the citizens of the signatory countries, but Norway maintains sovereignty. With 60% of the archipelago covered by glaciers, the archipelago is a major global Arctic research center, with a Chinese Yellow River Station. The population is about 2,700, and polar bears outnumber the residents, who are required to carry weapons for protection.
Jan Mayen is a volcanic island between the Norwegian mainland and Svalbard, with an area of 377 square kilometers and no permanent population. The island's volcano, Berenberg, is active, and the Norwegian military operates a weather station and navigation facility there. Together with Svalbard, the island forms Norway's strategic Arctic pivot, and has both scientific and military value.
Svalbard is known as the "Kingdom of Arctic Wildlife", with polar foxes, reindeer and walruses to be spotted during the summer polar days. The city of Longyearbyen prohibits death and procreation (critical cases must leave the island), and has a "Doomsday Seed Bank" to preserve the genes of global crops. Visitors can experience dog sledding and aurora observation, but must adhere to strict environmental regulations.
Hattarvík is a charming village on Fugloy, the easternmost island of the Faroe Islands, located in a remote corner of the North Atlantic. This small community of only about 20 inhabitants is known for its magnificent natural beauty and isolated, tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Hatavik is nestled in a steep green valley surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged mountains overlooking the vast North Atlantic Ocean. The vicinity of the village boasts an abundance of bird habitats, including puffins, guillemots and other seabirds. The climate is variable and often shrouded in mist, adding to the mystique of the area.
Hatavik's history dates back to the Viking Age and the village retains traditional Faroese architecture, including grass-roofed wooden houses. According to legend, in the 15th century the village was ruled by the local chieftain "Froki of Hatavik". Today, the inhabitants live mainly from fishing and agriculture, maintaining the old way of life.
The journey to Hatavik is an adventure in itself, requiring a ferry or helicopter to reach the island of Fuglafjordur and then a hike through the spectacular landscape. The village offers simple accommodation and is the perfect base for exploring the pristine wilderness of the Faroe Islands. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is milder and the days are longer.