Beyond their stark beauty, the Faroe Islands demonstrate the erosive force of flowing water. Since rifting from Greenland, 55 million years ago, this volcanic terrane has been molded by glacial ice, torrential rain, pounding waves, strong currents and numerous streams. Due to their northern latitude, freeze-thaw cycles have also played a significant role in sculpting the islands.
Of course, most of this erosive activity persists today and is readily evident to the visitor. Landslide scars are observed, frequent rain drenches the highlands, currents alter the course of boat transportation and powerful waves lash the rocky headlands. Sheep and hares, both introduced by humans, are the only mammals that inhabit the steep, grass-covered slopes and countless waterfalls adorn the ridges.
This is a country of rock and water. Though man has managed to settle along its coasts and fjords, water will eventually erode these scenic islands into the sea.
