Tourism puts protected Mølheyggjarnir under pressure

Mølheyggjarnir, a protected natural feature on Sandoy, are already badly damaged as visitor numbers rise, the National Museum has told Kringvarp Føroya.

At peak times, about 30 cars are parked at the area, according to Michael A.C. Johannesen, head of Visit Sandoy. Visitors then walk up to Mølheyggjarnir, trampling the land.

Johanna Alberg, a biologist at the National Museum, said this was undesirable if the distinctive natural feature was to be preserved.

The museum recommends better management of traffic, including installing signs and creating designated walking routes.

The Environment Agency is responsible for the area. Its head, Sigga Jacobsen, said the law prevents such measures.

If nothing is done, Mølheyggjarnir could deteriorate further and eventually disappear.