About us
Set in one of Tórshavn’s historic houses, Nólsoyarstova is an independent luxury boutique hotel with only three private apartments. The house dates back to the 18th century and has been carefully restored to offer a stay defined by privacy, atmosphere, and contemporary comfort.
More than a place to stay, Nólsoyarstova is a house with depth, character, and a strong sense of continuity. Its story is rooted not only in Faroese history, but also in the care taken to preserve and renew it for the future.
Set in one of Tórshavn’s historic houses, Nólsoyarstova is an independent luxury boutique hotel with only three private apartments. The house dates back to the 18th century and has been carefully restored to offer a stay defined by privacy, atmosphere, and contemporary comfort.
More than a place to stay, Nólsoyarstova is a house with depth, character, and a strong sense of continuity. Its story is rooted not only in Faroese history, but also in the care taken to preserve and renew it for the future.
History of the house
Nólsoyarstova holds a special place in the history of Tórshavn and the Faroe Islands. Over the centuries, it has stood as one of the capital’s distinctive historic houses and has been closely connected to important moments and figures in Faroese life.
Among its most notable associations is the story of Tjaldurs Apotek, the first Faroese pharmacy, which forms part of the building’s wider historical significance. Its striking presence in the old town has also left a lasting impression on Faroese cultural life, and William Heinesen once described Nólsoyarstova as resembling a Venetian palace.
A house saved and restored
Yet for many years, the house stood empty and in visible decline.
When Nólsoyarstova was acquired in 2019, it was with a clear ambition: to restore the house in a way that honoured what was already there and preserved as much of its original character as possible.
Over the following years, the house underwent an extensive restoration shaped by craftsmanship, patience, and deep respect for its materials, proportions, and architectural spirit. Original elements were preserved wherever possible, while new work was carried out in the same spirit as the old.
The rooftop terrace and the building’s crowning architectural features were also carefully restored, allowing the house to regain its full presence.
The restoration was guided not only by technical skill, but by a belief that the house should continue to live as a coherent whole. Rather than being stripped back or reshaped beyond recognition, Nólsoyarstova was renewed with the intention of carrying its identity forward.
The house today
Today, Nólsoyarstova lives on as three private apartments, each occupying an entire floor. This approach allowed the structure, flow, and atmosphere of the house to be preserved far more faithfully than a conventional hotel or office conversion would have allowed.
By choosing one apartment per floor, much of the house’s original layout and sense of proportion could remain intact. The result is a more spacious, private, and architecturally respectful way of staying - one that lets guests experience the house with both comfort and a strong sense of its history.
The restoration also transformed the ground floor, once a small and cold basement, into a much larger and more usable space, giving new life to a part of the house that had long been overlooked.
The Area
Old Tórshavn is a charming and historic district, where centuries-old houses line the narrow streets of Tinganes and Úti á Reyni. This area is home to some of the government buildings, including the Prime Minister’s Office.
Enjoy leisurely walks through these picturesque streets, surrounded by traditional Faroese architecture and local landmarks.
Nearby, you’ll find cozy cafes, unique shops, and some of the city's finest restaurants. The Michelin-recognised restaurants Ræst and Roks are our closest neighbours. The harbors, with their rich maritime history, add to the area's appeal, making it a must-visit for those exploring Tórshavn.
Sustainability
At Nólsoyarstova, sustainability is approached through care, longevity, and respect for place. Our efforts focus on restoring and maintaining a historic building, working with local artisans and suppliers, and making conscious operational choices such as waste sorting and thoughtful housekeeping routines.
By prioritising quality materials, craftsmanship, and durability over disposability, we aim to reduce unnecessary waste while preserving comfort and atmosphere. These choices support the local community and allow us to offer a calm, considered stay where heritage, quality, and responsibility are naturally intertwined.