World’s First Underwater Roundabout Opens Below the Atlantic Ocean
An exciting aquatic-themed underwater roundabout, the first of its kind globally, is set to operate beneath the Atlantic Ocean, linking two of the Faroe Islands. This unique structure, crafted from natural rock and adorned by Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson, is designed to resemble a jellyfish and is enhanced with striking blue and green lights.
The jellyfish roundabout is located at the end of the 11km-long Eysturoyartunnilin tunnel, which directly connects two of the most populous islands in the archipelago. Local authorities anticipate that this enhanced transportation link will significantly boost tourism once the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic have alleviated. Notably, the travel time between the capital Tórshavn and the towns of Runavík/Strendur will decrease dramatically from over an hour (64 minutes) to a mere 16 minutes. Similarly, the journey from Tórshavn to Klaksvík will be shortened from 68 minutes to just 36 minutes, according to the company behind the project. This innovative roundabout is also expected to attract numerous tourists, evident from the extensive social media sharing of the project photos.
Construction of this remarkable tunnel commenced in 2016 and is set to officially open on 19 December. Furthermore, another tunnel of comparable length is scheduled to open in 2023, marking a monumental achievement in the country’s infrastructure development. The deepest section of the tunnel reaches an impressive 187m below sea level. Motorists will be required to pay a toll of 75 Danish kroner (approximately US$12) for a one-way journey.
The Faroe Islands, with their stunningly remote and rugged landscapes, comprise an archipelago of 18 islands located midway between Norway and Iceland. This autonomous territory of Denmark was recognized by GoTravelDaily for its commitment to slow and sustainable tourism, being included on the Best in Travel list for 2021 for Community Immersion. Every April, the Faroe Islands close for maintenance, during which local residents host 100 voluntourists to help preserve hiking paths, traverse natural landscapes, and rebuild cairns.
Editor’s note: This article originally stated that the drive from Tórshavn to Klaksvík would be reduced to 16 minutes. The drive from Tórshavn to Runavík/Strendur will indeed be cut to 16 minutes.
