Flateyri combines a long history of trade with a variety of cultural attractions and activities on the water. Visitors choosing the town for a trip can focus on local history, collections, swimming or activities on the fjord. The story stretches from its beginnings as a trading post in 1792 to kayaking opportunities and a sandcastle competition on the opposite shore.
Trade History and Old Bookshop
Flateyri has been a trading post since 1792. In the 19th century, the town was home to a fleet of decked ships and served as a base for shark and whale hunting. The history of the trading post is thus closely connected with seafaring and hunting.
The Old Bookstore in Flateyri is considered Iceland’s oldest original shop and has been a family business for four generations since 1914. The old bookshop has been converted into a museum where visitors can learn about Flateyri’s history and explore the merchant’s old house. Check current opening hours before visiting the museum.
Museums with Different Themes
The Nonsense Museum in Flateyri offers collectors a platform to display their collections to the public. The International Doll Museum houses around 200 dolls wearing traditional costumes from around the world. The themes are clearly distinct: one focuses on the owners’ varied collections, while the other showcases a collection of dolls in traditional dress from different countries. You can choose which cultural focus suits you best, depending on whether you are more interested in a variety of collections or traditional costumes. If you are planning a visit, check the current opening hours here as well.
Activities on the Water and Views
The fjord near Flateyri offers good opportunities for kayaking. Flateyri has also become a very popular destination for foreign sea anglers. Another local option is next to the campsite: there you’ll find a lagoon and Einar’s Pier, which is suitable for operating remote-controlled boats. If you plan to visit the lagoon, check its condition in advance.
The campsite in Flateyri is located beside an avalanche protection embankment. There is a viewing platform on the embankment with excellent views over Önundarfjörður. The platform offers a unique vantage point over the fjord, while kayaking and sea angling are activities on the water.
Opposite Flateyri, on the other side of the fjord, there is a white sandy beach. A sandcastle competition is held there every year, with hundreds of children and adults taking part. If you would like to include the competition in your travel plans, check the date of your visit in advance.
Swimming in Flateyri
Flateyri Swimming Pool has a 16-metre pool, a hot tub and an indoor sauna. The outdoor area also has heated paddling pools. This makes it quite different from kayaking or sea angling: the focus here is on the pool, sauna and outdoor pools. Check the current operating details before your visit.
Discover more destinations: BolungarvĂk, SúðavĂk, Garpsdalur, SuĂ°ureyri, ReykhĂłlar, KirkjubĂłl, Hagi, Keflavik
For the broader travel overview: Westfjords.
