Thingeyri combines an extraordinary workshop history with trails along the fjord and cycling routes around the town. There are different ways to explore it: you can learn about its historic industry, explore the nature trail, or take a look at one of the described routes by bike. Water levels also matter on the coastal path.
Workshop History and Craftsmanship
The Old Smithy in Thingeyri is Iceland’s oldest machine workshop still in operation. It has been preserved almost in its original condition and is now run as a living museum. During the war, the workshop made spare parts for foreign and Icelandic ships of all sizes and types. The town’s history is also reflected in the 1734 Packhouse, considered one of Iceland’s oldest buildings.
Another feature of the town’s working history is the outdoor mural Tankur: it links an oil tank with Thingeyri’s work tradition. Koltra is a gallery and craft house in the old Salthúsið. It offers crafts from the Westfjords and Dýrafjörður for sale; the selection may change. Koltra is also home to Vattasaumur, one of Iceland’s oldest wool-working techniques.
Coastal Path, Fjord, and Tides
The nature trail along the shore starts at Tankur and follows the fjord. Information boards explain the fjord’s nature and wildlife; entertaining puzzles also make the path interesting for families. The trail is impassable at high tide, so be sure to take the tides into account when planning your walk. At the end is a rest area where Thingeyri’s seals spend time. Avoid disturbing the animals; sightings are therefore not guaranteed.
Thingeyri lies by a striking mountain range in the Westfjords, often called the “Alps of the Westfjords.” Kaldbakur, at 998 m, is the highest mountain in the Westfjords. The coastal path focuses on fjord nature and wildlife, while the cycling routes highlight other aspects of the landscape.
Cycling Loops and Routes
The cycling loop around Sandafell, Thingeyri’s local mountain, is suitable for the whole family. It runs entirely on a road or path and has only gentle gradients. You can walk along the shore on one section of the Sandafell loop between Thingeyri and the stockfish processors’ drying racks. The routes described thus include both a family-friendly cycling loop and a coastal section to walk.
Another cycling tour starts in Thingeyri and first follows the old road over Hrafnseyrarheiði toward Hrafnseyri. Route conditions may vary; check them before setting out. The annual Westfjords running and cycling festival also includes a 55 km route near Thingeyri. This distance describes the festival route, not a stated travel time.
Things to Do in Town and Nearby
Thingeyri has a swimming pool. Outside, there is a campsite, a beach volleyball court, and a Viking area with barbecue facilities, benches, tables, and a large stage. If you plan to make use of these facilities, check their current status before your visit.
Near Thingeyri, there is a tourist information office at Im Koltra, providing information about leisure activities in the surrounding area. If needed, check in advance whether the information service is available. Workshop history, crafts, the coastal path, and cycling routes give the town a variety of character, without requiring a set sightseeing itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Tálknafjörður, Drangsnes, Hólmavík, Látur, Kirkjuból, Flateyri, Árnes, Garpsdalur.
For the main travel overview: Westfjords.
