Flateyri: Trading History and Water Experiences

Flateyri combines a long trading history with unusual collections and a range of activities related to water and the fjord. If you are considering the town as a travel destination, you can explore its cultural history, swimming pool, fjord activities and an annual competition as different highlights. When choosing a vacation rental, it is helpful to consider which of these aspects you want to shape your stay.

Trade, History and Collections

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 whaling expeditions. This gives its trading history a tangible maritime dimension: ships and fishing activities are part of it, as is its long timeline. The Old Bookstore is considered Iceland’s oldest original store and has been a family business for four generations since 1914. The dates mark different milestones: 1792 represents Flateyri’s history as a trading post, while 1914 marks the family history of the store.

The collections also offer their own highlights. A municipal visitor brochure from 2016 presents the Nonsense Museum as a forum where collectors publicly display their collections. It lists around 200 dolls in traditional costumes from around the world at the International Doll Museum. These bring together two distinct themes: the public display of collections and a doll collection featuring traditional costumes from many countries.

Swimming Pool, Fjord and Views

Flateyri’s swimming pool has a 16-meter pool, a hot tub and an indoor sauna; the outdoor area also includes heated paddling pools. This is a separate option for planning your day, alongside activities on the fjord. If you plan to visit the pool, check the current operating details in advance.

The fjord near Flateyri offers good kayaking opportunities; the town has also become a very popular destination for foreign sea anglers. This gives you two distinct water activities to consider when planning your trip: kayaking on the fjord and sea fishing in Flateyri.

Next to the campsite in Flateyri is a lagoon with Einarsbryggja, which is suitable for operating remote-controlled boats. This is another, different way to enjoy the water. The campsite itself is located by an avalanche-protection embankment. An observation platform on the embankment offers excellent views over Önundarfjörður. Here, the focus is not on an activity on the water, but on the views across the fjord. If you plan to visit the platform, check access conditions in advance.

Across the fjord from Flateyri is a white sand beach. A sandcastle competition is held there every year, with hundreds of children and adults taking part. For families hoping to make the competition the reason for their trip, the date is an important planning consideration. Check the event dates before booking if you want to plan your trip around it.

Discover more destinations: Patreksfjördur, Ísafjörður, Reykhólar, Staður, Árnes, Súðavík, Hagi, Hnífsdalur.

For the broader travel overview: Westfjords.