The tiny village
31.01.2024
Lestrar 51
Photo: María H. Tryggvadóttir
Akureyri is based by the bottom of the fjord Eyjafjörður, which is one of the longest fjords in Iceland or about 60 km and 25 km where it is widest. Along the fjord there are several charming towns and villages, which are all worth a visit. One of them is the tiny village Hjalteyri.
Until the early 20th century, this was one of the main hubs of the herring fishing industry, which began around 1890. When the herring disappeared around 1967 the old herring factory was closed and what once used to be vibrant and the biggest community by the fjord turned into a tiny quiet village.
Until the early 20th century, this was one of the main hubs of the herring fishing industry, which began around 1890. When the herring disappeared around 1967 the old herring factory was closed and what once used to be vibrant and the biggest community by the fjord turned into a tiny quiet village.
Today the old herring factory host as a venue for art exhibitions. different workshops, smaller industries, and a diving centre. Hjalteyri boasts some of the most interesting diver areas in the World, as the famous hydrothermal chimneys are right offshore.
Hjalteyri is a popular spot for a peaceful tour, stroll the beach, hike around the Hjalteyri pond, enjoy the old colourful houses or visit a art exhibition as well as some of the activities on offer.
The village is only in about 20 km distance from Akureyri which makes Hjalteyri a convenient place for excursions from Akureyri.