Florø, settlement in Kinn Municipality, Norway
Florø is a small town in Western Norway situated on two islands, Florelandet and part of Brandsøya, making it the westernmost location on the Norwegian mainland. The town covers less than 7 square kilometers with around 9,000 residents and is shaped by harbors, boats, and the constant movement of ships, with cafes, shops, and small restaurants lining the streets.
The town was founded in 1860 by royal order on flat land and served as its own municipality from 1861 to 1964 before becoming part of the larger Kinn Municipality. Herring fishing brought wealth and shaped the town's rapid growth, with this heritage still visible today in its buildings and community memory.
Florø takes its name from old words meaning "flat ground" or "flood," reflecting the islands' flat geography. This maritime identity shapes how the town looks today: the coat of arms displays three herrings, fishing boats fill the harbor, and locals spend their days walking by the water and watching the rhythm of boats coming and going.
A small airport connects the town to larger Norwegian cities, making arrival straightforward. The town is compact and walkable, with regular boats and ferries available to visit the surrounding islands such as Reksta and Kinn.
The town holds the rare distinction of being the westernmost location on the mainland of the Nordic countries, a fact often overlooked by visitors. This geographical position gives the place a unique standing among Norwegian coastal settlements.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
