Just 15 minutes northeast of Reykjavík lies the town of Mosfellsbær, the seventh largest – and fastest growing – municipality in Iceland.
Things to do in Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is perfect for outdoor lovers, with well-marked coastal biking and walking paths that connect to trails in Reykjavík. Mosfellsbær’s beautiful nature is perfect for horseback riding, playing golf, and fishing for trout and char in the small lakes.
Besides offering natural beauty, the town has an emerging arts district, Álafosskvos. Former wool factory buildings have been converted into workshops, galleries, and sound studios. During weekends, out-of-towners flock to Mosfellsbær to shop at the Álafoss factory outlet with its artisan handiwork. In addition, they also enjoy perusing the organic farmers’ market selling greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables, flowers, and locally made gourmet products.
Former home of the author Halldór Laxness
The attraction that put Mosfellsbær most prominently on the map is the former home of Nobel Laureate, Halldór Kiljan Laxness (1902-1998). Today it serves as a museum. Known as “Gljúfrasteinn”, the museum is dedicated to the writer’s life. Laxness penned 62 books and won the Nobel Prize for his book, Independent People in 1955.
Mosfellsbær – “the green town”
Mosfellsbær enjoys geothermal activity, and quite a few greenhouses have been built here. It’s no surprise that the locals call it “the green town”. Since 1933, it has supplied the capital area with natural hot water for heating homes and swimming pools. In addition, the mountainous area around the town is ideal for walks and hikes, skiing and fishing for trout and char in the small lakes.
