Mosfellsbaer

Mosfellsbaer, a quiet town just north of Reykjavik, offers a taste of the Icelandic countryside with the capital at your doorstep. With around 10,000 residents, it has a small-town feel but plenty to do. Surrounded by nature, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to explore Iceland beyond the typical tourist spots.

One of the highlights of Mosfellsbaer is its literary history. Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s Nobel Prize-winning author, lived in a nearby house called Gljúfrasteinn. Today, his home is a museum where you can learn about his life and work while walking through the landscapes that inspired his writing. This connection to Icelandic culture makes Mosfellsbær a must-see for book lovers.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Mosfellsbaer is a paradise. The town is surrounded by mountains, the most famous being Mount Esja. Esja is a hiker’s heaven, offering trails for all difficulty levels, from easy paths for beginners to challenging routes for experienced hikers. On a clear day, the summit provides breathtaking views over Reykjavik and the surrounding area.

The town is also close to Leirvogsvatn Lake and Álafoss waterfall, both perfect for peaceful walks or picnics. Álafoss has a rich history, as it used to house a wool factory, and now there’s a small shop selling Icelandic wool products, keeping local traditions alive.

Another activity in Mosfellsbaer is horseback riding at Laxnes Horse Farm. Icelandic horses, small and friendly, are iconic, and riding one through the countryside offers a true sense of the Icelandic landscape. The farm offers tours through fields, rivers, and hills—a great way to experience the area.

Summer is the best time to visit Mosfellsbaer, as the long days give you more time to be outdoors. However, winter has its own magic. With fewer people around, the town becomes a great spot for Northern Lights viewing. The lack of city lights makes it one of the best places near Reykjavik to see the aurora.