What can you expect at Álafoss?
- A 15-meter waterfall in a green valley
- The historic Álafoss wool factory right next to the falls
- A peaceful setting close to Reykjavik with few crowds
Álafoss Waterfall, Mosfellsbær
A 15-meter waterfall on the Varmá river near Mosfellsbær, right next to the Álafoss wool factory and its shop.
Region
West Iceland
Easy access near Reykjavik. Year-round. Wool shop next door.
A waterfall near Mosfellsbær, close to the Álafoss wool factory. The falls on the Varmá river sit in a green valley and historically powered a textile mill. The Álafoss wool brand still operates nearby, so you can pair the waterfall with a stop at the shop.
| Fact | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Nature + Icelandic wool | Combine a waterfall visit with a stop at the Álafoss wool store. |
| Access | Very easy | 15–20 min from Reykjavik. Short walk to the falls. |
| Pro tip | Visit the wool store | The Álafoss shop sells traditional Icelandic wool products. |
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The area near the river can be slippery in wet weather, so wear sturdy shoes and stay on marked paths.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
What is near Álafoss?
- Álafoss wool store (traditional Icelandic wool products)
- Mosfellsbær town (cafés, bakeries, swimming pool)
- Esja hiking trails (views over Reykjavik)
How do you get to Álafoss?
- Located near Mosfellsbær, about 15–20 minutes from Reykjavik
- Easy to reach by car via Route 1 or Route 36
- Free parking near the Álafoss wool store
- Short walk from the parking area to the waterfall
- Accessible by public bus from Reykjavik (Strætó)
When is the best time to visit Álafoss?
- Accessible year-round with easy road access
- Summer brings green surroundings and longer daylight
- Winter can bring ice formations on the falls
- The wool store is a useful indoor stop in bad weather
- An easy half-day trip from Reykjavik in any season
Read the industrial history beside the waterfall
The Álafoss store’s history dates the business to 1896 and identifies today’s shop as the original factory. The water behind it powered the mills. Historic machinery and photographs inside give the waterfall a different context from a scenic stop: this was a working source of energy.
If the shop is part of your plan, check its current hours separately from the outdoor visit. Use the Mosfellsbær location at Álafossvegur 23; a Reykjavík shop listing is not the waterfall’s address.
Planning help
Álafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Álafoss?
Álafoss is approximately 15 meters (49 feet) tall. It sits on the Varmá river in a green valley near Mosfellsbær.
What is the Álafoss wool factory?
Álafoss was established in 1896. The original factory now houses the wool shop, and the waterfall and Varmá river behind it powered the old mills. The shop displays historic knitting machinery and photographs, according to its own account.
How do I get to Álafoss?
Álafoss is located near Mosfellsbær, just 15–20 minutes drive from Reykjavik. It is easily accessible by car with a short walk to the waterfall. The Álafoss wool store is right next to the falls.
Is Álafoss free to visit?
Yes, Álafoss waterfall is completely free to visit. There is no entrance fee. You can combine it with a visit to the adjacent Álafoss wool store for shopping.
When is the best time to visit Álafoss?
Álafoss is accessible year-round. Summer brings green surroundings, while winter can bring ice formations. The wool store nearby is a useful indoor stop in bad weather.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.