Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/valleys/mosfellsdalur

Content updated: 2026-09-10

This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys/mosfellsdalur>). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article.

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# Mosfellsdalur: Gljúfrasteinn, Helgufoss and a stop before Þingvellir

Mosfellsdalur offers a literary stop and a river walk on the way toward Þingvellir. Gljúfrasteinn, the former home of Halldór Laxness, is a useful place to start.

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

## Plan the museum around the month

Gljúfrasteinn’s published hours, checked September 10, 2026, are 10:00–16:00 Tuesday–Sunday in March–May and September–October, 10:00–17:00 daily in June–August, and 10:00–16:00 Tuesday–Friday in November–February. A Monday in September therefore needs a different plan from a Monday in July. Check for holiday changes before travel.

## Walk from the house toward Helgufoss

The museum says its garden is open to the public and identifies a trail along Kaldakvísl to Helgufoss. Follow the museum’s linked trail map and allow walking time in addition to the house visit. This is a direct local option; Mount Esja is a separate hiking destination requiring its own approach.

## Keep the onward journey realistic

A museum booking, a river walk and the rest of the [Golden Circle](<https://www.iceland.org/golden-circle>) each take time. Choose whether Mosfellsdalur is your main outing or a shorter stop before Þingvellir. If traveling by bus, plan the final walk and return service through the museum’s transport links rather than assuming a bus to Mosfellsbær reaches the door.

## Sources and nearby guides

Sources checked September 10, 2026: [Planning your visit](<https://www.gljufrasteinn.is/en/about_gljufrasteinn/planning_your_visit>); [The garden and walks](<https://www.gljufrasteinn.is/en/about_gljufrasteinn/the_garden_and_walks/>).

[Compare Iceland’s valleys](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys>)

Planning help

## Questions about Mosfellsdalur: Gljúfrasteinn, Helgufoss and a stop before Þingvellir

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**Is Gljúfrasteinn open on Mondays?**

Its published schedule opens daily in June–August, but closes Mondays in March–May and September–October. November–February opening is Tuesday–Friday.

**Is there a walk from Gljúfrasteinn?**

Yes. The museum identifies a trail beside Kaldakvísl toward Helgufoss and provides a map on its garden-and-walks page.

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).