Álafoss Waterfall
About Álafoss Waterfall
Álafoss is a small waterfall on the Varmá river in Álafosskvos, the old mill hollow in Mosfellsbær, about 25 minutes' drive northeast of downtown Reykjavík. The river splits around a rock ledge and drops in two short white falls, right beside the buildings of the wool factory that took its name from the waterfall.
Wool processing at Álafoss started in 1896, when the energy of the falls was used to run imported wool machinery. The mill kept growing through the 20th century, and the community that formed around it helped build the town of Mosfellsbær.
To power the mill, the Varmá was dammed above the waterfall, and the deep, naturally warm pool behind the dam became a popular place to swim and dive. You can still see the remains of the dam and of two diving boards above the falls.
Álafoss and its immediate surroundings are protected as a natural monument, covering 1.4 hectares that include the waterfall and a stretch of river above and below it. The reserve also takes in the forest at Álanes, one of the older woodlands in Mosfellsbær.
The Álafoss waterfall is free to visit and is an easy stop, with the old factory buildings a few steps away. Fifteen to thirty minutes is enough to see the falls and the remains of the dam. It works well on the way to Mosfellsdalur valley or as a short break from the city.
Good to know
Where is Álafoss waterfall?
Álafoss is on the Varmá river in Álafosskvos, Mosfellsbær, about 25 minutes' drive northeast of downtown Reykjavík.
Is Álafoss waterfall free to visit?
Yes. There's no entrance fee, and the waterfall is open to the public all year.
Why is the wool brand called Álafoss?
The wool factory that opened beside the waterfall in 1896 used the falls to power its machines and took the waterfall's name.
Can you swim at Álafoss?
The old swimming spot is gone. In the past the dam above the falls created a warm pool used for swimming and diving, and the remains of the dam and two diving boards are still visible.
How long do you need at Álafoss?
Fifteen to thirty minutes is enough to see the waterfall and the old mill buildings. It's an easy stop on the way to Mosfellsdalur.
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