Ásbrú Ghost Town
Suðurnes
Ásbrú, formerly known as Vallarheiði, is a district in Reykjanesbær, Iceland, located on the Mid-Mountains (Miðnesheiði) near Keflavík Airport. It was originally a NATO military base hosting U.S. defense forces for nearly 60 years until their departure in 2006. At its peak, the base housed around 5,700 residents, making it one of the largest settlements in Iceland and a major employer in the Reykjanes Peninsula. After the military left, the area underwent a significant transformation aimed at creating value for the community. The development company Kadeco was established to repurpose the site for civilian use. The educational company Keilir was founded in 2007, with collaboration from the University of Iceland and private enterprises. Subsequently, the Háskólavellir company acquired a large portion of residential buildings to develop university dormitories, which by 2009 housed about 1,700 students. Today, Ásbrú stands as a unique example of military-to-civilian redevelopment, blending educational institutions with residential life in a historically significant location.
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Tip: The best time to visit Ásbrú is during the summer months when the weather in Iceland is milder and outdoor exploration is more comfortable. Visitors interested in the area's history and transformation should consider guided tours if available, and check for events or open days at educational institutions like Keilir. While the area is accessible freely, some parts may require prior permission or registration, so planning ahead is recommended. Discounts or special access may be available for students or groups connected with the educational facilities.
Interesting facts
- •At its peak, the NATO base at Ásbrú housed approximately 5,700 residents, making it one of the largest settlements in Iceland at the time.
- •The military base was the largest employer in the Reykjanes Peninsula for several decades.
- •The transformation of Ásbrú from a military base to an educational hub is a rare example of successful repurposing of defense infrastructure.
- •The educational company Keilir was established in 2007 as part of the redevelopment plan, involving the University of Iceland and private companies.
- •By 2009, about 1,700 students lived in the newly developed university dormitories at Ásbrú.
History
Ásbrú was originally a NATO defense base established near Keflavík Airport and was home to U.S.
military personnel for almost six decades.
At its height, it was one of Iceland's largest communities due to the military presence.
In 2006, the U.S.
military fully withdrew, prompting a redevelopment initiative.
The Kadeco company was founded to convert the former military area into civilian use, focusing on education and housing.
By 2009, the site had transitioned into a university campus area with significant student accommodation.