Refsnelia

## Overview Refsnelia is a public drinking spring located in the Moss municipality of Østfold county, Norway, nestled in a residential area near Blåveislia in the town of Moss. Situated at approximately 59.44°N, 10.62°E, this spring sits in a region shaped by post-glacial geology, where retreating ice sheets left behind layers of sand and gravel that naturally filter groundwater — a common source of clean, cold springs throughout southeastern Norway. The name "Refsnelia" likely draws from traditional Norwegian place-naming conventions, with "Refs-" possibly referencing a local family name or landscape feature, and "-nelia" suggesting a hillside or slope. Springs like this one have historically served as important community water sources in Norwegian towns and rural areas, long before modern municipal water systems were established. Visitors and locals have historically used Refsnelia as a source of fresh drinking water, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary over time. ## Directions 1. Head to the town of **Moss**, located along the eastern shore of the Oslofjord, roughly 60 km south of Oslo. 2. Navigate to **Blåveislia 2, 1518 Moss**. The spring is situated in or near this residential street. 3. GPS coordinates for the spring: **59.4377, 10.6222**. Using a GPS device or smartphone navigation app with these coordinates is recommended, as the spring may not appear on all standard maps. 4. Look for the spring access point in the immediate vicinity of Blåveislia. Local signage or a visible water outlet may mark the location. ## What to Expect Refsnelia is a community-accessible spring in a quiet, residential part of Moss. Expect a modest, functional spring setup typical of Norwegian public drinking springs — often a pipe or spout emerging from the ground or a low stone structure. The surrounding area along Blåveislia is characterized by typical southeastern Norwegian suburban landscape, with mixed woodland and residential homes. As a public drinking spring, Refsnelia has been used by locals as a freshwater source, and the water has been reported to be appreciated for its taste and quality. However, natural spring water is not municipally tested or treated, and conditions can change with weather and season. Springtime snowmelt and heavy rains may temporarily affect water clarity or flow. The spring is accessible year-round, though winter conditions in Moss (temperatures can drop well below freezing from December through March) may affect flow or accessibility. Visitors arriving by car should be mindful of parking in the residential neighborhood and respectful of nearby homes.