HIKING TO PREIKESTOLEN - NORWAY'S ICONIC CLIFF WITH A VIEW

The hike to Preikestolen — also known as Pulpit Rock — is a true highlight. This towering cliff rises 604 meters above the Lysefjord and offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in all of Scandinavia. It’s no surprise that this trail is among the most popular hikes in the country.

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We started our day early, which is highly recommended. Preikestolen attracts hundreds of hikers daily, especially in summer, so beginning before 8 AM helps you avoid the crowds and enjoy the trail in peace. The morning light over the fjord adds a magical touch to the experience, with mist often rising from the water below.

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The hike begins at the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge, located about an hour’s drive from Stavanger. From there, the trail stretches roughly 8 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 500 meters. It’s a moderately challenging hike — not technical, but it does require a reasonable level of fitness. The path is well-maintained, with stone steps, wooden walkways, and natural terrain winding through forests, marshes, and rocky outcrops.

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As we climbed, the scenery constantly shifted. One moment we were walking through pine forests, the next we were crossing open ridges with sweeping views. There are several spots along the way to pause, catch your breath, and take in the surroundings. The final stretch is the most dramatic: the trail opens up to reveal the flat-topped cliff of Preikestolen, jutting out over the fjord like a giant stone platform.

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Standing at the edge (carefully — there are no railings), the view is simply jaw-dropping. The fjord stretches out below, flanked by steep cliffs and shimmering water. Many hikers sit near the edge to take photos or just soak in the moment. It’s a place that feels both peaceful and powerful — nature at its most awe-inspiring.

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For those who prefer not to hike, there’s also the option to see Preikestolen from below by taking a boat tour through the Lysefjord. Looking up at the cliff from the water gives you a whole new appreciation for its scale and grandeur. (if you follow our route, you did this already the day before)