Exploring Preikestolen: Norway’s Unforgettable Cliffside

Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten had been on my radar since I first visited Norway back in 2008. I was staying with friends I’d met the year before in India, and when I asked about their favorite attractions in Norway, they raved about these two iconic landmarks. I had never seen them in photos before and was blown away by how impressive they looked. While I knew about the famous fjord cruises, hiking up to these natural wonders was a whole different story. The Norwegians are built differently, I thought. I loved the idea, but for one reason or another, I never found the time to make it happen.

Fast forward to 2018, and I finally had my chance. The previous year, I’d told my family I wanted to take individual trips with each of them to create lasting memories. For my brother, this was going to be our perfect trip. I love him dearly, but as with all relationships, it’s easy to let time slip away without spending enough of it together. This trip was our opportunity to bond and experience something extraordinary.

I showed him the photos of Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten, and he was immediately pumped. We planned to tackle both in one weekend, but our initial idea of hiking both in a single day quickly proved unrealistic. The journey time and ferry schedules just wouldn’t allow it-unless we wanted to climb in the dark, which we didn’t. We’re adventurers, not expeditioners.

After some research, we found great advice online: Norway is expensive, and Kjeragbolten is in the countryside, so you’ll need supplies. Stay at the Quality Airport Hotel-it’s walking distance from the airport (1.8km or about 20 minutes)-and the breakfast is phenomenal. You can stock up on enough food for lunch or even make sandwiches for the hike. This was some of the best advice we received, and I’d encourage anyone planning a similar trip to do the same. The hotel was perfect for us, and the breakfast was enough to fuel our adventure.

Hiking Preikestolen: A Moderate Yet Unforgettable Challenge

Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, is one of Norway’s most famous landmarks, attracting visitors from around the globe with its breathtaking views over Lysefjorden. Originally known as Hyvlatonnå in Old Norse, the cliff was renamed in the 19th century by Thomas Peter Randulf, who thought it resembled a preacher’s pulpit. By the early 1900s, the name had become popular, thanks to local tourism efforts, and Preikestolen has since become a must-visit spot.

Geology and History: Shaped by Ice and Time

More than 10,000 years ago, massive glaciers carved out the landscape of Lysefjorden, slowly chipping away at the mountains and leaving behind what we now know as Preikestolen. Its nearly square, flat top juts out like a giant platform, making it one of the most recognizable and photographed natural wonders in Norway.

How to Hike Preikestolen: A Manageable Adventure

At first glance, Preikestolen might look intimidating, but the hike is surprisingly manageable. The trail is 3.8 kilometers each way, with a 334-meter elevation gain. Most people complete the hike in 1-2 hours, depending on their pace and fitness level.

Starting at Preikestolenhytta, the path quickly leads into rocky terrain, with some steep sections along the way. But don’t worry-the trail is well-marked, and the reward at the top is well worth the effort. The views of the fjord below are nothing short of breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment as you stand on the iconic cliff is unforgettable.

Getting to Preikestolen from Stavanger

If you’re beginning your journey in Stavanger, you have a few options to reach Preikestolen. The most common route is to drive, which takes about 1.5 hours, including a ferry ride from Lauvik to Oanes across Høgsfjord. For those without access to a car, buses and boats are also available, making it an accessible destination for everyone.

Is It Safe to Visit Preikestolen?

Standing on the edge of a 2,000-foot drop with no barriers might sound terrifying to some, but Preikestolen is generally safe for anyone who exercises caution. Norway values keeping nature as untouched as possible, so don’t expect to see guardrails or fences here. It’s all about respecting nature and understanding the risks involved.

As long as you stay a safe distance from the edge and avoid visiting on particularly windy days, the hike is just as safe as any other outdoor adventure.

What to Bring for the Hike

Norwegian weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist for your Preikestolen hike:

• Sturdy hiking shoes: The trail is rocky and uneven in places, so you’ll need good shoes for stability.
• Rain gear: The weather can change quickly, and even on a sunny day, a downpour might surprise you.
• Water and snacks: There’s nothing available at the top, so be sure to pack enough to keep you going for stay.
• A light backpack: Pack only the essentials to keep your load light and manageable.
• A light wind jacket: Even in May, the wind off the fjord make it feel chilly on the top.

My Experience: Standing on the Edge of the World

The hike to Preikestolen took us about 75 minutes, and reaching the top was everything I had hoped for. The views from the edge of the cliff, with nothing between you and the 2,000-foot drop, were awe-inspiring. It’s a thrilling, slightly nerve-wracking experience that I won’t soon forget.

If you’re like me and aren’t afraid of heights, standing on the edge of Preikestolen is an freaking unral. I LOVED IT. But for those (Hirren) who prefer a bit more distance, there are plenty of other nearby spots offering just as spectacular views-minus the vertigo.

On the way back down, Iid recomend taking a small detours to see a side viewpoint, It’s much quieter here, away from the crowds, and the view of Preikestolen’s profile against the fjord is just as stunning.

Conclusion: A Must-Do Adventure in Norway

Preikestolen is an absolute must for anyone visiting Norway. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking views, this iconic cliff offers a rewarding and unforgettable adventure. The combination of natural beauty, fascinating geology, and a manageable hiking trail makes Preikestolen one of Norway’s top experiences.

From the moment you step onto the trail to the final, breathtaking view over Lysefjorden, Preikestolen offers an adventure that’s as memorable as it is awe-inspiring.