Preikestolen

Preikestolen, the Pulpit Rock, is a flat square platform of rock standing six hundred metres straight above the Lysefjord, one of the most photographed cliffs on earth. The hike to it is a well-trodden half-day of about eight kilometres there and back, far more accessible than Trolltunga but still a real mountain walk.

Highlights

• The flat clifftop - the broad rock platform hanging over the fjord, with no railing.
• The fjord view - the Lysefjord stretching away six hundred metres below.
• The stepped trail - the rocky path climbing through boulders and bog to the top.
• The crowds and the edge - the famous photo at the vertiginous rim.

When to go

The snow-free months from spring to autumn, when the trail is safe without winter gear. Early morning or evening avoids the peak-day crowds and the cruise-ship day-trippers. Winter needs a guide.

Practical notes

It is far busier and easier than Trolltunga, but still a proper hike of four to five hours with steep, rocky sections - not a stroll. The clifftop has no barrier and a sheer drop, so it demands real care, especially in wind or wet. Peak summer days bring big crowds to the platform.

Nearby

Stavanger is the gateway; the Kjeragbolten hike is the other great Lysefjord walk.

Key facts