Preikestolen

Preikestolen (also spelled Prekestolen, and known locally as Hyvlatonnå) is one of Norway's most famous cliffs. This rock shelf rises 604 metres above Lysefjorden in Strand Municipality, Rogaland county, in the Ryfylke region. Its English name, Pulpit Rock, fits its shape well.

What does Preikestolen look like?

The top of the cliff is an almost flat platform of about 25 by 25 metres. From the edge you look straight down to the water and along the long, narrow stretch of Lysefjorden. The rock sits in the western part of the fjord, on its north side. The platform ranks among the biggest tourist attractions in Norway and has become a symbol of the whole region.

How did the cliff form?

Geologists say the shelf formed around 10,000 years ago, when frost cracked the rock. Glacial landscape shaping gave the area its steep character. The fracture visible near the edge is a reminder that this is a natural formation.

How do you hike to Preikestolen?

A popular trail leads to the top from the car park at Preikestolen Fjellstue (formerly Preikestolhytta, now Preikestolen Basecamp). The round trip is about 8 km and usually takes 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on pace and conditions. The hike is rated moderate: a rocky path with climbs, so sturdy footwear is needed.

When to go

May to October is the best season. In winter the trail calls for crampons and experience, and fjord weather changes quickly. Bring a warm layer, water and snacks, as there are no shops along the route. Early morning is the quietest time, with fewer people on the platform.

Getting there from Stavanger

By car it takes about 90 minutes through a subsea tunnel. By public transport, take the ferry to Tau (about 40 minutes), then a bus to the car park (about 30 minutes). The ferry runs year-round, but buses are less frequent outside the peak season, so check timetables in advance.

What else is nearby?

Across Lysefjorden rises Kjerag, another very popular summit in the region, known for a boulder wedged in a rock crevice. Many visitors combine the two, though each needs its own day of hiking. Stavanger makes a good base, and the fjord can also be explored from a sightseeing boat.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Preikestolen? The cliff rises 604 metres above Lysefjorden.

How big is the viewing platform? About 25 by 25 metres, and almost flat.

How long does the hike take? The round trip is about 8 km and usually takes 2.5 to 4 hours.

Where is Preikestolen? In Strand Municipality, Rogaland county, in south-western Norway, above Lysefjorden.

Is the edge fenced? The sources we have do not indicate a safety barrier at the edge, so take care and keep back from it in wind.