At a Glance
Quick OverviewLysefjord—meaning “Light Fjord” in Old Norse—lives up to its name with crystal-clear waters reflecting bright sunlight against mighty granite cliffs. Carved by massive glaciers during the last Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago, this 42-kilometre fjord has become one of Norway’s most famous destinations, thanks to two iconic hiking landmarks: the flat-topped Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and the gravity-defying Kjeragbolten boulder.
According to Visit Norway, mountains soar over 1,000 metres above sea level along extensive stretches of the fjord, creating one of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes.
Top Hiking Destinations
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
According to Visit Norway, Preikestolen towers 604 metres above Lysefjord and is one of Norway’s most famous mountain hikes, attracting more than 300,000 nature-loving hikers every year.
Hike specifications:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 8 km round-trip |
| Elevation gain | 500 metres |
| Duration | 4 hours total |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Season | Year-round (guided in winter) |
What to expect: From the starting point at Preikestolen Fjellstue mountain lodge, the well-marked trail winds through patched forests and rocky terrain, providing staggering vistas along the way. Some sections are steep, but the trail is well-maintained with stone steps in difficult areas.
When to hike:
- Peak season (June-August): Best weather, longest days, but most crowded
- Shoulder season (May, September-October): Fewer crowds, good conditions
- Winter (November-April): Requires special equipment and guide; magical snowy scenery
Kjeragbolten (The Kjerag Boulder)
According to Lysefjorden.com, Kjeragbolten is a boulder wedged in a deep mountain gorge 1,032 metres above sea level. Standing on the famous rock—suspended between two cliff faces with nothing but air below—is one of Norway’s most iconic photo opportunities.
Hike specifications:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 11 km round-trip |
| Elevation gain | 570 metres |
| Duration | 5-6 hours total |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Season | June-September |
Trail characteristics:
- Three steep ascents with chains for assistance
- Rocky, uneven terrain throughout
- Requires good physical condition
- Not suitable for those afraid of heights
- Weather-dependent (do not attempt in rain or wind)
Kjeragbolten photo tips:
- Arrive early to avoid queues for the boulder
- Wait your turn patiently (everyone wants the photo)
- Have someone ready to take multiple shots
- Check weather before committing to the hike
Flørlitrappene (The Flørli Stairs)
According to Lysefjorden.com, midway along Lysefjord lies Flørli, a small roadless village famous for the world’s longest wooden stairway—4,444 steps climbing 740 metres above the fjord.
Stairway details:
- Steps: 4,444 (yes, really!)
- Height gain: 740 metres
- Duration: Less than 2 hours up
- Access: Ferry to Flørli village
History: The stairs were built to service a historic hydroelectric power station, now converted to a unique accommodation. The climb is steep but straightforward—the challenge is the relentless upward march.
Fjord Cruises and Water Activities
Lysefjord Cruises
According to Fjord Norway, the captivating beauty of Lysefjord up-close is best experienced from the water. Cruises offer the chance to see Preikestolen from below—a perspective that reveals just how dramatic the 604-metre drop really is.
What you’ll see on a cruise:
- Preikestolen viewed from the fjord
- Hengjanefossen waterfall (plunging into the fjord)
- Towering 1,000m granite cliffs
- Flørli and other roadless villages
- Wildlife including seals and seabirds
Cruise options:
| Type | Duration | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fjord cruise | 3 hours | Stavanger |
| Extended cruise | 5 hours | Stavanger |
| RIB boat adventure | 2-3 hours | Stavanger/Lysebotn |
| Sunset cruise | 4 hours | Stavanger |
Kayaking
Kayaking offers the most intimate Lysefjord experience—paddling beneath towering cliffs, approaching waterfalls, and exploring hidden corners inaccessible by larger vessels. Tours depart from Forsand or can be combined with hiking.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUP hire and paddle boat hire are available in Lysebotn at the fjord’s eastern end, allowing peaceful exploration of the calm fjord waters.
Book Fjord CruiseGetting to Lysefjord
From Stavanger
Lysefjord is approximately one hour’s drive from Stavanger.
Transportation options:
1. Preikestolen Express Bus (recommended for hikers) According to Go Fjords, the Preikestolen Express bus runs from Stavanger city centre to the trailhead in about an hour, with multiple daily departures during hiking season.
2. Express Bus to Kjeragbolten Go Fjords also operates an express bus to Øygardsstøl for Kjeragbolten hikers.
3. Ferry
- Stavanger to Tau: ~1 hour
- From Tau: Drive to Preikestolen trailhead (25 minutes)
- Tourist ferry services the whole length of Lysefjord
4. Hire Car Maximum flexibility for exploring multiple sites. Parking available at all trailheads (fee applies).
5. Organised Tour Many tour operators offer combined transportation, guided hike, and sometimes fjord cruise—an excellent option for solo travellers or those preferring hassle-free logistics.
From Oslo
- Drive: Approximately 8 hours via E18/E39
- Fly: Direct flights to Stavanger (1 hour), then local transport
- Train + Bus: Train to Stavanger (8 hours), then express bus
Where to Stay
Near the Trails
Preikestolen Basecamp According to Lysefjorden.com, Preikestolen Basecamp offers multiple accommodation styles at the trailhead:
- Mountain Lodge: Hotel-standard rooms
- Preikestolhytta: Rustic cabin charm
- Hikers’ Camp: Glamping tents
- WaterCamp: Lakeside floating cabins
Gøysa Gard A small Norwegian farm with panorama views over Lysefjord, close to Preikestolen, Kjerag, and Flørli. Accommodates 25 persons in 5 comfortable apartments.
In Stavanger
Most visitors stay in Stavanger and day-trip to Lysefjord. The city offers:
- Full range of hotels (budget to luxury)
- Restaurants and nightlife
- Easy access to express buses
- Additional attractions and museums
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August)
Best for: Full access to all hiking trails
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 15-25°C (59-77°F) |
| Daylight | Up to 19 hours |
| Crowds | Highest |
| Trail access | All trails open |
| Activities | Full range available |
Shoulder Season (May, September-October)
Best for: Fewer crowds, good hiking conditions
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 8-15°C (46-59°F) |
| Daylight | 12-16 hours |
| Crowds | Moderate to low |
| Trail access | Most trails open |
| Special | Autumn colours in September |
Winter (November-April)
Best for: Unique snowy scenery, northern lights potential
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | -5 to 5°C (23-41°F) |
| Daylight | 6-8 hours |
| Crowds | Minimal |
| Trail access | Guided tours only (special equipment required) |
| Special | Snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls |
What to Bring
Essential Hiking Gear
- Hiking boots: Comfortable, durable, with good ankle support
- Layers: Weather changes quickly in the fjords
- Rain jacket: Essential even on sunny days
- Gloves and hat: Temperatures drop at altitude
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Reflections off rock and water
- Plenty of water: At least 1.5 litres per person
- Snacks and lunch: Limited/no facilities on trails
- Phone/camera: Fully charged
For Fjord Cruises
- Warm layers (cooler on the water)
- Windproof jacket
- Camera with zoom lens
- Binoculars for wildlife
- Motion sickness medication if needed
Safety Tips
Hiking Safety
- Check weather: Do not hike in rain, fog, or high winds
- Start early: Avoid crowds and afternoon weather changes
- Stay on marked trails: Terrain is dangerous off-trail
- Proper footwear: Rocky terrain gets slippery
- Know your limits: Kjeragbolten is genuinely challenging
- Tell someone: Share your hiking plans
- Emergency number: 113 (Norway emergency)
Kjeragbolten Specific
- Do not step onto the boulder in wet or icy conditions
- Wait your turn—rushing creates danger
- Keep children and pets under control
- Turn back if weather deteriorates
Lysefjord Wildlife
Keep eyes open for:
- Seals: Often seen basking on rocks
- Eagles: White-tailed sea eagles patrol the cliffs
- Seabirds: Cormorants, guillemots, and more
- Deer: Sometimes visible from cruise boats
- Fish: Salmon, trout in clear waters
Combining Lysefjord with Other Destinations
Multi-Day Itinerary
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Stavanger, explore Old Town |
| 2 | Preikestolen hike (full day) |
| 3 | Lysefjord cruise + Flørli stairs |
| 4 | Kjeragbolten hike (challenging) |
| 5 | Depart or continue to Bergen/Oslo |
Nearby Attractions
- Stavanger Old Town: Wooden house district
- Norwegian Petroleum Museum: Oil industry history
- Swords in Rock: Viking monument
- Jæren beaches: Sandy coastline south of Stavanger
Practical Information
Costs (2026 estimates)
| Item | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Preikestolen car park | £12-20 |
| Kjeragbolten car park | £12-20 |
| Preikestolen Express bus | £35-45 round-trip |
| Lysefjord cruise | £50-80 |
| Guided Preikestolen hike | £65-95 |
| Guided Kjeragbolten hike | £80-120 |
Facilities
At Preikestolen trailhead:
- Car park
- Toilets
- Café/restaurant at Preikestolen Fjellstue
- Accommodation options
- Outdoor gear shop
At Øygardsstøl (Kjeragbolten trailhead):
- Car park
- Basic toilets
- Café (seasonal)
Final Thoughts
Lysefjord offers some of Norway’s most accessible yet dramatic experiences. Whether you’re standing on Preikestolen’s edge 604 metres above the water, stepping onto the suspended Kjeragbolten boulder, climbing the 4,444 Flørli stairs, or cruising beneath towering granite cliffs, this “Light Fjord” delivers unforgettable memories. Its proximity to Stavanger makes it perfect for travellers with limited time, whilst its range of activities satisfies everyone from casual cruisers to serious adventurers.
For official information, visit Visit Norway Lysefjord Guide and Lysefjorden.com.