Stavanger: Preikestolen Classic Hike and Side Trail

If you’re dreaming of standing atop Norway’s most famous cliff, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), this guided tour promises an unforgettable journey. Combining the classic ascent with an exclusive side trail that few travelers explore, this experience offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of stepping off the beaten path.

One of the things we love about this tour is the opportunity to escape the crowds—the side trail that the guides take you on reveals a quieter, more intimate view of the fjord and nature. Plus, with the highly skilled and friendly guides, you’re in good hands. A potential drawback? The hike requires some level of fitness and experience, so it’s not for absolute beginners or those with mobility challenges. Still, if you’re active and craving a genuine Norwegian outdoor experience, this tour is an excellent choice.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who love nature, scenic views, and a bit of physical challenge. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a photo from the crowd—those eager for a more personal, immersive experience of Norway’s wild beauty.

Key Points

• Escape the crowds by exploring a rarely used side trail with spectacular views.
• Expert guides make the hike engaging, safe, and personalized.
• Stunning panoramic vistas of Lysefjorden reward your effort.
• The tour includes transportation and some seasonal technical equipment for safety.
• Small groups (limited to 8 people) allow for a more intimate experience.
• The value at $168 includes a guided hike, snacks, and hot berry juice, making it a well-rounded adventure.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Your Day: Convenience and Comfort

The adventure begins with a pickup from one of 13 designated locations around Stavanger. Whether you’re staying at a hotel, B&B, or a central landmark, the pickup process is straightforward—your guide will have your name and the vehicle clearly marked. The drive to the trailhead takes about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the Norwegian scenery even before the hike begins.

The Trailhead: Preparations and Info

Upon arrival, your guide will brief you on the trail conditions, safety tips, and gear recommendations. This is especially helpful if you’re new to hiking or unfamiliar with Norwegian weather fluctuations. Restrooms are available here, so you can freshen up before tackling the trail.

The Hike Begins: A Balanced Mix of Challenge and Relaxation

The hike takes approximately 2.5 hours, but don’t expect a relentless climb—your guide will pace the group comfortably, allowing time for photos, breaks, and adjusting clothing. The actual trail is well-trodden, but the highlight is the side trail that veers off the main path. This lesser-known route offers a more secluded experience, with incredible views that the majority miss out on.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Stephan and Erlend are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise. “He made the hike much easier, showed me the best photo spots, and even took some fantastic pictures,” says a recent participant. A dog also often joins the guides, adding a little extra charm to the day.

Reaching Preikestolen: The Iconic Clifftop

After around two hours of steady hiking, you arrive at the sheer cliff face of Preikestolen, perched 604 meters above Lysefjorden. The views are spectacular—vast, rugged fjords stretching into the distance, with the rock itself offering a dramatic contrast against the water below.

Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the panoramic vistas are, with some saying, “Seeing the view of the fjords at the top would have been amazing,” highlighting how weather can sometimes obscure the scenery. Still, even in fog or rain, the experience remains powerful, and the sense of achievement is undeniable.

The Return and Reflection

After soaking in the scenery, capturing photos, and perhaps enjoying a snack or the provided hot berry juice, it’s time to head back down. The descent is generally quicker, but guides like Allan and Stefan are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey down just as pleasant as the climb up.

Additional Perks

Included in the $168 price are a guided hike, roundtrip transportation, and seasonal technical equipment. You also get a small snack and the renowned hot berry juice, which is a delightful treat after the exertion. Some reviews mention the quality of the food and the friendly atmosphere, emphasizing the value for money.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup: Offers 13 options around Stavanger, including hotels like Radisson Blu and Thon Hotel Maritim, making it easy to join regardless of where you’re staying.

Drive to Trailhead: Scenic 40-minute ride sets the mood for adventure.

Trail Briefing & Preparation: Guides share trail insights and safety tips—crucial for a smooth hike.

Hiking: Approximately 2.5 hours, with time allocated for photos, snacks, and clothing adjustments. The guides often take a side trail—a less crowded, more intimate route—adding to the experience’s uniqueness.

Reaching Preikestolen: 604 meters above Lysefjorden, with panoramic views that everyone dreams of capturing.

Return: The descent is faster, with guides creating a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation and photo stops.

Drop-off: 13 locations around Stavanger, including hotels and landmarks.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Reviewers consistently highlight how knowledgeable guides like Stefan, Erlend, and Allan make the experience memorable, not just by leading the hike but by sharing insights into Norway’s nature and culture. Many mention how the guides’ friendliness and familiarity with the terrain made the hike easier and more enjoyable.

The side trail is a particular highlight—one reviewer says, “The trek was awesome. We took the side trail and it was only our group all through the mother nature.” This confirms that you’ll get a more secluded, peaceful experience away from the crowds, which is increasingly important at a popular site like Preikestolen.

Others rave about the food and drinks—a simple snack and hot berry juice might seem modest, but reviewers say it adds a cozy, satisfying touch to the journey. The guide Alan’s storytelling and the presence of Baba, his dog, add a personable element to the trip, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day with friends.

Price, Value, and Practicalities

At $168 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes transportation, guiding, snacks, and equipment. The small-group size (limited to 8) makes for a more personalized, less rushed experience—an important factor when tackling rugged terrain.

The tour is designed for active travelers with some hiking experience. It’s not suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or those with low fitness levels. The reviews echo this, with many participants praising guides like Alen and Gimli (a dog) for keeping everyone safe and motivated.

Weather can vary—some reviews mention snow, rain, and fog—so packing appropriate gear (waterproof jackets, hiking boots, warm clothing) is advised. Restrooms at the trailhead add convenience, but you should be prepared for a full day out.

Final Thoughts

This guided hike to Preikestolen with a side trail is a treasure for adventure lovers looking to go beyond the typical tourist experience. The combination of expert guides, stunning views, and the chance to explore a less crowded route makes it stand out. It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic connection to Norway’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos, conversation, and solo reflection.

The value for money is clear, and the reviews underline how guides like Stephan, Erlend, and Allan elevate the experience through their friendliness and knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a moderately active traveler seeking a genuine Norwegian experience, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, including pick-up, the hike, and drop-off. Exact start times depend on your chosen location.

Where do I meet the guide?
Pick-up is available from 13 different locations in Stavanger, including hotels, B&Bs, and landmarks like St. Svithun Hotell and the Victoria Hotel.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing, a hat, snacks, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, gloves, socks, a daypack, hiking pants, and waterproof bags. Jeans and high heels are not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The hike is recommended for those with some hiking experience and active fitness (a cardio workout per week). It’s not suitable for children under 6 or those with low fitness levels.

What’s included in the price?
Guided hike, roundtrip transportation, seasonal technical equipment, a small snack, and hot berry juice.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the side trail optional?
Yes, guides may lead you on the side trail if conditions allow, but it’s not mandatory. It offers a quieter, more secluded view of the fjord.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Norwegian, making communication easy for international travelers.

In summary, this Preikestolen tour delivers a mix of challenge, scenery, and local insight, all wrapped in a well-organized, value-packed package. If you’re looking for more than just a selfie shot and want to really connect with Norway’s majestic landscape, this guided hike is a fantastic choice.