Stavanger: Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch

Stavanger: Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch — A Truly Unique Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to visit Norway’s most iconic landmark without battling crowds, this tour could be just what you need. It promises an off-the-beaten-path experience, combining a peaceful canoe ride, a challenging hidden trail, and stunning panoramic views from Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). With a small group size, skilled guides, and personalized touches like a packed lunch, this tour stands out from more typical day-trips.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? The fact that it takes you on a less traveled route, leading to breathtaking vistas no one else will spoil. Plus, the canoeing adds a peaceful, almost meditative start to the day. The only potential caveat? It’s not a beginner-friendly hike — the terrain can be rocky, and some scrambling is involved, so a good level of fitness is needed.

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a more authentic, quiet encounter with Norway’s rugged nature, and are comfortable with a moderate to challenging hike. If you’re after crowds-free scenery, a dash of adventure, and a taste of local culture, this will suit you well.

Key Points

• Crowd-Free Experience: You’ll hike a little-known trail, avoiding the crowds typical of Pulpit Rock.
• Expert Guides: Local guides are highly experienced, passionate, and dedicated to safety.
• Unique Start: The day kicks off with a relaxing canoe ride across a tranquil lake.
• Delicious Packed Lunch: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal from a historic Norwegian restaurant.
• Moderate to Challenging Hike: Includes some scrambling, rocky terrain, and elevation gain—suitable for active hikers.
• Small Group Dynamics: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transport

The adventure begins with a prompt pickup from one of 12 convenient locations in Stavanger, including popular hotels and landmarks like St. Petri Kirke and the Clarion Hotel. This convenience means less hassle for travelers, especially after a night of travel or sightseeing.

The drive to the basecamp takes around 30 minutes, with a quick stop at Villa Rosehagen, an historic Norwegian restaurant, to pick up packed lunches. This detail is a nice touch, giving you a taste of local cuisine and culture before the hike (definitely let the operators know about any dietary restrictions ahead of time).

Canoe Ride: Peaceful Paddling

Once at the basecamp, you’ll get geared up with life vests and paddles. The canoeing segment lasts about an hour over Revsvatnet lake, offering a tranquil start to your day. Reviewers commonly mention the canoe ride as a highlight — a peaceful, almost meditative experience that sets the tone.

One reviewer praises the guide’s attentive care: “Even if I don’t know how to swim, he took care of me and made me feel safe in the canoe.” This care and professionalism are common themes, making even those less confident in water feel at ease.

The Hidden Trail: A Solitary Ascent

After the canoe, you’ll hike along an almost unknown, rediscovered trail. Unlike the busy main route, this path is a secret cut through Norway’s mountains, discovered by a pioneering local guide. Expect a moderate to challenging hike of approximately 3.5 hours, traversing diverse landscapes with rocky scrambles and some steep sections.

Multiple reviews mention the trail’s exclusivity. One reviewer says, “We had the entire trail to ourselves, unlike the crowded usual route,” which adds a special sense of intimacy to the experience. The trail offers spectacular views of the fjord and surrounding mountains, with plenty of opportunities to rest, chat, or snap photos.

The Lunch Break: A Norwegian Feast

Around the midway point, the guides encourage a break to enjoy the packed lunch — a thoughtfully prepared meal from Villa Rosehagen. Many reviewers mention the hot berry juice and local delicacies, which provide much-needed energy after some uphill work.

Reaching Preikestolen: The Grand Reward

After about 6 hours of hiking, you arrive at Preikestolen at 604 meters above Lysefjorden. The sheer cliff face and expansive fjord views make the effort worthwhile. Unlike the typical crowded vantage points, you’ll find yourself sharing the space with only a few fellow explorers, thanks to the hidden trail.

Reviewers highlight how breathtaking the panoramic vistas are, especially considering the effort to get there. One comments, “The views from this secret trail are better than the main route and much less crowded.” It’s a real privilege to experience Norway’s natural beauty in peace.

Descent and Return

The walk back usually takes around 2.5 hours, winding down through the same diverse landscapes. The guides keep the pace steady, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The return drive to Stavanger is smooth, giving you time to reflect on a day packed with adventure and stunning scenery.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $273 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines active adventure, cultural touches, and exclusive scenery. When you factor in the canoe ride, expert guides, transportation, and a hearty lunch, it’s quite good value — especially considering the small group size and personalized attention.

Duration and Group Size

The full day lasts about 9 hours, with flexible start times based on your selected pickup. The small group limit of 8 ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. This is ideal if you dislike large tour buses and overcrowded viewpoints.

Suitability and Physical Requirements

While the tour is suitable for anyone with some hiking experience, it’s not recommended for complete beginners. Several reviewers noted that you should be active and comfortable on rocky terrain. It’s also not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

What to Bring

You’ll want to wear sturdy hiking shoes, and consider bringing water-resistant clothing if the weather looks unpredictable. The guides provide technical equipment suited for the terrain, but you might want a small backpack for snacks or extra layers.

Important Restrictions

Dark jeans or high heels are not allowed, and the hike involves some scrambling and rocky sections, so proper footwear is essential. The guides are attentive about safety, but hikers should be in good physical shape.

Why Choose This Tour?

What truly sets this experience apart is the combination of adventure, exclusivity, and cultural flavor. You get to stand on Norway’s most famous cliff in a quiet, private setting, all while paddling across a serene lake and enjoying a delicious traditional meal. The knowledgeable guides—often praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and local insights—make the journey even more enriching.

Reviewers repeatedly mention how the guides make them feel safe, share interesting facts, and even go the extra mile by offering to take photos or share local tips. The addition of the canoe ride makes this more than a hike; it’s a full-day, multi-sensory adventure.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a more authentic, less crowded way to experience Norway’s natural beauty. It appeals to those who are comfortable with moderate hiking and rocky terrain. If you love a bit of water-based tranquility and enjoy being immersed in nature, this adventure delivers.

It’s ideal for those looking for a small-group, personalized experience that balances physical activity with cultural moments, like enjoying local food. If your goal is to avoid the crowds and find your own quiet corner of Norway’s stunning landscape, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. When you weigh the value of expert guidance, exclusive trails, stunning views, and an authentic Norwegian lunch, the price reflects a comprehensive, memorable day. You’re not just ticking off a bucket-list item — you’re gaining a deep, peaceful connection with Norway’s wilderness.

This experience is best suited for active travelers with a taste for adventure and a desire for authentic encounters. It’s perfect if you’re willing to put in some effort for spectacular, crowd-free scenery and a richer story to tell.

If you’re after the classic “crowd-pleasing” Pulpit Rock with throngs of travelers, this might not be your best choice. But if you crave a quiet, personalized adventure that combines paddling, challenging hiking, and breathtaking vistas, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Not quite. This hike involves rocky terrain and some scrambling, so it’s best for those with hiking experience or a good level of fitness.

How long does the entire day last?
The full experience takes about 9 hours, including pickup, travel, canoeing, hiking, lunch, and return.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation, a guided canoe ride, use of technical equipment, a hot berry juice, a small snack, and a packed lunch.

Can I customize dietary restrictions?
Yes, just let the organizers know beforehand, and they’ll prepare your lunch accordingly.

How many people are in a typical group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a smaller, more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, or those under 3 ft 3 in (100 cm) or under 33 lbs (15 kg).

What should I wear?
Sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Avoid jeans and high heels.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with flexible cancellation and pay nothing until closer to the date.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rare opportunity to see Norway’s iconic Pulpit Rock without the crowds, thanks to a discreet hidden trail and peaceful canoe start. It combines physical challenge with natural beauty, guided by passionate locals who prioritize safety and personal touches. Perfect for active explorers yearning for an authentic, quiet adventure in one of Europe’s most stunning landscapes.