VIKASTAKKEN
TRAVERSE TRIP
Bergefjell and Vikastakken are the highest mountains near Forsandbygda. Together, the peaks form a beautiful mountain ridge that is perfect for an unforgettable traverse with views in all directions. Go from A to B and end or start the trip with a bike ride along the Lysefjord.
This traverse is for those who have done some hikes before. There is only one long uphill climb to Bergefjell, but the views along the way are a great reward. We start at the ball pit located right next to Forsand Bedehus. Take a deep breath, because the ascent begins right away. In the course of 2.5 km, the trail rises 600 meters. Take your time on the hike, there is a lot to see as your gaze sweeps over Forsand and Oanes and the elongated Høgsfjorden. Parts of the trail go through forest, before you get above the tree line and are on a small mountain. Once up, you get a panoramic view that takes you all the way to the sea.
If the entire traverse seems too demanding, it is recommended to follow the same path back down. After Bergefjell, however, the terrain is somewhat easier – the trail winds past 3 beautiful mountain lakes: Svartalivatn, Stemmavatn and Stølsvatnet, before the last hill up to Vikastakken with its characteristic peak.
Up here you get a view in all directions: Lysefjorden with Jørpeland in the distance. Høgsfjorden with islands and islets and far behind you on clear days you can glimpse Stavanger. To the east it is Frafjordhatten with its characteristic shape that catches the eye, and not least Neverdalsfjellet with Preikestolen.
The path down starts gently, before gradually getting steeper. It winds between trees, rocks and heather and follows the edge of a moraine ridge for a short distance. Around Vikastølen the terrain is quite flat. The well-maintained cabin is located in a clearing in the forest, and marks the start of the steep part of the descent. The path goes steeply down through large pine forests where you can glimpse Lysefjorden between the trees. The trip ends on the road between Vika and Dørvika.
Source: ut.no
| Difficulty level | Demanding |
| Distance | 9 km (A→B) |
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Altitude in meters | 900 |
| Season | May – October |
| Link to hiking map | coming |
| GPX-file | Vikastakken |
Driving Directions and Parking
If you park 1 car at each end, it is recommended to park the car in Dørvika, or a suitable and safe place along highway 496.
As there are few parking options at Dørvika, it is recommended to use a bicycle to get back to Forsand. Check out Explore Lysefjorden in Forsand to rent an electric bike.
Public Transport
Kolumbus – local bus 120
Between Jørpeland and Forsand. Take the bus to get to the starting point. Get off at Forsand Bedehus.
Nearest Accommodation
Lysefjord’s traffic rules
- Plan and adapt your hike to your abilities and conditions. Pay attention to the weather forecast and listen to advice from the locals.
- Be prepared for bad weather and cold, and bring the necessary equipment, including good footwear, rain/windproof clothing, a flashlight, hat, gloves and an extra set of warm clothes. Expect the unexpected. Bring a daypack with a packed lunch, extra snacks and water.
- Lysefjorden as a sustainable travel destination highly values ”traceless travel”. Only take pictures with you home, and leave nothing but footprints. Act responsibly: be considerate of other hikers and nature.
- Bring a map. Walk on marked trails and follow signs and information boards. If you get lost, look for cairns and/or red Ts. Please do not build cairns yourself.
- You hike at your own risk. Turn around in time.
- In emergencies – call 113.
