Kjerag
The Kjerag massif is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Norway, with a granite wall stretching along Lysefjorden with a height of over 1000 meters. The mountain is a popular tourist attraction, known for base jumping, climbing, and the famous Kjeragbolten.
The Kjerag massif is a majestic granite wall that extends along the Lysefjord. Standing over 1000 meters tall, it is one of Norway’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This enormous granite wall was formed over thousands of years by the action of ice. Today, the mountain range is a popular tourist attraction, drawing more than 65,000 visitors each year.
Kjerag Mountain is famous for being a top destination for base jumping, with many jumps made each summer from the edge of the cliff. Legend has it that a large rockfall from the Kjerag massif created the large peninsula that protrudes into the Lysefjord at the mountain’s foot. Geitaneset, formerly used as a spring pasture and summer grazing ground for goats and cows, is now a landing site for base jumpers. On the small flat area at the fjord’s edge, jumpers are picked up by boat and taken back to Lysebotn. The mountain is also known as a challenging climb for experienced mountaineers. It takes over a day to climb from the fjord to the summit.
Those who wish to hike to the Kjerag massif start at Øygardstøl, also known as the Eagle’s Nest. The restaurant here is perched on a 640-meter-high cliff and offers a spectacular view of Lysebotn. The hike to Kjerag is strenuous, covering a distance of 5.5 kilometers each way and with an elevation gain of 750 meters. It is advisable to allow 2.5-3 hours each way. To prevent unnecessary wear and tear and due to heavy traffic, the main trail to Kjerag has been paved with stones over damp areas and secured with railings on several challenging sections. It is essential to follow the main trail as much as possible to minimize the impact on the environment. The birdlife on the Kjerag massif is sparse, with only five species of birds nesting here regularly, including ptarmigan, wheatear, and snow bunting.
One of the most popular attractions on the Kjerag massif is the Kjeragbolten, a massive boulder wedged between two mountain walls. The Kjeragbolten is a natural wonder created by the ice’s retreat and provides an unforgettable experience for those who dare to venture out onto the rock. Standing on the boulder is a once-in-a-lifetime event. There is a 1000-meter drop under the boulder, and there are no safety measures. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Just before reaching the Kjeragbolten, right on the edge of the cliff, lies Nesatind, where visitors can find a fantastic viewpoint worth visiting. When one peers over the edge of the plateau’s top, one can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view. The entire Lysefjord between Lysebotn and Preikestolen can be seen, as well as the mountain range on the north side of the Lysefjord, which blocks the view of the large Lyngsvatnet and Sandvatnet on the border between Sandnes and Hjelmeland municipalities, and the magnificent mountains further inwards towards Lysekammen in the northeast.
When visiting the Kjerag massif, it is crucial to exercise caution and respect the environment. The mountain can be hazardous, and there have been several difficult rescue operations and loss of life on the rock face. By following the established trails and avoiding unnecessary risks, one can enjoy a spectacular view and a unique experience of Norway’s majesty in the Lysefjord.
