Hiking along the Lysefjord
Hike the most spectacular parts of the Lysefjord.
4-5 days
June-September
1 ferry
Activity level: very high
Hiking the complete 100-kilometer-long Lysefjorden Rundt Trail is very challenging and time-consuming. Although a fantastic adventure, most hikers will not have the time or energy to hike everything in one go. And that is not necessary either! We highly recommend hiking the different stages as day trips, or “ticking” them off over several years.
However, if you are interested in a multi-day hike along the Lysefjord, combining the best stretches of the Lysefjorden Rundt Trail, this is your itinerary. Preikestolen, Flørli, and Kjerag are just some of the highlights. Hiking along the Lysefjord in 4-5 days provides world-class fjord views and a real challenge!
Below, you will find our recommended itinerary. Scroll further down for inside tips about detours and other attractions and activities to discover along this route.
Høllesliheia - Preikestolen BaseCamp
This hike will take your breath away! If you can only pick 1 hike in the Lysefjord area, this brand-new trail absolutely competes with Preikestolen. Several hundred meters above sea level, the trail winds along several mountain cliffs and gorges, including Skjerajuvet and Fantahålå – through stunning landscapes past countless panoramic viewpoints. If you pay attention, you will find the cool Fantapytten – Lysefjord’s own “infinity pool”. The trail ends at Preikestolen BaseCamp, the perfect location to start the next day hike to Preikestolen and beyond.
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Preikestolen - Songesand
This demanding stage, with some scrambling sections, entails multiple highlights, starting with Preikestolen, the ‘Jewel of the Lysefjord’, towering 604 meters above sea level providing you with world-famous views. The trail passes spectacular Hengjanenibbå and the legendary Hengjane Farm. From “Hoppet” you can see the entire Lysefjord. After descending down to Bratteli, having hiked 14 km in challenging terrain, you can choose to take the ferry from Flørli. Alternatively, you can continue to Bakken Gard (2 km further), or even continue all the way to Songesand (another 2 km extra).
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Flørli - Langavatn
Hiking the world’s longest wooden staircase is an experience of a lifetime. 4,444 steps will lead you up from the fjord to 742 meters above sea level, in just 2 km, offering mighty views of the Lysefjord and the village of Flørli along the way. Suddenly, you are in the mountains. It is a very long hike to Langavatn. Start early and be prepared for a lot of elevation gain! The trail leads through very varied terrain. Exposed bedrock, sprinkled with boulders from the last ice age, bogs, and ponds. It’s a tough hike with a true wilderness experience. Come prepared.
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Langavatn - Kjerag - Lysebotn
Kjeragbolten, also called «Majesty of the Lysefjord», is wedged 984 meters above sea level. Standing on the boulder provides a real adrenaline kick, but nature along the trail is so spectacular, that the rock information itself is only one of the highlights. From Langavatn, the trip first goes over bare rock, before you reach the edge of the mountain plateau, overlooking the fjord, providing both horizontal and vertical vistas. Having finished this stage, you have come all the way to the end of the fjord – the cozy town of Lysebotn is surrounded by mighty mountain walls.
BOOKING / MORE INFO
Detours, attractions and activities
In general, we recommend staying an extra night in Forsand, before you start your multi-day adventure. Gjøysa Gard, Lysefjorden Marina, Haukali 333, Lysefjorden Hyttegrend, and The Bolder offer accommodation.
We highly recommend staying a night in Lysebotn, so you do not have to hurry on your last day of hiking, and can take some well-deserved rest in beautiful Lysebotn. Lysefjorden Lodge, Hauane Bed & Breakfast, and Kjerag Lysebotn Camping offer accommodation.
Although this itinerary is a shortened version of the longer Lysefjorden Rundt Trail, it is still a demanding hike. It can be smart to have an extra resting day mid-way, for example at Bakken Gard, Songesand Camp or in Flørli.
There are multiple options to extend your hike along the Lysefjord with extra stages/days of hiking. You can find the full overview of all Lysefjorden Rundt stages here:
Practical information
When hiking this complete itinerary, we strongly recommend starting in the west end and hiking towards the east. This way, you will have the best views. Also, you will hike the steepest hills up (including the Flørli staircase), while you will hike the long, slack hills down.
We recommend parking your car in Forsand, and arranging a taxi to the start of the trail at The Bolder Skylodges.
The hike from Preikestolen to Songesand is very long. It can be smart to hike to Bratteli and take the ferry to Flørli. However, you will need to start the hike early to catch the ferry (don’t forget to book it). Alternatively, you can continue to Bakken Gard and spend the night there. If you want to continue to Songesand, please note that the stretch between Bakken and Songesand goes through a challenging scree field.
The last stretch from Langavatn towards Lysebotn ends at Kjerag Parking. From here, you can take the shuttle bus down to Lysebotn.
From Lysebotn, you can take the ferry back to Forsand. Don’t forget to book the ferry well in advance.
A video impression
We are excited to share our video impression of the Lysefjord, showcasing its diverse landscapes from rustic settlements to thrilling hiking destinations like Preikestolen, Kjerag, and Flørli. Join us on a journey through this 42-kilometer marvel, rich in history and adventure, and discover the enchanting allure of Lysefjord.”
Recommended Lysefjord Itineraries
Slow travel in the Lysefjord
Travel slow and enjoy the good life at local small-scale venues.
Active in the Lysefjord
For true adventure seekers, the Lysefjord offers a wide variety of water and mountain activities.
Hiking along the Lysefjord
Hike the most spectacular parts of the Lysefjord. Combine the hiking icons with rarely used trails.
Highlights of the Lysefjord
Cruise through the Lysefjord and hike the classics: Preikestolen, Flørli, Kjerag
Lysefjord visitor guide
As you experience this majestic landscape, remember that your actions hold the power to protect and celebrate our unique destination for all who follow in your footsteps.
Respect Nature
Be Part of the Local Community
Stay Safe
