PLAN YOUR STAY IN THE LYSEFJORD

The 42-km-long Lysefjord is one of the most scenic and diverse fjords in Norway. There is a range of attractions and activities to choose from. On this page, we have gathered our recommended itineraries, information about hiking to Preikestolen, Kjerag, Flørli, and lots of other gems, cycling around the Lysefjord, and more. You will also find our travel planner here, with information about accommodation, activities, restaurants, and transportation. Our highlight videos show you both the famous landmarks, as the hidden treasures of the Lysefjord, for you to discover.

Map Lysefjord

Click on the map for a high resolution version.

A journey through the Lysefjord

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 

3-5 days

May-October

2 ferries

Activity level: high

Highlights of the Lysefjord

Day-hikes to Lysefjord’s classic hiking icons: Preikestolen, Flørli, Kjerag

An itinerary for the active hiker who wants to combine ticking off the highlights with a fjord cruise through the entire Lysefjord.

3-6 days

May-October

3 ferries

Activity level: low

Slow down in the Lysefjord

Travel slow and enjoy the good life at local small-scale venues

Combine traveling through the wild Lysefjord, far away from the rest of the world, with spending time at authentic local accommodation sites.

6-10 days

May-October

3 ferries

Activity level: moderate to high

Active in the Lysefjord

Experience both water and mountain activities

Besides hiking the Lysefjord offers great opportunities for fjord cruises, horse-back riding, kayaking, biking, and more. 

4-5 days

June-September

1 ferry

Activity level: very high

Hiking along the Lysefjord

Hike the most spectacular parts of the Lysefjord.

Preikestolen, Flørli and Kjerag are just some of the highlights of this itinerary, which includes hiking the best stretches of the Lysefjorden Rundt Trail, providing world-class fjord views, and a real challenge!

Hiking

The Lysefjord is an eldorado for hikers. In addition to world-famous Preikestolen, Kjerag, and Flørli hikes, there are tens of kilometers of other spectacular trails. There are plenty of opportunities for those who want to stay a little longer, discover a little more, and experience magnificent nature and tranquility, off the beaten track.

You can hike the complete or parts of the Lysefjord Rundt Trail, circumnavigating the entire fjord, or choose one of our top 10 favorite day hikes. Here you will find the entire overview:

Preikestolen

Formed by melting glaciers more than 10,000 year ago, Preikestolen is the most iconic natural landmark in Norway. Atop the 604 meters high cliff, you will experience the Lysefjord and find some of the most dramatic views Fjord Norway has to offer.

Kjerag

Approx. 10.000 years ago, massive glaciers formed the Norwegian fjords and mountains, and in this process the Kjerag boulder was wedged into a mountain crevasse at 1.000 meter above sea level. The boulder offers the most amazing views over the 42 km long Lysefjorden.

Flørli

Challenge yourself and hike the world’s longest wooden staircase, reaching an elevation of 750 meters above sea-level. On the way up, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Lysefjord and surrounding mountains.

Top 10 day hikes

The Lysefjord offers some of the world’s most iconic hikes. The classics Preikestolen, Kjerag and Flørli are most known, but the 42 km long Lysefjord is also home to a wide range of other more off the beaten track hikes, all with great vistas. We have selected our local favorites for you!

Lysefjorden Rundt

Lysefjorden Rundt is one of the country’s most spectacular multi-day hiking trails. The trail connects Preikestolen, Kjerag, Flørli and a wide range of lesser-known rock formations, viewpoints, mountain farms and more.

Cycle around the fjord

Lysefjordruta

Lysefjordruta is a new bicycle route (2022) connecting all gateways, towns and attractions around the Lysefjord. Cycling around the fjord, you will experience nature in a completely different way. The landscape slowly slips by, while you can still cover fairly large areas in one day. Traveling by bicycle, it is easy to stop at viewpoints and attractions along the way.

Travel planner

In Lysefjorden you will find a number of providers in accommodation, activities and transport. Use the categories in the travel planner below to find and book your stay and experiences in the Lysefjord.

Lysefjorden is certified as a sustainable destination. All companies with an environmental certification are marked with a green tust.

Preikestolen Tourist Information info@preikestolen365.no (+47) 45 86 77 62
Kjerag Tourist Information kjerag@lysefjorden365.no (+47) 40 30 68 65
Lysebotn Tourist Information info.lysebotn@lysefjorden365.no (+47) 47 50 15 70
Jørpeland Tourist Information info@ryfylke.com (+47) 98 21 99 75
Forsand Tourist Information turistinfo@sandnes.kommune.no (+47) 90 53 60 66
overnatting

Accommodation

Here you will find an overview of different players that offer accommodation in and around the Lysefjord.
aktiviteter

Activities

Here you will find an overview of activities offered in and around the Lysefjord.
servering

F&B

Here you will find an overview of the different restaurants in and around the Lysefjord
transport

Transport

An overview of the various players that offer transport in and around the Lysefjord.

Video Series

A quick journey through the Lysefjord

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.

Duration: 4 minutes

Explore the Lysefjord: A Mini-Documentary on Norway’s Majestic Fjord of Light

Join us on a journey through Lysefjord, the gem of Ryfylke. This 40-kilometer marvel is surrounded by stunning cliffs and historical landmarks like Preikestolen, Kjerag, and Flørli. Witness how glaciers and rivers have sculpted this fjord, now a hub for farming, hydroelectric power production, and tourism.

Narrated by Ragnhild Alsvik from Jørpeland, a part of the hosting team at Flørli, the film is specially adapted for visitors interested in nature and culture.

Duration: 10 minutes

Tip: It is best to watch this film on a big(ger) screen. By clicking on the settings button in the video, you can choose subtitles in English, Norwegian, Dutch, German, Spanish, French and Italian.

Location Highlights

Experience the Lysefjord with us. We have traveled through the fjord and produced a series of videos for you, at various locations. It’s the perfect tool for helping you plan your journey. See what makes each place special and set your expectations for a memorable visit. Besides the must-see landmarks like Preikestolen, Flørli, and Kjerag, we also uncover the fjord’s hidden treasures, for you to discover!

Lauvvik

Nestled at the mouth of the Lysefjord, Lauvvik serves as a convenient and scenic starting point for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the region.

Forsand

Charming Forsand, the Lysefjords “capital”, offers a gateway to fjord kayaking, fishing, and boat tours, providing a taste of the region’s natural beauty.

Oanes

From Oanes, the iconic Preikestolen is within easy reach, and nearby, you can explore the panoramic hike to Fantapytten or the easier Sokkaknuten trail.

Høllesleiheia

The trail from Høllesliheia to Fantapytten runs close to the fjord, offering stunning views as you pass cliffs and gorges, including Skjerajuvet and Fantahålå.

Preikestolen

Nestled at the foothills of the awe-inspiring Preikestolen, Preikestolen BaseCamp offers a comfortable starting point for your hiking adventure.

Hengjane

Hengjane is a historic mountain farm, attracting tourists with its breathtaking rock formation Hengjanenibbå, and “Whisky Falls” (Hengjanefossen).

Bratteli og bakken

The Bratteli farm is known for its steep mountainsides. Neighboring Bakken farm was once home to local legend Pilt-Ola.

Songesand

Nestled midway along the Lysefjord, Songesand is a tranquil village boasting its own ferry quay and a mountain road connecting to Årdal.

Flørli

Flørli, a remote, road-less village, is known for the world’s longest wooden staircase and its rich hydroelectric power history.

Lysebotn

Lysebotn, a charming village nestled at the base of towering cliffs, is your starting point for the exhilarating Kjerag hike.

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

Choose Sustainable Alternatives