Hello everyone! My name is Lisa – the travel blogger and writer behind Fjords and Beaches (www.fjordsandbeaches.com & @fjordsandbeaches). Welcome to my travel article on the jaw-dropping Pulpit Rock of Norway.
I grew up in Aurland by the Norwegian Fjords. Growing up in a beautiful area gave me the chance to meet travellers from all over the world at an early age. People travel from all over to see the fjords. I remember being in awe of the places and cultures these people came from.
My love for travel was influenced by the area I grew up in and it later inspired my blog name: Fjords and Beaches. I am now based in Bergen – the second largest city in Norway and only a couple hours from the fjords. Sharing my adventures and tips on my blog is something I cherish.
Hiking to Pulpit Rock in Norway
Pulpit Rock is such a breathtaking place and a hike I strongly recommend. I have been to the Lysefjord (the fjord below the rock) several times but only made the actual Preikestolen hike once. The place is not only special because it’s well known – you recognise it the second you see it – but also because there is no better view of the fjord than from Preikestolen.
The hike takes around two hours each way and is not too strenuous in my opinion. However, I have been told by many to make sure to note that I am Norwegian and have grown up hiking around the fjords. So, my opinion of “not too strenuous” may vary from the opinions of visitors to Norway. In this video below you can see the hike and make up your own mind!
Incredible View from Pulpit Rock
The view from the top of Pulpit Rock is absolutely spectacular! It’s hard to even describe it. The Lysefjord below is such a beautiful part of Norway and seeing it from the Pulpit Rock platform so high above the fjord itself is absolutely incredible. It will definitely take your breath away when you go.
Just to note: if you are afraid of heights you may feel a little nervous and light-headed at the top. Even if you are comfortable with heights this platform can still make you feel uneasy. So stick to the back of the platform where the view is still great and you are safer than being right on the edge.
Where to Stay at Pulpit Rock
Preikestolen BaseCamp is the best place to stay when hiking Pulpit Rock. This will give you the opportunity of waking up at the trailhead and with the chance to make an early start (which I recommend). Alternatively, you can hike in the afternoon/evening and stay at the BaseCamp after the hike.
The nearest city is Stavanger. This is a wonderful city but as it takes a while (and a ferry) to get from there to Pulpit Rock, I recommend staying at Preikestolen BaseCamp at least the night before or after the hike.
Best Time of Year to Do the Hike
The best time to hike Pulpit Rock is late spring, summer and early autumn. The rest of the year, the path is likely to be covered in snow and you can’t reach the top without a guide/good gear. May or June is a beautiful time but I also suggest early September when the crowds have started to disappear (keep in mind this is a popular hike and will always be busy).
Need to Know Before you Go
Some key tips for hiking Pulpit Rock that I recommend is to plan for extra time as the trail can get busy. I also recommend getting up an hour earlier than you think you should and starting the hike just after breakfast.
As mentioned, it’s a very busy hike and the earlier you go, the better. I also highly recommend that you (of course) wear proper shoes and bring bandaids in case you get blisters on the way. There is nothing worse than walking with sore blisters and I have learned this the hard way. Apart from that, just admire one of the most incredible views in all of Norway!
