a unique hiking destination!
42 kilometer long fjord
The Lysefjord
The Lysefjord is a perfect hiking destination. The most known hikes in the area are Preikestolen and Kjerag – two of Norway’s biggest natural icons. They are part of the longer Lysefjorden Rundt trail, marked by the Stavanger Hiking Association, circumnavigating the whole fjord.
The Lysefjord is located in Forsand municipality, Rogaland county, Fjord-Norway. The 42-kilometer-long fjord was originally a river valley, created by creeks and rivers eroding through an old plain landscape. Through a series of ice ages, this valley was carved out by moving glaciers and transformed into its current deep U-shape. At its deepest, the bottom of the Lysefjord measures 457 meters below sea level. Granite mountain walls tower above the Lysefjord – some places they are 1,000 meters high.
Explore by boat
A boat trip on the Lysefjord is an experience that provides many visitors with long lasting memories. Glide through the fjord while gazing upon the steep mountain walls. You will pass waterfalls, colonies of harbor seals, also called fjord seals (phoca vitulina), domesticated goats and secluded farms. Several ferries service the Lysefjord, year-round. During summer, the tourist ferry has two daily departures between Lauvvik and Lysebotn. By using the ferry, you can combine fjord sightseeing with a hike, or other activities. Several local tour companies offer guided activities, like hiking, kayaking, sailing or RIB-boat tours.
Lysebotn
At the end of the Lysefjord, where sea water gives way for mighty inland mountains, lies Lysebotn. Since the 1990s, this cozy town, with only 10 permanent inhabitants, has attracted BASE jumpers from all corners of the world. In recent years, many so-called ‘extreme’ outdoor events have taken place in Lysebotn and other places in the Lysefjord. Some are pure running/marathon events – like Lysefjorden Inn, Flørlitrappene Opp and Preikestolen
Festivals and Marathon
Marathons, or combining different types of sports are common in Lysefjorden – for example Tripp Trapp Triathlon (kayaking, running, biking) and Rockman Swimrun (running, swimming). We even have an uphill roller ski event – Lysebotn Opp.
Every September, local and visiting hikers come together at the Lysefjord Hiking Festival. This festival seeks a more slow-pace profile and welcomes people wanting to combine a good hike with local food and learning about the cultural history of the Lysefjord.
The Economic Impact of Preikestolen Visitors
Preikestolen, one of Norway's most iconic natural wonders, draws thousands of visitors from around the world every year. In the summer of 2022, 348,000 people hiked to this stunning mountain plateau. These visitors had a significant economic impact on the region, with...
How to avoid the crowds at Preikestolen
Are you ready for an adventure at Preikestolen? Most people will tell you to hike early to beat the crowds, but did you know that the best time to go is actually in the evening? While everyone else is having dinner, you can enjoy the tranquility of the mountain and...
Good hygiene practices are of all time
The Lysefjord is certified as a sustainable destination. We highly value the health of our guests, the employees in the tourism industry, and the locals. The pandemic has put extra focus on hygiene routines, at work, and when we travel. These routines have become...