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 a total expenditure of 1 billion Norwegian kroner during June, July, and August.
The Preikestolen Foundation has conducts thorough guest surveys annualy, providing valuable insights into the profiles of visitors. The average age is 34, and most are Europeans. There is roughly an equal distribution of men and women, and guests typically travel with companions. They mainly arrive at Preikestolen by car, rental car, or camper and spend an average of three days in the Ryfylke/North Jæren region, with accommodation in the Stavanger area before and after their visit.
It’s also worth noting that 36% of guests visit or plan to visit other parts of Lysefjorden, and a whopping 91% are satisfied or very satisfied with their experience after their visit to Preikestolen.
Regarding expenditure, data from Innovation Norway reveals that Norwegian tourists spent an average of 990 kroner per day, while foreign visitors spent 1,240 kroner per day in 2019. By combining this information with the number of visitors and their average length of stay, we can estimate that the Preikestol traffic generated over 1 billion Norwegian kroner in spending in Rogaland during the summer months of 2022.
The economic significance of the Preikestolen attraction is therefore clear. The revenues have positive ripple effects on hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and local businesses, contributing to the strengthening of the region’s economy. With Preikestolen as a cornerstone of tourism in Ryfylke and North Jæren, it is evident that this natural wonder plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth in the area.
