Preikestolen

Rated as one of the world’s natural wonders, and the most breathtaking viewing platform, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is a must-see attraction for visitors to Norway.

It was not until the athlete Thomas Peter Randulf first noticed Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) that the plateau was given its name and began its journey to fame. While on board the ship Oscar II, Randulf spotted the enormous plateau hanging above Lysefjorden. It was on that boat trip that he decided to conquer the massive flat rock above the fjord, which is how Preikestolen became one of Norway’s most well known tourist attractions.

A lot of enhancements have taken place since then, such as the building of a modern mountain lodge, upgrading the road and parking lot, as well as improving the hiking trail. Also, the number of visitors and hikers has increased tremendously.

The nearly flat shelf is in the shape of a square, measuring approximately 25 x 25 meters. Geologists believe it was frost that shaped the plateau this way 10 000 years ago, as the edge of the glacier ended just above the rock. Water froze in the cracks of the mountain, forcing giant rocks down the sides along with the glacier. Today, there is a huge crack you must pass to get out to the edge of Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). Still, there is no reason to worry about the plateau falling down, as geologists promise that it is safe to walk on.

If you wish to experience reaching the top of Preikestolen, and perhaps even sit on the very edge of the plateau, there is only one option: taking the hike to the top. Following the steep and narrow trail to the top will add the joy of walking through nature, while experiencing a thrilling wow-moment when reaching the summit. 
Experience the thrill on Preikestolen & Norway in a nutshell® tour (3 days).
Take the express bus from Stavanger to Preikestolen parking (day trip)

However, it is also possible to see Preikestolen from below, just like Thomas Peter Randulf once did. The beautiful Lysefjorden reaches 40 km between steep mountains almost 1000 meters above the water’s surface. There are multiple companies in Norway offering boat trips on the Lysefjord. You can even combine a hiking trip with a boat trip, a unique opportunity to see the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from the bottom as well as from the top.