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A few words of introduction for the uninitiated
Preikestolen, one of the most famous Norwegian attractions, visited annually by 100 to 300 tourists, has become the goal of our trip. Just a few days ago, on September 8, the team of Radio Wataha decided to check if it was really worth it;) The impressive 604 m high cliff overlooking the Lysefjord is considered to be one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world. Finished with a flat rock shelf, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is in the local tradition called Hyvlatonnå, which in the literal
translated means pulpit. The area of this plateau is 25 x 25 meters. Her discovery is attributed to an athlete named Thomas Peter Randulf, who was the first to spot her in 1900 from a ship sailing on the Lysefjord. It is thanks to him that this unusual, almost rectangular rock formation gained fame and its stunning "career" began.
Let's go…
We start our hike to Preikestolen from the parking lot, which is located right next to the trail leading to the destination. For those who are not properly prepared for the road, there is a mountain equipment rental. In addition, there is a cafe next to the car park, a souvenir shop, sportswear and, of course, toilets.
We set off on the trail. Initially, we walk along a rocky path leading quite steeply up. Then it turns into stairs made of stones.
After about 15 minutes, we come to the first expropriation, from where you can see the parking lot from which we set off and a beautiful panorama of the area.
We keep going up until at some point the landscape changes dramatically. We reach vast peat bogs through which wooden footbridges lead. The scenery is fabulous.
Behind them, another climb up the stone stairs begins. This is probably the most demanding stretch of the road. Then you can enjoy the breathtaking views, because it is the greatest elevation we had to overcome. Along the way, in addition to many compatriots whom we greet, we also come across charming lakes and a cottage where you can find shelter in case of danger, accident or bad weather. Access to the key is possible after making a phone call to the number indicated on the information boards.
The ends justify the means
We are getting closer to the goal of our journey, although in this case the road itself is our goal. The space giving a sense of freedom, the fjord with the surrounding rocky slopes creating fairy-tale landscapes, and the beautiful weather we encountered give a sense of inner satisfaction and solace. It's like a balm for our senses. Preikestolen is just around the corner... After a short rest to enjoy the views and fill our belly, we continue our journey. The excitement is building as that fabled destination we're heading to seems to be just around the corner. It's getting more and more beautiful nearer and nearer. The trail begins to lead along a piece of the slope and you can feel it
altitude at which we are. The motorboats moving down the bay below seem to be just small points gliding over the blue, smooth surface of the water. It is beautiful! Moments later, we see the top of the Preikestolen cliff, flat as a table. Is it here? - we ask ourselves. Yes! We're here, we've made it.
In the pulpit
Now it's just joy and soaking up stunning views. We enjoy the moment and capture it in photos. One would like to shout: "Wait forever!". For those who like height
and the abyss is a real paradise. For the more fearful - heart palpitations. We definitely feel like in paradise here. Almost immediately we decide to go even higher to look at the plateau from above. It actually makes an impression.
We like this place so much that we want to spend the night here. Wake up on Preikestolen - sounds great. Due to inadequate preparation, however, we give up this idea. The area that at first glance seemed ideal for pitching a tent up close turns out to be slushy and wet, and the soil thickness is too small for a stable anchoring of the pins. We are not specialists in high mountain camping, so common sense suggests to let go this time. Nothing by force. After all, it was supposed to be a pleasure, not proving to you or ourselves that we can make it. Contrary to what one might think, we are not disappointed. On the contrary - a desire
and motivation to come back to this place. Thanks to the tent "failure" we have what for.
The entire route (in one direction) is 3,8 km long and can be covered, according to reports by some internet users, in an hour. The walking time indicated on the map at the lower parking lot is 2 hours. It took us a bit longer (2h30min), because we were walking at a really slow pace with many stops for photos and live coverage that you could watch on a regular basis. We consider the route easy, but due to the uneven terrain and stones, it is definitely worth wearing good mountain boots with the right sole. It is easy to slip on stones, especially when they are wet. For this, windproof and waterproof outerwear will be the best, as the conditions in the mountains are changeable. A hat and a headlamp may also be useful if you are to be caught in the dark. Of course, be sure to take food and water with you, because there will be no possibility of buying it on the trail. Fortunately, it's not Kasprowy;)
Worth seeing for yourself
We hope that the report from the expedition encouraged you to get Preikestolen and you will want to feel what we experienced on your own skin. It is worth seeing this majestic cliff with your own eyes, because the photos, although beautiful, cannot replace it. The road to Preikestolen - we recommend it! and the sea to see you on your way to Preikestolen
