The Stavanger Region offers varied hikes. Some are short and easy, like most of the hikes in the Jæren area, which has little inclination. Hikes to The Pulpit rock (Preikestolen), Kjerag, Bynuten, and Månafossen present bigger rewards, but are challenging in length and/or type of terrain.
Towering highlights – hikes to remember
The Pulpit Rock (604 metres) (Preikestolen) is probably the most recognisable natural attraction in Norway. The hike to Preikestolen offers unforgettable views, with an easily accessed path. The hike begins at the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge, and it takes around two hours to reach the top. There are good transport connections from Stavanger to the departure point for the hike, by ferry and bus or car.
To see a 360-degree view of the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) click here.
Kjerag is another spectacular hike in the area. The big boulder wedged between two rock walls 1,000 metres above the Lysefjord, with its mountain walls dropping vertically to the fjord below, is an impressive sight. This suits adventurous hikers. The trail from the starting point at Øygardstøl is marked, and one should allow four to six hours for a round trip in physically demanding terrain.
Remember to bring proper hiking boots, good clothing, food and water for both hikes. The season is from May to September.
Hiking in Jæren – coastline and open landscape
The Jæren beaches and coastline hikes are both easy and scenic, with a natural environment offering almost flat routes and comfortable surfaces for all hikers.
The hike from Vigdel Beach south to Bore Beach is an easy walk with sand/grass surface and no inclination. Another option on Jæren is the coastal hike from Viste Bay to Tungenes Lighthouse, now a museum and cultural scene, on the northernmost point on the Jæren area mainland.
Other recommended hikes
Distances between coastline and mountains are short in the Stavanger Region, and easy to cover by car. If you seek steeper hikes offering different levels of challenge, head inland.
A relatively easy walk is to the Mor Norge Statue (Mother Norway). Suitable for the entire family, this hike offers good trails leading up to what people refer to as the "most lonely" statue in the Stavanger region.
Close to Stavanger centre, the Three Lakes hike starts from Mosvannet Camping and takes in the lakes Mosvannet, Store Stokkavann and Hålandsvannet. With low inclination and gravel paths, this 21-kilometre route offers great opportunities for bird- and wildlife-spotting along the way.
A popular two-hour hike will take you to Månafossen Waterfall and Mån Farm. Please note that this hike is steep in the beginning. Ropes and railings aid your ascent from the southeast bank of the river, where the hike starts. From the path you will have a fine view over Månafossen Waterfall, with its free fall of 92 metres.