The Lysefjord
Set inland from the seaport of Stavanger, Lysefjord is home to some of Norway’s best bucket-list hikes and unforgettable fjord cruises.
Lysefjord is located on the west coast of Norway, near the seaport city of Stavanger, and stretches for 42km through the Ryfylke region. Prepare to marvel at its deep blue waters flanked by towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations.
Lysefjord was shaped over thousands of years by ice, pressure and time, leaving behind some of Norway’s most striking geological landmarks. High above the water sits Kjeragbolten, a great boulder wedged between the cliffs, while further along stands Preikestolen, the famous Pulpit Rock. This flat ledge of stone is suspended 604m above the fjord, creating a natural viewing platform. People travel from across the world to stand at its edge. We’ve always known why.
One of the best ways to experience Lysefjord is on a fjord cruise, where you can appreciate the scale of the cliffs and the stillness of the waters up close. Most large cruise ships cannot enter, as a low bridge marks the fjord’s narrow opening. But our smaller ships pass beneath it with ease, allowing us to sail deep into Lysefjord – taking you where others simply cannot go.
Alongside its crystal-clear waters and mighty granite cliffs, Lysefjord has a rich history of Viking settlements, as well as national importance due to its contribution to Norway’s energy sector. On every Hurtigruten cruise you can attend onboard talks and lectures about the places you’ll visit from our Expedition Team. On our Inner Fjords Explorer or North Cape Line from Hamburg voyages, that means hearing about Lysefjord from the people who know it best.
The history and geology of Lysefjord
Lysefjorden, as we call it in Norwegian, was formed during the last Ice Age, approximately 10,000 years ago, when colossal glaciers carved deep valleys into the landscape. The result is the striking topography we see today, characterised by sheer outcrops and deep blue waters.
‘Lyse’ means ‘bright’ in Old Norse – a fitting description for the light-coloured granite cliffs that rise from the fjord.
Archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with early settlers relying on the bounty of the waters and surrounding forests. Later, the fjord was an important trade route for the Vikings, who navigated its waters in their longships. Today, remnants of this rich history can be found in the ancient rock carvings and historical sites that dot the landscape.
Lysefjord is also known for its unique geology, with fascinating rocks and easily visible stratified layers that tell the story of the Earth's geological past.
The fjord’s most famous landmark is Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a distinctive flat-topped cliff formed through a combination of glacial erosion and tectonic activity. Natural forces also helped create the nearby Kjeragbolten. Glaciers deposited the large boulder in a crevasse on Kjerag Mountain – where it has remained wedged ever since.
The best things to do in Lysefjord
From scenic cruising to world-famous hikes, these are our top activities in Lysefjord.
1. Take a Lysefjord cruise
The captivating beauty of Lysefjord is best experienced from the water. Sailing into the fjord by ship, or getting a closer look in a RIB, allows you to truly appreciate the fjord’s natural features. Travelling on the water gives you a panoramic view of the fjord’s shoreline and granite walls, and access to its deepest interior without traversing mountain roads.
You can admire the surrounding scenery at ship-level as we cruise into the fjord on our Inner Fjords Explorer cruise from Bergen, or on our North Cape Line voyage from Hamburg.
2. Stand atop Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
One of Lysefjord's best-known highlights is the hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). This famous rock formation towers 604m above the fjord, offering bird’s-eye views. The ascent to the top is about an 8km round trip and takes roughly 4 to 5 hours to complete. From the starting point at Preikestolen Fjellstue mountain lodge, the well-marked trail winds through patched forests and rocky terrain, providing staggering vistas along the way.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding mountains from Pulpit Rock. The effort is well worth it.
3. Hike to Kjeragbolten
Kjeragbolten – or ‘the boulder of Kjerag Mountain’ – sits 984m above Lysefjord and offers a challenging hike for keen walkers. This unusual rock formation is a popular spot for the adventurous. Expect steep ascents and rocky paths, but the views of the fjord and surrounding landscapes make it an exhilarating experience.
The trek is typically a 5- to 6-hour round-trip and should only be attempted in the warmer months, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the boulder is unparalleled.
4. Climb the world's longest wooden staircase in Flørli
On the south side of Lysefjord is Flørli, a tiny, roadless village accessible only by ferry or on foot. It is popular with tourists for its wooden staircase – the longest in the world – comprised of 4,444 steps that lead up the mountain. Following the path of old water pipelines and railway tracks, the staircase is both fascinating and exhilarating. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to get up and down, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
After you've finished, enjoy some refreshment at the Power Café, housed in Flørli's decommissioned power plant.
(Image copyright: Thomas Rasmus Skaug - VisitNorway.com)
5. Soak up the atmosphere in Lysebotn
At the end of Lysefjord, the tiny village of Lysebotn – home to just 13 residents – is a gateway to the fjord. This hamlet is surrounded by mountains, and you’ll love basking in its peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll by the waterfront, where you can admire the traditional wooden houses and enjoy the views.
But getting to Lysebotn is an adventure in itself. The village sits at the base of Lysevegen, one of Norway’s most jaw-dropping mountain roads. The drive features 27 heart-pounding hairpin bends and a dramatic 900-metre elevation change.
When is the best time to visit Lysefjord?
Lysefjord is a year-round destination with each season offering its own unique charms.
Spring
Spring is a lovely time to visit Lysefjord, as the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers, apple blossom and verdant greenery. The melting snow creates impressive waterfalls, making it a great time for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of the fjord. See it for yourself on our Inner Fjords Explorer itinerary, with sailings in April and May.
Summer
The summer months are the most popular time to visit Lysefjord as the weather is generally mild, and the hiking trails and scenic routes are fully accessible. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, such as hiking to Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten. Visit Lysefjord in summer on the North Cape Line voyage from Hamburg.
Autumn
Autumn brings a gorgeous display of golden colours, making it an extra-special time to visit. The crisp air and fewer visitors create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for scenic cruising, hiking and all-round friluftsliv, our word for time spent outdoors in nature. Experience Lysefjord in autumn on our Inner Fjords Explorer cruise, with departures in September 2027.
Winter
Winter transforms Lysefjord into a magical wonderland, with snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls. It’s still possible to go hiking but engaging a local guide is recommended due to weather conditions.
Discover the heart of Norway's fjords
Our ships have sailed these fjords for more than 130 years. Step aboard and see Norway the way it's meant to be seen – from the water.
Explore more Norwegian fjords
Geirangerfjord
If you’re yearning for the beauty of Norway’s iconic fjords in a nutshell, we don’t think there’s a better example than this gem.
Hjørundfjord
A fjord surrounded by soaring mountain peaks and far from the crowds, it’s no wonder this dramatic fjord is a national treasure.
Nordfjord
Stretching for 106 kilometres, Nordfjord is the sixth-longest fjord in Norway and one of the longest in Sogn og Fjordane County.