Stavanger: Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch

Stavanger’s famous Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, draws thousands eager to gaze over Lysefjorden’s stunning cliffs. This particular tour offers a standout way to experience it—away from the busy crowds and overrun trails. Instead of taking the usual path, you’ll follow a secret route discovered by local guides, starting with a peaceful canoe across Revsvatnet lake before tackling a scenic hike through diverse landscapes. The experience is capped with a well-deserved packed lunch from Villa Rosehagen, a historic Norwegian restaurant.

What I really love about this tour is how personal and authentic it feels. First, the guides are all highly experienced locals who know the terrain intimately. They focus on safety, sharing interesting tidbits about the trail, the wildlife, and local culture, all delivered with enthusiasm. Second, the absence of crowds is striking—many reviews mention that they felt like they had the mountain to themselves, which makes the experience more peaceful and special. One reviewer even praised guide Stefan for going “above and beyond” with his knowledge and care, making the tough parts feel manageable.

A possible consideration is the physical challenge involved. The hike is described as moderate to challenging, with some scrambling over rocky terrain. If you’re not used to regular hiking, or have a severe fear of heights, this trip might be more demanding. It’s important to note that the trail isn’t suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women, and good fitness is recommended since the hike demands stamina and agility.

This tour offers a more intimate connection to Norway’s rugged nature and the chance to see the fjord from a different angle. It’s not the cheapest option, but the inclusion of canoeing, lunch, and a personalized guide makes it a strong value for those looking for a memorable adventure instead of just another tourist photo op.

Key Points / Takeaways

Hidden trail for fewer crowds: A lesser-known route rediscovered by locals offers an intimate experience.
Canoe across Revsvatnet: A peaceful, scenic start away from busy trails, with safety and instruction provided.
Expert local guides: Guides like Stefan and Erlend bring knowledge, safety, and a friendly touch, enhancing your trip.
Diverse landscapes and some scrambling: Expect rocky terrain, varied scenery, and a good workout.
Excellent food experience: A packed lunch from Villa Rosehagen with dietary accommodations available.
Limited group size: Small groups of up to 8 people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

If you’re dreaming of seeing the iconic Preikestolen—that sheer cliff rising 604 meters above Lysefjorden—without the throngs of selfie-takers, this tour might just be your perfect match. Instead of the crowded path that most visitors take, you’ll follow an almost-secret trail, discovered and restored by local guides, offering a more peaceful, authentic Norwegian outdoor adventure.

The experience kicks off with a relaxing canoe ride across Revsvatnet, a serene lake that sets a tranquil tone for the day. No rushing crowds, no waiting in line—just paddling gently with a guide leading the way. Once ashore, the real adventure begins: a scenic hike through varied landscapes, including rocky scrambles and lush forest sections. This isn’t a stroll in the park; it’s a rewarding challenge for active travelers, with some uphill sections that demand a good level of fitness.

What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and personal touch. Local guides like Stefan or Erlend know every inch of the trail and are passionate about sharing their knowledge. They’ll point out edible plants, talk about Norwegian wildlife, and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. Several reviews emphasize how guides like Allan and Lina go above and beyond—offering to take photos, sharing stories, and making the hike memorable. Plus, a bonus: your group is small, often just 8 people, so you get plenty of attention and flexibility.

One thing to consider is the physical nature of the hike. It’s not suitable for absolute beginners or those with severe fears of heights. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, and the total hike lasts about 3.5 hours, with an additional hour for canoeing. If you’re fit and active, you’ll find this route very satisfying—an honest workout with incredible rewards.

And speaking of rewards—the panoramic views from Preikestolen are spectacular, worth every bead of sweat. The team will encourage you to take your time, enjoy your packed lunch from Villa Rosehagen, and soak in the scenery. The experience concludes with a 2.5-hour descent, leaving you tired but full of memories.

From the reviews, it’s clear that value for money is high, especially considering the included transportation, canoeing, lunch, and guided expertise. Some reviewers even mention that guides like Allan and Erlend bring genuine passion to their work, making the experience feel more like a shared adventure than a commercial tour.

Key Points / Takeaways

Custom, secret trail: Offers privacy and a connection to nature away from tourist crowds.
Canoeing as an introduction: Sets a peaceful, scenic tone at the start of your day.
Small groups: Up to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
Guided by local experts: Guides like Stefan or Erlend are knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious.
Diverse terrain: Rocky scrambling, lush forests, and panoramic fjord views.
All-inclusive value: Transport, canoe, lunch, and gear included, making it a hassle-free day.

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The Unique Itinerary

The day begins with your pickup from one of twelve convenient locations in Stavanger—options like the Clarion Hotel, Frogner House, or even the historic St. Petri Church. The transportation is well-organized, and you’ll be driven in a comfortable vehicle to the basecamp. The ride itself offers a chance to get excited about what lies ahead.

Before hitting the trail, you’ll stop at Villa Rosehagen, a charming Norwegian restaurant, to pick up your packed lunch. This isn’t just a sandwich in a plastic bag; many reviews mention the quality and thoughtfulness of the lunch, which includes local specialties and dietary accommodations if requested in advance. Having a meal from a historic local spot adds an extra layer of authenticity.

Next, it’s off to Revsvatnet, where you’ll pick up life vests and paddles for the canoe ride. The guide will give clear instructions about paddling and safety, and whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a complete novice, you’ll feel confident. The peaceful lake crossing is a highlight—silent except for the gentle splash of paddles and the occasional birdcall.

Once ashore, the hike begins. The trail, rediscovered by a pioneering local guide, is almost exclusively yours. It winds through a variety of landscapes: rocky slopes, forested sections, and open viewpoints. You’ll encounter some scrambling, which adds adventure but also requires a bit of agility. It’s a trail that rewards hikers with a sense of discovery—feeling like you’ve uncovered a secret route.

What to Expect During the Hike

Expect a pace that allows for rest, photos, and snacks. The guides prioritize safety but also want you to enjoy the natural beauty. Several reviews highlight how guides like Erlend and Stefan take care to share interesting facts about the surroundings, including Norwegian flora and fauna, and even edible plants.

The trail’s highlight is the viewpoint at Preikestolen, perched high above Lysefjorden. The cliff face is dramatic, and the expansive fjord below provides a breathtaking backdrop. Many reviewers mention how the views from this hidden trail are superior to those from the crowded main path, partly because you’re not surrounded by other travelers. One reviewer even notes that the views from a secret spot they visited during the hike offered an unobstructed panorama of the fjord, unlike the partially obstructed view from the main popular route.

After some rest and your packed lunch, you’ll spend time soaking in the scenery—perhaps taking additional photos or just enjoying the moment. The return hike takes about 2.5 hours, downhill and manageable for active hikers prepared for rocky terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want more than just a quick snapshot of Preikestolen. If you’re comfortable with a moderate to challenging hike and want to escape the crowds, this is perfect. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate authentic local guides and personalized attention in a small group.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or have mobility issues, this might not suit you. The rocky terrain and elevation changes require a reasonable level of fitness and confidence on uneven surfaces.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $273 per person, this tour offers a lot—transportation, a guided hike, canoeing, a quality packed lunch, and a small group experience. Reviews from past participants note the guides’ passion and the exclusivity of the trail, which add to the overall value. Considering the personalized experience and the included activities, this price is quite reasonable compared to the typical crowded hike.

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Final Thoughts

This tour stands out for its combination of adventure, serenity, and local expertise. You’ll experience Norway’s rugged beauty in a way few other visitors do, with the added convenience of logistics taken care of. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a memorable, authentic day outside Stavanger that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.

In summary, if you’re after a peaceful, challenging hike with spectacular views, and you appreciate guided insights into Norwegian nature and culture, this experience is well worth considering. The small group size, personalized approach, and unique trail make it a standout option for those craving a genuine outdoor adventure.

FAQ

How physically demanding is this tour?
The hike is moderate to challenging, with some rocky scrambling. It’s suitable for people who are active and comfortable with a good cardio workout. It’s not recommended for complete beginners or those with severe fears of heights.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation from Stavanger, a guided hike, canoeing across Revsvatnet, technical gear, a small snack and hot berry juice, and a packed lunch from Villa Rosehagen.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour operator asks for advance notice of any dietary restrictions so they can prepare your packed lunch accordingly.

What’s the group size?
Small groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone under 100 cm (3 ft 3 in) tall. The terrain and physical effort require a certain level of fitness.

What about weather considerations?
Norwegian weather can change quickly. Check the forecast and dress in layers. Rainproof jackets and sturdy hiking boots are advisable; gear for rent can be inquired about.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience runs about 9 hours, starting with pickup in Stavanger. The actual hiking and canoeing take approximately 6 hours, with additional time for transportation and breaks.

Would you recommend this experience?
Absolutely, if you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic way to see Preikestolen, and you’re comfortable with active outdoor pursuits. It’s a memorable way to connect with Norway’s natural beauty away from the crowds.