Stavanger: Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch

If you’re looking to see Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) without battling crowds or sticking to the busy main trail, this tour from Stavanger might just be your best bet. It promises a less touristy, more intimate experience with carefully curated highlights, including a peaceful canoe trip and a delicious Norwegian lunch. The idea of escaping the throngs and discovering a secret trail appealed to us, and the overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest this is an experience worth considering.

Two things stand out for us: first, the expert guides who are passionate about sharing their local knowledge and keeping everyone safe; second, the breathtaking views that come from hiking a trail few others know about. The only potential downside? This adventure requires a fair amount of fitness and comfort with heights, so it’s not suited for complete beginners or those with certain health concerns. If you’re a confident hiker craving a more authentic, quiet connection with nature, this trip could be perfect.

Key Points

• Crowd-Free Experience: Hike a lesser-known trail, avoiding the crowds common on the main route.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure safety and enrich your journey.
• Canoe + Hike Combo: Start with a peaceful canoe ride across Revsvatnet, setting a relaxed tone.
• Authentic Norwegian Lunch: Enjoy a well-prepared packed lunch from a historic restaurant.
• Moderate to Challenging Trail: Expect rocky terrain with some scrambling—great for active travelers.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What This Tour Offers

This 9-hour adventure combines outdoor activity with cultural touches, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a standard sightseeing bus tour. The experience kicks off with a pickup in Stavanger, where your local guide ensures everything runs smoothly. After roughly a 30-minute drive, you’ll stop at Villa Rosehagen, a traditional Norwegian restaurant, to collect your packed lunch—be sure to specify dietary restrictions in advance.

Next, a short drive to Preikestolen Basecamp gets you ready for the day’s main activities. Here, you’ll pick up your life vest and canoe paddles, and then head down to Revsvatnet, a serene mountain lake. The guide provides thorough safety instructions, making sure everyone is comfortable before paddling across the glassy waters, enjoying the tranquility before the hiking begins.

The Canoe Ride: A Peaceful Prelude

The canoe ride across Revsvatnet is a real highlight. It’s an hour-long peaceful paddle that adds a sense of adventure and serenity to the day. Reviewers have raved about this part, describing it as “blissful” and “so peaceful.” Even if you’re new to paddling, guides are attentive—many reviewers, even those who don’t swim, felt safe thanks to the careful instructions and helpful guides.

The canoeing sets the tone for the day: a calm, scenic interlude before tackling the more demanding parts of the hike. Expect to paddle in calm waters with beautiful mountain scenery around you, making it clear this isn’t your average day on a trail.

The Hidden Trail: Off the Beaten Path

This tour’s pièce de résistance is the secret trail—a route rediscovered by a local guide, almost entirely free of other hikers. It’s a more rugged, varied landscape than the popular main trail, with rocky scrambles and some elevation gain that demands a fair degree of fitness and comfort with heights.

Travelers consistently mention how much better this trail is compared to the more crowded routes. As one reviewer put it, “the trail is as promised, a hidden trail you wouldn’t find without your guide.” Expect to spend about 3.5 hours hiking with plenty of stops for photos, snacks, and catching your breath. The trail winds through different landscapes—dense forests, rocky outcrops, and open views—all culminating in the moment you see Preikestolen looming above Lysefjorden.

While the trail’s challenge is part of its appeal, be aware it involves some scrambling and rocky terrain. If you have a severe fear of heights, this may not be the trip for you—some sections are exposed and demanding.

Reaching Preikestolen: The Reward

After the hike, you arrive at the 604-meter-high cliff that offers one of Norway’s most iconic panoramic views. Sitting right above Lysefjorden, the sheer cliff face is awe-inspiring, and the vistas are truly unforgettable. Reviewers describe the view as “breathtaking,” and the sense of achievement after the climb makes it even more special.

Most guests take time to relax, enjoy the packed lunch, and soak in the scenery. The guide’s local insights make the experience richer—some mention tasting edible plants or learning about Norwegian culture along the way.

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The Descent and Return

The hike down takes about 2.5 hours and generally follows a well-marked trail. Reviewers note that the descent is easier than the ascent but still requires attention to footing. Once back at the parking lot, you’re driven back to Stavanger, often feeling both exhausted and exhilarated.

As one reviewer said, “exhausted but satisfied,” which captures the sense of a genuine adventure well spent. The return journey offers time to reflect on the day’s highlights and the rare opportunity to see Norway’s wilderness away from busy crowds.

Value and Practicalities

At $273 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of experience and authenticity. The cost includes a small snack and hot berry juice, canoe rental, transport, and a delicious packed lunch. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—they seem genuinely passionate, eager to share their local expertise and ensure everyone’s safety.

Compared to standard hikes or bus tours to Preikestolen, this experience offers more personal attention, a unique trail, and a peaceful canoe ride—all adding to its value. For active travelers who want a more authentic, less crowded experience with cultural touches, it’s a smart choice.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip suits fit, adventurous travelers comfortable with rocky terrain and some scrambling. It’s ideal for those who value authenticity over convenience, seeking to escape the crowds and connect more deeply with nature. If you enjoy outdoor activities like paddling and hiking, and want to see a different side of Norway’s landscape, this tour delivers.

However, it’s not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues or a severe fear of heights. It’s also a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Preikestolen in a more peaceful, authentic setting. By combining a tranquil canoe paddle with a secret trail, it allows travelers to enjoy spectacular views without the crowds and noise typical of popular routes. The presence of knowledgeable, friendly guides makes all the difference, ensuring safety and sharing local insights that deepen your appreciation.

The effort involved in this adventure is rewarded with unforgettable scenery, a sense of achievement, and a genuine connection with Norway’s wild landscape. It’s a perfect choice for active, curious travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot—they want to feel like explorers.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic day in the mountains that combines outdoor fun with cultural touches, this tour delivers excellent value. Just be prepared for some physical activity, and you’ll likely leave with memories to cherish long after you return home.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including pickup, the canoe ride, hiking, and return.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s better suited for active travelers with hiking experience; the trail involves some scrambling and rocky terrain.

What is included in the price?
Included are the transport from Stavanger, a canoe ride, use of technical equipment, a small snack with hot berry juice, and a packed lunch from Villa Rosehagen.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 8 years old or for pregnant women. Also, children under 3 ft 3 in or 33 lbs are not recommended.

What about dietary restrictions?
Let the organizers know in advance so they can prepare your packed lunch accordingly.

How fit do I need to be?
A good level of fitness is advised since the hike can be challenging, with some elevation gain and rocky terrain.

Can I join if I don’t know how to canoe?
Yes, guides provide instructions, and even beginners have reported feeling safe and comfortable during the paddle.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes suitable for hiking, and bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots.

Is the trail crowded?
No, the secret trail is almost entirely free of other hikers, especially compared to the main route.

How do I book?
Reservations are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—and you can reserve now and pay later through the provider.

This tour offers a genuine escape into Norway’s wilderness, perfect for travelers eager for adventure, authenticity, and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: