Stavanger Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

So, you’re in Stavanger and looking for some adventure? Very good! This lovely Norwegian city isn’t just a pretty face. It’s more or less a springboard to some seriously jaw-dropping sights. If you want scenic boat rides, or maybe thrilling hikes, possibly even quaint villages. I’d say there’s day trip from Stavanger with your name on it! These top 5 picks, with that in mind, are sure to provide enough memories for the entire family or friends group and you will not be disapointed by them.

1. Hiking Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen): The Iconic Viewpoint

First on our list, quite understandably, is Pulpit Rock. Commonly know to tourists as Preikestolen. I mean, you can’t really mention Stavanger without someone bringing up this famous clifftop. Is that right? The hike to the top is a popular trek, almost 8 kilometers round trip. You’ll climb to reach the absolutely level plateau, that is a 604-meter drop down to Lysefjorden. That said, a moderate level of fitness, at the very least, is arguably required, the views are so beyond worth every single step.

Pack a lunch, is what I suggest, or anyway you will likely regret this choice. Allow about 4-5 hours for the hike to really soak up the surroundings. Actually, once you’re up there, it can be pretty breezy, so dressing in layers is so important, for sure. First, get ready for views that would frankly make your jaw drop. Secondly, the scenery itself can be somewhat inspiring for creative thinking for writers or artists alike!

“Preikestolen isn’t just a hike; that is your unforgettable communion with nature.”

One tip for all hikers, arrive at the car park sooner rather than later to beat the tourist groups and queues on the hike, especially in peak months. Try to arrive ahead of most other visitors that are expected each day as these walking paths may prove frustrating or hard work. I promise, this will increase the likelihood that your trek will feel more pleasurable! You’ll thank me, I’m sure, for thinking about all of your holiday needs.

2. Conquering Kjeragbolten: The Daredevil’s Delight

Okay, is hiking up Pulpit Rock more a casual stroll in the park? Kjeragbolten could just be more to your liking. Quite simply, this boulder wedged between two rock faces hangs a whopping 984 meters over Lysefjorden. Actually, getting to Kjeragbolten is slightly trickier and takes much longer than reaching Pulpit Rock. But, that is if you enjoy a challenge, is it?

In truth, the hike can take around 6-8 hours round trip. This challenge with this route involves steep climbs and rocky terrain and very exposed areas of walking at high altitude. That said, hikers will require very proper hiking gear. Sturdy footwear is clearly so incredibly vital. Don’t try walking in old gym trainers on such ground. Despite its challenging climb, and I mean a challenging one at that, those who brave the hike are rewarded. They find what can arguably be deemed as exhilarating photo opportunity, a very exhilarating photo opportunity to brag to your friends about.

One little piece of advice before considering a trip like this. Only tackle this hike if the weather looks more than likely clear. Really bad weather can come over rapidly. Clouds may form, and some are not for inexperienced hikers to overcome. Be wise! Always check and never think that can not happen to me! Local forecasters provide lots of helpful information. Very helpful stuff to know if you want that next profile picture update or some memories that will be etched on your brain for years to come.

3. Exploring Lysefjorden by Boat: A Relaxing Fjord Cruise

Right then, if the thought of climbing mountains brings on the sweats? Never fear. What I suggest instead, experience the stunning beauty of Lysefjorden from a completely different view point: By taking a relaxing boat ride. Some of these cruises last between 2-3 hours. I mean that can possibly get you up close to the rugged cliffs, the stunning waterfalls, and the overall natural beauty. What a sight that is to behold, so very pretty! Most of the time, boats usually sail past Pulpit Rock giving you that incredible view from below!

As a matter of fact, several tours actually include chances to see wildlife, sometimes even seals basking on rocks or eagles soaring overhead. And by the way that is something special and extremely unforgettable. It’s clearly a relaxing way, it is, to experience Lysefjorden’s majesty. You’re also not running short of stamina trying to climb anything!

The cruise vessels vary on types but those new, eco-friendly tours, is what I like best! Some include comfy seating inside if conditions out on the water get a little chilly. Most boast exterior vantage point spaces to capture great panoramic shots to share with loved ones. There may well be some form of bar or small restaurant offering nibbles, cakes and light snacks along with hot and cold drinks for all tastes, and budgets, to relish while enjoying the fantastic landscapes that you will cruise through. Make the most of that time. Savor the views! Savor some delights and you won’t regret spending a single penny!

4. Visiting Gamle Stavanger: Wander Through History

Fancy doing something a little less strenous and still capture the very best that Norway has to give! Gamle Stavanger, is more than likely where you should be. Old Stavanger has become very trendy. An attractive section of well-preserved old wooden houses and buildings. So picture-perfect white houses and narrow, cobbled streets make a perfect day to admire. Old Stavanger also displays what most of Stavanger looked very like pre-oil days.

Walk around these tranquil streets and soak in the authentic Scandinavian vibe. Some buildings and places of particular noteworthiness can clearly be found and the detail on many exteriors is beyond compare. If there is one aspect to Norway and Scandinavia it is the ability to embrace very traditional forms. Some have actually become renovated so tastefully that the look completely remains!

Take this opporunity to uncover little gift shops and outlets to buy treasures, cakes and refreshments. The atmosphere is arguably pretty pleasant throughout the district, the views are terrific and the chance to appreciate how Scandinavian families lived so long ago and some still do, make this a worthy day out.

5. Flor and Fjaere: A Floral Paradise

Next and finally, for all people wanting some colorful gardens and an incredibly peaceful oasis, very please find out about Flor and Fjaere. This lovely garden is found upon the island of Sør-Hidle, just some way of a boat excursion from Stavanger.

I believe that it’s all about visiting the gardens to absorb something completely distinctive! From actually arriving on the island by boat, from experiencing that natural paradise with floral spectacles that display plants, trees and vegetation from countries all over that gorgeous earth that sustains. Guided tours take site visitors around the landscaped backdrops which is then accompanied by a delicious dinner!

Is it the peaceful spot you were hoping it might just be? Well, that can be really easy to answer. Simply yes! Get yourself in an exotic place by touring Scandinavian spots to add something really memorable to your travels!