Stavanger: Preikestolen Winter Hike + Hot Lunch

If you’re dreaming of visiting Stavanger and want to experience one of Norway’s most iconic sights, the Preikestolen winter hike is a fantastic option — especially with the added comfort of a warm lunch afterward. We’ve looked into this tour, and it sounds like a well-organized adventure that balances breathtaking scenery with safety, all led by experienced guides who know the terrain inside out.

What really caught our eye? First, the chance to walk in peace and with fewer crowds — winter tends to keep visitors away, turning the trail into a more intimate experience. Second, the expert guidance assures you’re safe on icy or snowy paths, which is key for those less familiar with winter hiking.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the hike is physically demanding and primarily suited for those with some hiking experience. If you’re not used to active outdoor days or climbing at altitude, this might be a little more challenging than a casual walk. Still, if you enjoy outdoor adventures and want to see the stunning beauty of Norway in winter, this tour has a lot to offer.

This experience is perfect for adventurers with a good level of fitness who want to combine a challenging hike with comfort, scenic views, and good company. It’s also a standout option for those who appreciate the security of a guided route through potentially tricky snow and ice.

Key Points

• Guided expertise: Your guides are highly knowledgeable, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Fewer crowds: The winter season means a more serene experience at Preikestolen.
• Spectacular views: Expect incredible panoramic vistas of Lysefjorden, especially with fresh snow.
• Comfort and safety: Guides carry all necessary winter gear and navigation tools.
• Tasty reward: A warm, organic tomato soup awaits after the hike, served at the cozy Villa Rosehagen.
• Suitable for experienced hikers: Not recommended for complete beginners or young children under 6.

We loved the way guides like Erlend and Alan go above and beyond to make every part of this trip memorable. From the moment you’re picked up in Stavanger to the final warm meal, every step is carefully managed to maximize your enjoyment and safety. Their local knowledge shines through, especially when they take you along hidden paths and viewpoint spots that aren’t part of the usual tourist trail.

The scenery is truly jaw-dropping. Imagine standing 604 meters above Lysefjorden, with snow gently blanketing the rugged cliff edges — a view that’s even more dramatic in winter. Several reviewers mention how lucky they felt with the weather, but even on misty or foggy days, many found the experience inspiring and mysterious. One traveler shared, “It was still a really beautiful and mystic experience,” even when the views were obscured.

The hike itself takes about 5 hours round trip — roughly 2.5 hours each way — giving enough time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and rest without feeling rushed. The trail is well-prepared for winter conditions, with guides providing anti-slip devices and other equipment, which significantly adds to safety and confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Preparation

Your adventure begins with pickup from one of 13 designated locations in Stavanger. The transportation is comfortable, and the guides ensure everyone is familiarized with what to expect. We love that the tour is limited to just 8 participants, which means a more personalized experience and plenty of space for photos and questions.

The Drive to the Trailhead

The drive takes approximately 40 minutes, giving you a glimpse of the Norwegian landscape before hitting the trail. Restrooms are available at the trailhead, so you don’t need to worry about nature calls before the hike.

Starting the Hike

Once at the trailhead, guides give a briefing on trail conditions, gear, and safety tips. This is especially important in winter when snow and ice can make the trail more challenging. The group hikes at a comfortable pace, allowing for clothing adjustments, snack breaks, and soaking in the scenery. Expect the trail to have some snow, but the guides carry equipment like crampons if needed.

Reaching Preikestolen

After about 2.5 hours, you arrive at the legendary Preikestolen — a towering flat-topped cliff 604 meters above Lysefjorden. The views here are nothing short of spectacular, with panoramic vistas that make all the effort worthwhile. Many reviews highlight how the winter snow and clear skies can turn the landscape into a true fairy tale scene.

Time to Relax and Take Photos

You’ll have ample time to enjoy the views, take photos, and simply absorb the atmosphere. Some guides may take you to hidden spots along the way to avoid crowds and find quieter viewpoints, which many guests appreciate.

Descending and Post-Hike Meal

The hike down takes around 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy the forested winter scenery. Exhausted but happy, the group then heads to Villa Rosehagen, a charming spot where a hot, organic tomato soup awaits — perfect after a chilly hike.

The Warm Meal and Return

Sharing a meal with fellow adventurers is a highlight; many mention how delicious and comforting the soup is, especially after a long day. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated, as long as you let the guides know in advance.

The Practical Side: What to Know Before Booking

What to Bring
Guides recommend packing warm clothing, a hat, gloves, waterproof pants, hiking shoes, a daypack, water, snacks, and rain gear. The Norwegian winter can be unpredictable, so layering and waterproof gear are crucial. High-heeled shoes and jeans are explicitly not allowed for safety reasons.

Who Should Avoid This Tour
It’s not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, people under 3 ft 3 in (100 cm), or those with low fitness levels. If you’re not used to active outdoor pursuits, this might be a tough day. The hike is designed for those with some hiking experience and a good level of fitness.

Group Size and Cost
Limited to 8 participants, which keeps the experience intimate. The tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later. While not inexpensive, reviews suggest the value is high considering the expert guides, safety equipment, and included lunch.

Language and Guides
Guides speak both English and Norwegian, and their knowledge clearly enhances the trip. Several reviewers praise their passion, safety awareness, and storytelling.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Others

Reviews consistently praise the professionalism and friendly attitude of guides like Erlend, Allen, and Stephan. One said, “He was able to make this an extra special experience,” highlighting how guides enhance the overall adventure.

Many mention how the snow and winter weather make the scenery more magical, and despite some fog or mist, the experience remains memorable. One traveler noted, “Even when the views were obscured, it was still a beautiful, mystic experience.” These comments underscore how versatile and compelling the tour can be, no matter the weather.

A common theme among reviewers is the quality of the post-hike lunch. The hot soup, especially the organic tomato variety, is a hit — a simple but meaningful way to warm up after the climb.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This hike is perfect for adventurers who enjoy active days in nature and are comfortable in winter conditions. If you’ve done some hiking before and want a guided experience that emphasizes safety and local knowledge, this tour hits the mark. The small group size and personalized approach make it suitable for travelers who appreciate a more intimate, less crowds-driven outing.

Travelers who care about scenery, food, and safety will find this experience rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those who want to visit Norway’s iconic fjord landscape without the hassle of planning the route themselves.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely walk or have very young children, this is probably not the best fit. The physical demands and winter conditions require a certain level of fitness and preparedness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Not quite. The hike is best suited for those with hiking experience and good fitness levels. It’s challenging in winter, especially with snow and ice.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, waterproof pants, hiking shoes, and rain gear. Dress in layers, and consider waterproof and insulated items for comfort and safety.

Are meals included?
Yes, after the hike, you’ll enjoy a hot organic tomato soup at Villa Rosehagen. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if communicated beforehand.

How long is the hike?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, including pickup, the hike itself (around 5 hours total), and the meal.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 people for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour different from others?
The focus on winter conditions, expert guiding, and the secluded, crowd-free environment make it stand out. Plus, the included hot lunch is a lovely reward.

Is it family-friendly?
Not really. It’s best for those over 6 years old with some hiking experience. Very young children or those with low fitness levels might find it too demanding.

What if the weather is bad?
Guides are trained to handle winter weather safely. Some reviews mention fog or mist but still found the overall experience rewarding.

For anyone who loves adventure, stunning scenery, and good company, this winter hike to Preikestolen offers a memorable day. The guides’ expertise, combined with the peaceful winter landscape, makes for a unique Norwegian experience. The included warm lunch—simple but satisfying—adds that extra touch of comfort after a challenging climb.

If you’re prepared for a physically demanding outing and eager to see one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks in a quieter, snow-dusted setting, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to step away from crowded summer trails and enjoy Norway’s rugged beauty at its most tranquil.

This experience truly caters to travelers looking for an active and authentic Norwegian adventure, trusting in knowledgeable guides to keep safety a top priority. And, as many reviewers confirm, the memories — from the panoramic views to the cozy meal afterward — stay with you long after the snow melts.

Feel ready to take on Norway’s winter magic? This guided hike might just be your perfect escape into the wild, breathtaking landscape of Lysefjorden.

You can check availability for your dates here: