More than 700 meters above ground lies the so-called troll tongue “Trolltunga”, a breathtaking rock overlooking Norway’s Hardanger Fjord. With the snow-capped mountains in front of you, the sky so close and the deep-blue lake, you’ll soon feel as if you’re at the end of the world. It’s certainly a magical place to see once in a lifetime.
If you’re dreaming of flying to Norway and checking Trolltunga off your bucket list, you can easily save on flights by exploring Flytrippers’ deals page. For Norway, you might want to consider the self-transfer tip. Don’t forget that you can also redeem travel rewards to pay less for your tickets (including the exceptional deal for $925 free with the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card).
Here’s everything you need to know about this out-of-the-ordinary hike.
The hike to Trolltunga
The summit has to be earned! This almost 38-kilometer climb (roundtrip) has a little over 2,000 meters of elevation gain. You’ve figured out that it’s not for lazy people.
For a more accessible hike in Norway, you can always venture into the Preikestolen cliff, as Flytrippers guest blogger Patrick did.
At Trolltunga, however, you can start from 3 different points and thus shorten your journey by a few kilometers. The organization of the natural park has classified the ascent as “extra demanding.” Therefore, you must be in very good shape, well-equipped, and prepared to exert your calf muscles!
“Unfortunately, every year, we need to rescue a few hikers. Some have had accidents, but others are insufficiently prepared” reads the official website. In 2015, an Australian tourist died after falling from the famous rock while attempting a rather perilous photo.
Visiting Trolltunga in the cold season
During the cold season (from October 1st to May 31st), the weather conditions are particularly challenging.
The park’s team, in fact, recommends being accompanied by a guide and being highly experienced in hiking before embarking on your expedition on the icy and snowy trails.
You can book your guided tour on Flytrippers’ recommended site for activities, Get Your Guide, or on the official website. This includes all the necessary equipment such as trekking poles, crampons, and snowshoes.
Visiting Trolltunga in the warm season
During the summer months (June 1st to September 30th), you can wander freely along the trails. You may, however, encounter a lot more tourists.
Yes, with the multitude of incredible photos posted on social networks, the area has become very popular, with almost 80,000 visitors in just a few years.
Nevertheless, the breathtaking view is worth the detour.
Camping in Trolltunga
Some who are more adventurous also choose to sleep on-site to fully enjoy the park and limit the physical effort in a single day.
You can easily pitch your tent in the designated areas, as camping is free and allowed. However, be aware that in this alpine environment, trees are rare and the wind can blow very strongly.
When you wake up in the morning, expect a magnificent display of color as the sun rises over the mountains.
Other activities at Trolltunga
Looking for maximum adrenalin? The site also offers a 250-meter-high via ferrata overlooking the fjord. It’s pretty intense!
Don’t forget to take breaks during your ascent to admire the breathtaking view stretching out towards the glaciers.
Once you’ve climbed the canyon walls, it’s just a 3-kilometer walk to the famous rock.
It’s a great way to add even more thrills to your adventure.
You can also take to the water in a kayak. Navigate the fjord after admiring it from above, and you’ll have a whole new perspective.
Fun fact, you can even hold your wedding ceremony (in small groups) right on the rock suspended in the air!
Accommodation in Trolltunga
Odda offers a wide range of accommodation options, including the Hardanger Hotel, the Trolltunga Hotel, and the Vikinghaug waterfront apartments.
For an out-of-the-ordinary night in the wilderness, you can also book a luxurious Woodnest Treehouse (or camp directly in the national park in front of the fjord, as mentioned).
How to get to Trolltunga
Trolltunga is located just outside the municipality of Odda, 6 hours from Oslo, Norway’s capital.
You can drive to Hardanger Park in a rental car:
- From Oslo (OSL): 6 hours
- From Bergen (BGO): 3 hours
- From Stavanger (SVG): 4 hours
- From Haugesund (HAU): 2.5 hours
The trip is also possible without a car. It involves taking a bus to Odda from the Bergen or Voss train stations (approximately 3 hours). Bergen airport is well served. You can fly there from Oslo for as little as $83, or even from Paris (CDG) for as little as $75.
If you’re arriving in the capital, bus services from Oslo are also available during certain periods only.
Otherwise, the Oslo-Bergen train (approx. 7 hours) is renowned for offering one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, passing through the Norwegian countryside.
Now all you have to do is practice your poses in front of the camera, and you’ll be sure to leave with the most beautiful of memories.
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Featured image: Trolltunga (photo credit: Benjamin Davis)
