Author: Joey2510

Norway is a hiker’s paradise, dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and glaciers that offer some of the most iconic and breathtaking scenery you’ll ever encounter. Among its many natural wonders lies Trolltunga (“Troll’s Tongue”), one of Norway’s most popular hikes. This unique rock formation juts out approximately 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, providing an exhilarating adventure for those who dare to tread its path.

At Trolltunga, the journey is as captivating as the destination. The trail leading to the viewpoint is filled with panoramic views that will compel you to pause frequently and soak in the beauty. The initial segment is a steep ascent, but once conquered, it opens up to a vast plateau. Here, the final 7 kilometers of the trail meander through landscapes dotted with snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls, guiding you toward the Troll’s Tongue. This trek stands out as one of my favorite hiking experiences, offering unparalleled views that I’ll never forget. It’s an adventure that’s unquestionably worth doing.

Best time to hike Trolltunga

The ideal hiking season for Trolltunga spans from June to September. During this period, the snow has typically melted, providing better trail conditions. However, mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. On our ascent, we encountered heavy rain and limited visibility, but upon reaching Trolltunga, the skies cleared, granting us sunny views of the fjord. Later, a sudden storm drenched our campsite, only for the next morning to greet us with perfect conditions and 360-degree vistas. In Norway, if you’re unhappy with the weather, wait a moment—it might just change.

How to get there?

Trolltunga is situated about a 30-minute drive from the town of Odda in Norway’s western fjord region. Read more on how to plan the perfect one week Fjord itinerary in my blog here:

Travelers often fly into Bergen and then proceed to Trolltunga via the following options:

By Boat – The Scenic Route: For a more scenic journey, take a ferry from Bergen to Rosendal, enjoying stunning fjord views along the way. From Rosendal, it’s an easy bus ride to Odda. While it’s slower than driving, this option lets you turn the trip into a memorable part of your adventure!

By Car: Renting a car offers flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace and visit intriguing spots en route. The drive from Bergen to Odda takes approximately 3–4 hours and is renowned for its scenic beauty, traversing picturesque roads between fjords. Along the way, consider stopping in Voss, known as Norway’s adrenaline capital, or the charming village of Flåm, nestled amidst towering mountains.

By Bus: Public transportation is available, though it may require more planning and offer less flexibility than driving.

Hike Information

• Elevation: The hike reaches an elevation of approximately 1,180 meters at its peak.

• Duration: Depending on your chosen starting point, the round-trip distance and estimated time vary:

• From P2 (Skjeggedal): Approximately 27 kilometers with an ascent of almost 800 meters; estimated hiking time is 8–12 hours.

• From P3 (Mågelitopp): Approximately 20 kilometers with an ascent of about 320 meters; estimated hiking time is 7–10 hours.

• Difficulty: This is a demanding hike through high-mountain terrain. It’s essential to be well-prepared and have prior experience with long mountain hikes.

Which starting point shoud you choose? P2 vs P3

There are two primary starting points for the Trolltunga hike:

• P2 (Skjeggedal): Beginning here entails a round-trip hike of approximately 27 kilometers with an ascent of almost 800 meters, typically taking between 8–12 hours.
• P3 (Mågelitopp): Starting from P3 reduces the round-trip distance to about 20 kilometers with an ascent of around 320 meters, with an estimated duration of 7–10 hours.

Access to P3 is limited, and parking spaces must be booked in advance. There is a fee for parking, and if you opt for the shuttle service, coordinating your hike with the shuttle schedule is essential.

During my visit, I embarked on an overnight hike from P3, which I highly recommend. This approach provided ample time at the summit, allowing us to experience varying weather conditions and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

What should I bring?

Mountain weather can change rapidly, so dressing in layers is advisable. Waterproof gear, including jackets, pants, shoes, and backpack covers, is essential. It’s better to be over-prepared for rain and cold than to be caught unprepared. As the saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.”

Needless to say, you should bring water and good fulfilling snacks, regardless of your starting point or physical condition.

Guided Tours: Should you consider one?

Opting for a guided tour is advisable if you:

• Want “unlimited” time at Trolltunga and the chance to experience it in different weather.
• Lack extensive hiking experience.
• Are travelling solo.
• Plan to undertake an overnight hike.
• Do not hae all the equipment (they rented us some backpack covers).
• Want a stress free experience.
• Find the logistics on planning around Trolltunga too complicated.
• Want to sleep under a million stars.
• Want to visit one of the most beautiful campsites you’ll see.

We did the hike with Troltunga adventures and we couldn’t recommend them enough. We had some lovely guides who brought and carried delicious food to camp. Assisted us all the way to the hike so safety never was on our minds. And finally, they made camping possible in the mountains. Doing this on your own is especially hard because the vast majority of people I assume will fly to norway, meaning limited space, which makes not carrying all your camping gear more of an inconvenience. Second of all, we knew that weather could be awful so we wanted as many shots as we could possibly get for seeing the fjords and Trolltunga, since we were all the way there. That is why we consider doing the overnight hike as the best way to experiencing this adventure.

That being said, we saw a lot of people doing the hike from P2, starting roughly at 5 am, and getting super early to the top due to their amazing pace. They arranged a spot in the P2 parking lot, rented a car and had great weather perfectly. But still, they had to get back to base in the afternoon on the same day for safety reasons. So please be careful and don’t take this hike not seriously.

Trolltunga Funfacts

Did you know there’s cellphone signal all the way to Trolltunga?

You thought this was the perfect place to disconect? I did too! But it turns out I had excellent cell service the whole way.

We were ready to disconnect for two days during our overnight hike but ended up FaceTiming family from our campsite! This connectivity isn’t just convenient—it’s a lifesaver. With Trolltunga’s growing popularity, many hikers arrive unprepared, leading to accidents and rescue missions.

Helicopter rescues in Norway are free!

After a record year with over 50 rescues, Norway installed emergency contact points along the trail to ensure safety.

Europe’s Largest Glacier

From Trolltunga, you’ll also see mainland Europe’s largest glacier, Folgefonna. Stunning views, free rescues, and full signal—this hike has it all!

Tips & Recommendations

1. Do it with a guide
2. Make it an overnight hike
3. Bring propper waterproof footwear
4. Bring waterproof clothing or at least a poncho.
5. Afterwards go for a Sauna and cold plunge in Heit Sauna
6. Make the hike a road trip experience, see my itinerary he

Ready to hike Trolltunga? This is your sign to go OUT and conquer Norway’s wild side. Make it the highlight of your journey—then keep the adventure going with our full Norway road trip itinerary!

Planning the Perfect 7-Day Road Trip Through the Norwegian Fjords

Norway is a land of endless adventure, where every turn in the road reveals a postcard-worthy landscape. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of cities like Bergen and Oslo, the charm of remote fishing villages with jaw-dropping scenery, or the thrill of hiking through dramatic fjords and cascading waterfalls, this country has something for every explorer. Norway is a vast country with endless adventures and places to choose from, so I understand how making your itinerary can feel a bit overwhelming. After extensive research and firsthand experience exploring Norway, I’ve designed the ultimate road trip itinerary to take you through some of the country’s most breathtaking and unmissable destinations. This itinerary has it all—a perfect balance between exploring cultural cities and tackling one of Norway’s most famous hikes, Trolltunga.

I strongly believe that the best way to explore Norway is by renting a car. I compared the cost between that and public transport, and if you’re two people traveling, the cost is the same. Plus, a car gives you the freedom to make spontaneous stops along the way and set your own schedule. So I strongly recommend renting a car.

The Classic Norwegian Trip: Where Culture Meets Nature

Day 1: Arrival in Bergen

Your adventure begins in Bergen, Norway’s gateway to the fjords. Before you leave the airport, it’s a good idea to rent your car. Chances are, it will be electric—Norway is one of the most EV-friendly countries in the world. If it’s your first time driving one, don’t worry; rental companies provide clear instructions, and there are plenty of charging stations along the way. Just make sure to download the necessary apps to manage payments and find charging points on the road.

If you fly in early, make the most of your time by exploring this charming city. Start by strolling through Bryggen, the iconic UNESCO-listed waterfront lined with colorful wooden buildings. Don’t forget to visit the bustling fish market, where you can try fresh seafood or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. If you’re not into seafood, head to Trekroneren hot dog stand in the city center. This stand has been open since 1948 and offers a wide selection of sausages and sauces.

Day 2: Drive to Odda

Today, you’ll embark on a four-hour drive through some of Norway’s most scenic roads, heading towards Odda, a small town nestled between towering mountains and deep fjords, best known as the starting point for the Trolltunga hike. On your way, look out for restrooms along the way, chances are you’ll be amazed by how cool they are. I know this sounds counter intuitive, but believe me, this are some of the most unique buildings you’ll see.

Once in Odda, take some time to explore the town, grab a bite at a local café, and stock up on supplies for the next day’s adventure. There are a couple of supermarkets around town where you can get everything you’ll need.

Day 3: Hiking Trolltunga

This is the day you take on one of Norway’s most legendary hikes: Trolltunga. Towering 700 meters above the fjord, this iconic rock formation offers one of the most jaw-dropping views you’ll ever witness. No wonder it’s one of Norway’s most famous hikes. There are several ways to do the hike, ranging from an intense day hike to a two-day overnight experience.

To make the most of it, I highly recommend booking a guided overnight hike and starting from the P3 parking lot to shorten the route. Not only will this allow you to experience Trolltunga under the stars, but you’ll also wake up to an unforgettable sunrise over the fjords—an experience few travelers get to witness. Keep in mind that mountain weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly, so by doing an overnight hike, you’ll have two chances to see Trolltunga in different conditions. Since this is one of Norway’s most sought-after hikes, plan ahead and secure your spot early. Check the weather forecast, come prepared, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. Make sure to reserve a parking spot and maybe also a shuttle to the starting point.

Day 4: From Odda to Voss

If you chose the overnight hike, you’ll wake up to a surreal sunrise above the fjords—a view worth every aching muscle. This is the true definition of a 5-million-star hotel with the most breathtaking scenery. After a well-deserved breakfast, you’ll make your way back down and hit the road towards Voss. The drive is nothing short of magical, winding through endless lakes, lush forests, and towering peaks. Voss is the perfect place to rest and recharge before another day of adventure. It is located only a two-hour drive from Odda and offers great opportunities for outdoor activities.

We highly recommend adding a recovery stop after you’ve finished hiking at the Sognefjord Sauna by Heit Sauna, just 20 minutes from Odda. After days of hiking, it felt incredible to unwind in a private floating sauna, completely surrounded by fjord cliffs and waterfalls. And yes,we went for the cold plunge straight into the icy fjord! It was a bold, bracing shock, but totally worth it. The full Nordic spa experience: hot, cold, silence, and nature. The perfect way to reset body and mind before continuing our road trip.

Day 5: Flåm, Gudvangen, or Voss

After a slow morning, it’s time to explore one of Norway’s most picturesque regions. You have a few incredible options:

• Flåm: A charming village nestled among towering mountains and pristine fjords. Visit the Stegastein Viewpoint, take a fjord cruise, or hop on the legendary Flåm Railway, one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
• Gudvangen: Step back in time at the Viking Village, where you can experience Viking life firsthand. Kayaking through the fjords is another unforgettable experience here.
• Voss: Known as Norway’s adventure capital, Voss is perfect for adrenaline junkies. Try white-water rafting, kayaking, or even skydiving for an unforgettable thrill.

As you make your way back to Bergen, take a detour to see some of Norway’s most spectacular waterfalls, including Vøringsfossen, Stalheimfossen, and Steinsdalsfossen.

Personally, we chose to have a slow morning and try to rest for the rest of the day as we head back to Bergen. We did stop at some amazing waterfalls and restrooms on our way back but that was about it.

Day 6: Back in Bergen

Bergen may be Norway’s second-largest city, but it still feels like a cozy, fairytale village. Spend the day soaking in the city’s unique charm. If the weather is on your side, take advantage of it and ride the Fløibanen Funicular to Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords. If you prefer something cultural or if it’s a rainy day (Bergen gets many of those), head to the KODE Museum to check out art by Edvard Munch, Picasso, and other great artists.

For a more relaxing way to experience the fjords, consider taking a cruise before you leave.

Day 7: Farewell to Norway

Your epic road trip through the Norwegian fjords comes to an end, but the memories will stay with you forever. If you have extra time, consider adding Stavanger to your itinerary, home to two of Norway’s most iconic hikes: Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten, the famous boulder wedged between two cliffs.

One thing’s for sure—Norway is a country you’ll never truly finish exploring, and you’ll find yourself longing to return again and again.

Go OUT and chase the wild side of Norway!

Whether you’re hiking up to Trolltunga, plunging into a fjord, or cruising through endless scenic roads—this is the kind of adventure that turns travelers into OUTsiders.
Ready to plan your epic week? Start with our full itinerary and make your way through Norway’s most iconic spots.

OUT is where the magic happens.