Oh, South Norway. The land of jaw-dropping landscapes, stunning fjords, and hikes that will make your legs cry, while your heart falls in love. If you’re considering a trip, let me tell you, you’re in for an adventure! Think of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls that make you say “Wow” at least 12 times a day, and small towns where the local coffee tastes like liquid joy. Sounds dreamy, right?
Why South Norway, you ask? Well, it’s the kind of place where nature slaps you across the face in the best possible way. It’s rugged, it’s remote, but also cozy and inviting, making it a perfect destination for both solo wanderers and group adventurers alike. Whether you’re a low-budget backpacker or someone looking to spoil yourself a little, South Norway has something for everyone.
👉 But before we dive in, have you checked out my complete guide about Norway? It’s packed with essential info about the country, where to go, the average costs, the best SIM cards, and answers all your burning questions!
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In this post:
1. My Itinerary: A Rollercoaster of Scenic Wonders
2. Best Time to Visit: The Eternal Dilemma
3. How to Get Around: You’ve Got Options!
4. Where to Stay: Accommodation Recommendations for Every Budget
5. Best Hikes: A Journey Through South Norway’s Most Stunning Trails
6. Favorite Spots: Hidden Gems of South Norway
7. Top Activities: Make the Most of Your Time in South Norway
8. One More Section: Norway’s Unique Wildlife—Meet the Locals!
9. Why South Norway is Perfect for Solo Travelers (and Especially Solo Female Travelers)
My Itinerary: A Rollercoaster of Scenic Wonders
I landed in Stavanger, yes, it’s as cute as it sounds. From there, I rented a rental car (because, let’s face it, the roads are ridiculously scenic and you’ll want to stop every 10 minutes to take a picture). My first stop: Lysebotn, a tiny village that feels like the set of a Norwegian fairy tale.
After soaking in the beauty (and letting my legs rest after that flight), I hiked Kjeragbolten. If you’ve seen the photos of that rock, you know what I’m talking about. Two nights later, I drove to Jorpeland for Preikstolen (Pulpit Rock). One night here, then off to Odda for Trolltunga and Vøringfossen. A road trip that’s equal parts breathtaking and a workout for your legs!
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on hiking in the mountains, pack layers and a waterproof jacket. The weather is as unpredictable as your love life (and just as dramatic).
👉 Want to explore more gems across Norway? Check out my region-specific guides! Like this post on the dramatic fjords, colorful fishing villages, and wild Arctic beauty of Lofoten and Senja.
Best Time to Visit: The Eternal Dilemma
“Should I go in summer, or should I brave the cold months?” A question as old as time. Well, my friend, the best months to visit South Norway for hiking are between April and October. Summer is ideal for longer daylight hours (hello, midnight sun!) and for hikes that will make you feel on top of the world. Just remember, the higher you go, the colder it gets. So bring that waterproof jacket I mentioned, and you’ll be fine.
How to Get Around: You’ve Got Options!
So how do you navigate this vast land of fjords and mountains? Lucky for you, transportation options are plentiful. If you’re on a budget, Norway has an amazing public transportation system. Buses and trains run frequently and are well-connected. Need a transfer from or to the airport? Book here.
If you want to be the master of your own schedule (and your Instagram feed), rent a car. Trust me, the freedom to pull over at every breathtaking waterfall is so worth it. For the best rental deals, check deals here for unbeatable prices and reviews.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Recommendations for Every Budget
If you’re like me and enjoy the simple things in life, a cute place near the trailheads is perfect. But finding a place to stay in South Norway is like chasing the midnight sun—blink, and it’s gone! With a short window of perfect weather and limited accommodations, things get booked up fast. If you spot something you like, don’t overthink it, lock it in before someone else does. Trust me, you don’t want to be left scrambling for a spot when adventure calls.
Travel hack alert! Many hotels offer special deals for the U.S. and some Asian countries. Get a VPN, change your location, and score the best possible rates! Get yours here.
The best location to hike Pulpit Rock
Now, where should you stay to hike Pulpit Rock? If you love having shops, restaurants, and plenty of options around, Stavanger is your go-to base. But if you’re all about getting closer to the action, then Jørpeland is where you want to be. It’s just a short ferry ride away from Stavanger, but it puts you right on the doorstep of some of the best hikes in the region. Here are some top picks, whether you’re looking for budget-friendly stays, comfy hotels, or jaw-dropping views
Stavanger Stays – City Vibes & Easy Access
Central Economic Stavanger Brødregata: If you’re traveling on a budget but still want to be in the middle of Stavanger, this spot is your jackpot. It’s simple, central, and lets you save your kroner for more important things, like epic hikes and cinnamon buns. Book it here
Thon Hotel Stavanger: Bright, modern, and oh-so-cozy, Thon Hotel brings all the comforts you need after a day of exploring. Bonus? A prime location near shops and restaurants. Book your stay here
Clarion Hotel Stavanger (Mid-range): Want a touch of luxury without breaking the bank? Clarion’s got your back with stylish rooms, a great vibe, and even a wellness area to relax those tired legs after hiking Pulpit Rock. Book it here
Silent Seaview Luxury Apartment Grasholmen: If waking up to panoramic sea views and sipping coffee on a sleek balcony sounds like your thing, this high-end apartment is pure bliss. Just a short walk from Stavanger’s center but with all the peace you need. Book it before it’s gone!
Jørpeland Stays – Closer to the Action
Preikestolen Hotel & BaseCamp: Staying here is as close as it gets to Pulpit Rock without pitching a tent. Rustic charm meets comfort, and you’ll be perfectly positioned for sunrise hikes without the morning commute. Book it here
Beautiful Beach Line Cabin with Sauna Near Pulpit Rock: Imagine cozy nights by the fire, a post-hike sauna session, and a private beach to unwind, this cabin is the ultimate Norwegian escape. Perfect for travelers looking to blend adventure with relaxation. Book it here
Nice Home In Jørpeland: This place has plenty of space, all the modern comforts, and puts you super close to all the outdoor action. Perfect for a chill getaway. Book it here
Pepsitoppen Villa: Luxury meets nature in this stunning villa perched above Jørpeland. Floor-to-ceiling windows, designer interiors, and epic fjord views make it the spot for a dreamy getaway. Book it before it’s gone!
Odda the best location to hike Trolltunga, and visit Langfossen & Latefossen
Blue House Dormitory: Perfect for budget travelers, Blue House Dormitory offers clean dorm rooms, a shared kitchen, and a chill vibe. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore Odda and access the Trolltunga hike. Book Blue House Dormitory here
Trolltunga Odda Apartments: These modern apartments offer cozy Scandinavian design with all the comforts of home. Think beautiful interiors, fully equipped kitchens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect place to stay after an epic day of hiking. Book Trolltunga Odda Apartments here
Starview Trolltunga Apartment: Wake up to panoramic fjord views right from your bedroom window. With chic decor and top-notch amenities, it’s an ideal stay for couples or small groups wanting a bit of extra comfort. Book your stay before it gets full here!
Trolltunga Fjord View: Expect bright, modern interiors, a balcony perfect for morning coffee sessions, and an unbeatable location just a short drive from the famous Trolltunga hike. Book Trolltunga Fjord View here
Odda Properties: Modern Scandinavian design, cozy vibes, windows overlooking the fjord, and all the comforts you need make Odda Atmosphere, Odda Living or Odda Panorama a perfect choice. They get booked fast, so book your spot by clicking on one of these properties before it’s gone!
Best Hikes: A Journey Through South Norway’s Most Stunning Trails
South Norway is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking for a scenic walk, these trails are unmissable:
Kjeragbolten:
A steep and demanding hike, this is the spot for those looking for a challenge. With slippery rocks and the iconic Kjeragbolten rock between two cliffs, this hike is not for the faint-hearted. But the reward? Breathtaking views and a photo opportunity you won’t find anywhere else. For a more laidback adventure, book a guide here.
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Length: 10.8 km round trip
- Height: 613 m
- Approx. Time: 6-8 hours
- Frequentation: Very busy
- Note: Very steep and demanding hike. The rocks are extremely slippery and you’ll have to trust the ropes. Possibility to find snow even in summer.
- Tip:
– Bring gloves for the ropes
– Bring a filter to drink water on the way - Where to stay: Lysebotn
Preikstolen (Pulpit Rock):
A relatively easy hike, but you’ll definitely want to beat the crowds. This is the classic “Instagram hike” with jaw-dropping views of the Lysefjord below. If you don’t want to do it solo, go with a guide. Check options here.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 8.9 km round trip
- Height: 502 m
- Approx. Time: 3-4 hours
- Frequentation: Very busy
- Tip: Better to go very early as it can be extremely crowded
- Where to stay: Jorpeland
Trolltunga:
It’s long, it’s hard, and it’s one of the most iconic hikes in Norway. Prepare for a full day (or consider breaking it up over two). The incredible photo op at the end will make it all worth it. For a guided tour or an overnight adventure, check options here.
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Length: 28 km round trip
- Height: 1,213 m
- Approx. Time: 9-12 hours
- Frequentation: Busy
- Tip:
– Might be better to split it in 2 days and camp there as the hike is very long and hard for the knees.
– You can drink fresh and clean water on the way
– A closer parking exists and you’ll be able to avoid 8km of hiking but there are only 30 spots and a line is already formed at its opening at 6am (NOK 600 per day).
– The other parking is NOK 100 cheaper.
– If you want to avoid paying this expensive parking you can directly rent an Airbnb very close to the entrance of the hike and with free parking spot (option I chose). - Where to stay: Odda
Vøringfossen:
A shorter, easy hike, but with one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Norway. If you’re in the area, you simply can’t miss it.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 7.2 km round trip
- Height: 478 m
- Approx. Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Frequentation: Moderately busy
- Tip: Don’t forget to drive to the top to enjoy another point of view. No hike needed
Just don’t forget, travel insurance is essential for any adventure! Whether you’re hiking through remote landscapes or venturing into unknown territories, it’s there to cover unexpected mishaps, lost gear, or travel interruptions. Explore with peace of mind and focus on the journey ahead! Check options here.
Favorite Spots: Hidden Gems of South Norway
In addition to the hikes, South Norway has some incredibly scenic spots that will leave you in awe. Here are some of my personal favorites:
Latefossen:
One of the most photographed waterfalls in Norway, Latefossen is a twin waterfall that’s as majestic as it sounds. Stop here for a quick detour and prepare to be amazed. If you’re based in Stavanger, book your trip to the Langfoss and Latefoss waterfalls here.
Langfossen:
Located near Etne, this waterfall drops 612 meters and is as breathtaking as they come. The surrounding landscape makes for a perfect place to pause and take in the beauty. If you’re based in Stavanger, book your trip to the Langfoss and Latefoss waterfalls here.
Lysebotn:
A small town that offers stunning views of the Lysefjord, beautiful waterfalls and it’s also the gateway to the famous Kjeragbolten hike. Spend a night here to rest your legs before tackling the hike.
These spots are must-visits when you’re in the region, and the best part is, you don’t need to hike for hours to see them!
Top Activities: Make the Most of Your Time in South Norway
While hiking might take up most of your time, South Norway offers plenty of other activities to round out your trip. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or more adventure, there’s something for everyone:
Explore the stunning fjords on a boat tour. Book your tickets here and experience the tranquility of the fjords from the water. Check availability here.
Odda: Trolltunga Via Ferrata, Sunset and Sunrise:
Climb up the Trolltunga Via Ferrata, feel the fresh air all around as you continue to Trolltunga Dome and then enjoy the sunset at Trolltunga. Book this unique experience here.
For the thrill-seekers, a Rib Boat safari through the fjords will give you an adrenaline rush and up-close views of Norway’s natural beauty. Check out options here.
Kayaking Adventures:
Paddle through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering cliffs. This is a great activity for those who want to take it slow and appreciate the scenery up close.
One More Section: Norway’s Unique Wildlife—Meet the Locals!
South Norway isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes; it’s also home to some seriously cool wildlife. While hiking, keep an eye out for reindeer, wild goats, and even moose if you’re lucky! The fjords are teeming with marine life, so if you’re into wildlife watching, South Norway is a fantastic place to do it. You can even join a wildlife safari to learn more about these magnificent creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Why South Norway is Perfect for Solo Travelers (and Especially Solo Female Travelers)
What’s so great about solo travel in South Norway? For one, it’s safe—like, really safe. The locals are friendly, and the hikes are well-marked, so you can go at your own pace without fear. Also, the breathtaking scenery means you’ll never feel lonely, even if you’re by yourself. Trust me, you’ll be so lost in the beauty around you that solo travel will feel like a superpower.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About South Norway
The weather in South Norway is unpredictable, especially in the mountains. While summer brings long days and milder temperatures, it can still get chilly, so pack accordingly (layers are your best friend!).
Yes, hiking in South Norway is generally very safe, thanks to well-marked trails and good infrastructure. That said, always check weather conditions and take proper hiking gear, especially if you’re going on difficult trails.
Absolutely! While some of the more popular hikes like Trolltunga may be inaccessible due to snow, winter offers a completely different experience. Think northern lights, cozy cabins, and skiing in the mountains. Just make sure you’re prepared for the cold!
Final Thoughts: Your South Norway Adventure Awaits!
So, are you ready to take on South Norway? From the rugged beauty of Trolltunga to the serene, picturesque Preikstolen, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re hiking the peaks or simply exploring the charming towns, you’ll discover why this destination is a must-visit for every type of traveler, especially solo wanderers like us.
