Start: Skjeggedal, Odda
End: Same as start
Time: 8-12 hours
Distance: 27-km round-trip
When to go: June to May
Website: https://trolltunga.com/
Nearest airport: Bergen
Highlights
Trolltunga, or the Troll’s Tongue, is a spectacular rock formation jutting horizontally out of a mountain on top of Sørfjorden fjord. It offers a breathtaking and iconic view. The sheer cliff and surrounding landscapes make for unforgettable pictures. Trolltunga offers one of the most Instagram-worthy photo opportunities in Norway. It is situated at 1,180 meters above sea level and around 700 meters above Ringedalsvannet lake in Skjeggedal. The hike takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, mountain plateaus, and rocky terrain, providing stunning natural scenery.
The hike is a good taste of Norway, fjords and Scandinavian Mountains.
Trekking Routes
The hike can be started at P2 Skjeggedal or P3 Måglitopp. The height difference from P2 Skjeggedal to Trolltunga is about 800 meters and from P3 Måglitopp about 320 meters and reduces 7kms from the total hike.
You can also combined the ascent with a 200m ascent via ferrata in addition to hiking the last 3kms to the summit. The return is always via the trail.
Difficulty
The hike to the Trolltunga cliff is demanding because of the great distance. It is considered very challenging due to steep and rocky sections and good level of physical fitness is required. Hikers should be prepared for uphill climbs, uneven terrain, and some exposed areas. You must also have good hiking boots and be equipped for sudden rain or cold. The round trip can take 8-12 hours, depending on your pace and weather.
Experienced hikers may hike on their own during the summer (June to September). Even then the safest alternative is to join a guided hike, and you need to be in good shape. Outside the summer months you have to hike with a guide
Via Ferrata
For more adventure or the need to mix things up, try the Trolltunga Via Ferrata. It is a 250–meter ascent Via Ferrata route followed by the final 3 km to Trolltunga. Return is on the Trolltunga Trail. If you wish, the Trolltunga Via Ferrata may be combined with a night on the mountain.
The Via Ferrata tours are available from May to October.
Getting There
From Bergen, head for Odda or Tyssedal the day before the tour, and it’s advisable to do the same the night after due to the tour’s length and demands. The approximately 150 km journey from Bergen to Odda is an experience itself, taking you through Hardanger, Norway’s orchard, alongside the picturesque Hardangerfjord, and into the Sørfjord.
The drive from Bergen to Odda typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you have a car, head to the Skjeggedal parking area, keeping in mind that parking may fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Alternatively, from Odda, there are shuttle buses connecting Odda, P1 Tyssedal, and P2 Skjeggedal, along with another bus to P3 Måglitopp.
Trace back you steps on the way back.
Nearby Activites
- Bergen Siteseeing
- Hardangerfjord
- Hardanger orchards