Trolltunga is a rock formation situated about 1,100 metres above sea level in Ullensvang Municipality in Vestland county, Norway. The cliff juts horizontally out from the mountain, about 700 metres above the north side of the lake Ringedalsvatnet. Popularity of the hike to Trolltunga and rock formation itself has exploded in recent years. The increased popularity has turned Trolltunga into a national icon and a major tourist attraction for the region. Until 2010, fewer than 800 people hiked to Trolltunga each year.
15 pictures of Trolltunga from Benjamin Davies, Tanya Tulupenko, Matt Lamers and other travelers
To reach Trolltunga, you can fly into Bergen or Oslo, the two closest major cities. From there, take a train or bus to Odda, the nearest town to the trailhead. The hike to Trolltunga typically begins at Skjeggedal or P3 Mågelitopp, both accessible by car or public transportation. During the main hiking season (June to September), a shuttle bus runs between Odda and the trailheads.
Booking a guided hike is highly recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain or visiting during the off-season. Guided hikes can be reserved at Trolltunga Active, which offers various packages to choose from. Make sure to book your spot well in advance, as guided tours fill up quickly.
The cost of visiting Trolltunga mainly includes transportation, accommodation, and guided tour fees. A round-trip train or bus ticket from Bergen or Oslo to Odda ranges from $50 to $100. Guided hikes start at around $150 per person. Keep in mind that you'll also need to budget for food and any additional activities you wish to do in the area.
Some of the best things to do around Trolltunga include exploring the nearby Folgefonna Glacier or the picturesque village of Tyssedal. You can also take a scenic drive along the Hardangerfjord, Norway's second-largest fjord, or visit the Låtefossen waterfall.
For food, check out the Enoteca Odda, a cozy Italian restaurant in the town of Odda, or Smeltehuset, located in the historic Tyssedal power plant, offering local cuisine and a unique atmosphere. For a quick bite, visit the Trolltunga Hotel's café, which offers sandwiches, soups, and other light fare.
When it comes to accommodation, consider staying at Trolltunga Hotel, located in Odda, which offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities. Alternatively, the charming Tyssedal Hotel offers a more intimate atmosphere with easy access to local attractions. For budget travelers, Trolltunga Guesthouse provides affordable private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.
Off the beaten path:
For a truly unique experience, consider spending a night at the Trolltunga Via Ferrata, an overnight cabin located near the rock formation. This cabin offers an incredible view of the fjords and can only be reached by climbing a challenging Via Ferrata route. This exhilarating adventure provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Trolltunga from a truly unique perspective.
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View Trolltunga on a map with the the closest popular places nearby
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Discover more travel spots to explore around Trolltunga
❄️ Glacial landform spots ⛰️ Hill spots ❄️ Glacial lake spots ⛰️ Highland spots ⛰️ Hill station spots ⛰️ Mountain range spots 🌋 Crater lake spots ⛰️ Summit spots ❄️ Fjord spotsAt about 1,100 metres above sea level and about 700 metres above the famous Lake Ringedal, Trolltunga is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular rock formations in Norway. Trolltunga, which means 'troll's tongue' in Norwegian, is situated at the western end of the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, near the small town of Odda. The strange rock formation and the valley below it have their present form thanks to the huge ice sheet that covered most of Scandinavia during successive ice ages. Every year, tourists from all over the world visit the area and follow the famous hiking trails to the rocks, where they can take photos in front of the impressive cliffs. When to go The hiking season runs from 1 June to 31 August. Experienced hikers can go alone on this route, but it is always advisable to be accompanied by a guide. It is advisable to set off on your hike before 8am so that you can be back before dark. If you are hiking the trails during the winter season (1 October to 31 May), we always recommend that you go out with a guide. Some agencies offer guided tours with snowshoes or skis, so you can enjoy the snow-covered landscape of Trolltunga. Trolltunga Safety Wheel Duration: 10 to 12 hours The high mountain trek to Trolltunga (1,180m above sea level) is a long and challenging one (both physically and mentally). You will need to be properly equipped and fit to embark on this adventure. If you are brave enough to take on the challenge, stunning views await you. From Skjeggedal, the main starting point, the round trip is 28km with an altitude difference of approximately 800m. So be prepared for a 10-12 hour hike, including rest stops. Starting from Mågelitopp, the round trip is also 20 km and the altitude difference is about 320 metres. The hike should take between 7 and 10 hours. Information panels along the way show the remaining distance to Trolltunga and the distance back to the starting point. It is advisable to allow at least two days, as it is more likely that you will be able to carry out the route in good weather. Trolltunga is surrounded by steep cliffs and there are no protective barriers, so please keep a safe distance, especially in fog. A fall from the cliffs can be fatal, so please take extra care.
Discover Trolltunga in Norway
This breathtaking cliff is perched about 1100 meters above sea level and overlooks the Ringedalsvatnet lake at a height of 700 meters. This cliff prominence belongs to the Norwegian county of Vestland, east-southeast of Bergen
Trolltunga is relatively difficult to reach and is for people in good physical condition.
To admire this masterpiece of nature, go to the county of Hordaland, 180 km east of Bergen (or 350 km west of Oslo).
You will then have to leave Skjeggedal for the high mountain trail.
The hike takes 4 hours and is punctuated by multiple sites, including the Ringedal Dam and the Rullestad circular caves.
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