A Massive Cliff, An Awesome Sight
Preikestolen, a Norwegian wonder, which translates to "Rock Pulpit , is also referred to as the Preacher's Pulpit. It is the pride of Stravanger’s tourist attractions. Near the town of Stravanger in Forsand, Norway, a strange wonder of solid rock rises to a staggering height of 2000 feet above Lysefjordan fjord. To view this breathtaking sight requires vim, vigor and a climber's peak stamina.
Attempting the Climb...Not for the Faint-Hearted
To reach Preikestolen, drive up to the tourist area parking area, at an elevation of 900 feet, where the adventure begins. The sign at the entrance rests against a granite marker, welcoming visitors with "Velkommen til Preikestolen". For convenience, a map shows altitude and the climbers' route to the peak. The view of the altitude on the map may give some tourists second thoughts. The trail commences here adjoining the summit of the rock terrace. The best sights at the peak of the fjord will take two hours of an interesting, at times, mildly treacherous climb. The emphasis on good physical condition cannot be understated; nor, can the need for proper hiking attire and climbing boots.
On Your Way, Brave Soul
The first part of the climb is through an pristine wooded area where the path is mildly rocky, though not yet strenuous. Climbers progress to a wide grassy culvert that tends to be a bit dewy and wet. For climbers' convenience, a long wooden pathway stretches ahead. The trail goes on to meet a small wooden bridge extending over a stream of sparkling water. Look over your shoulder. Large rocky cliffs through which the culvert passes are clearly impressive. When the wooden pathway ends, the climb begins in earnest. Numerous boulders from small to enormous line the next leg of the path.
Upward Ho And Away We Go!
The climb upward becomes more evident as the tourist tackles the next boulder-lined path. Huge nooks and crannies create an opportunity for a short rest and perhaps, an opportunity to begin to catch one’s breath. Note the trickling stream that gently follows along the curve of the cliff. If you’re thirsty, the water is perfectly pure for drinking. Once tourists cross the suspended bridge, the going becomes tougher. The view of the fjord below from this elevated level is just over the edge of the cliff and tourists may count themselves—"almost there". Just ahead is the jutting figure of Preikestolen with its flattened surface high above the fjord, quite a contrast from the rocky path below. The view here is spectacular. For photography buffs, it’s the grandest view possible. Note also the slight rise and fall at midpoint of Preikestolen as it reaches forward over the fjord far, far, below. By now, those with fear of heights have retreated to a less panoramic view of the drop down to the fjord. Perhaps, this group won’t want to miss the fissure in Preikestolen that slices through the rock all the way to the bottom of the fjord. After all, it’s only about two feet wide.
The Mortised Boulder
If there is one particular sight that should not be missed at Preikestolen, it’s a rather bizarre oddity known as the "Mortised Boulder"; literally, a boulder wedged between two detached sections of Preikestolen. There it sits hanging in mid-air, secured only by the strange position fitting it tightly between the two sides of the fissure. There are actually courageous tourists who venture down to be photographed standing atop the Mortised Boulder.
Hiking, Parachuting and Hang-gliding
As if hiking 2000 feet to the peak of Preikestolen isn't exercise enough, there is parachuting and Hang-gliding from the peak for those who dare.
Preikestolen, Fascinating, Awesome, Breathtaking, Amazing
Norway, full of beauty and history, offers a unique opportunity to view the Scandinavian world from an unforgetable height. Preikestolen, with its fascinating Mortised Boulder, awesome rock climbing and hiking, breathtaking stratospheric views and amazing beauty is a world of Norwegian wonder.
