Introduction to Trolltunga
Trolltunga is known as Troll’s Tongue and also is an exciting rock formation that just out horizontally from a cliff. Trolltunga is located in the municipality of Ullensvang in Vest land County, Norway. It is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the country and the scenes from its top are very beautiful and stunning.
The Trolltunga’s discovery is unknown but it is believed that it was discovered centuries ago. The Trolltunga was mentioned in 1990 by Anders Beer Wilse. It remained unknown until 2010 and then it began to gain popularity as a hiking destination.
Once you reach Trolltunga rock then you will see amazing views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys. It is the perfect destination to visit to take a break, enjoy a picnic and snap some beautiful photos. It is estimated that about 80k people visit this hiking destination each year.
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Height and Width
Officially height and width Trolltunga Norway is not declared yet but however, its height is over 700 meters above the Ringedalsvatnet Lake and its width is over 30 meters at its widest point.
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Hiking Trail
The hiking trail of Trolltunga is very challenging but it is also very much doable for most of the visitors. The trail is 11 km long and you can complete it in about 5-6 hr. The first few kms are a bit easy but after that it will become challenging as you move forward and the last few kms are very tough as the last part of the trail has sloped. There are also a few sections where you climb over rocks and boulders.
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How to Reach
The two nearest cities to reach Trolltunga are Odda and Tyssedal. Both cities are located in the municipality of Ullensvang in Vest land County, Norway. The Trolltunga hiking trailhead is about 20 km away from Odda and is about 13 km away from Tyssedal.
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Trolltunga Parking
If you want to visit Trolltunga, you need to plan ahead and know where to park your car. There are three parking lots for Trolltunga hikers: P1 Tyssedal, P2 Skjeggedal, and P3 Mågelitopp1. Each parking lot has a different fee, distance, and difficulty level to reach Trolltunga. Here is a brief summary of each parking option:
P1 Tyssedal: The cheapest parking lot is located 6 km from Odda at P1 Tyssedal. Parking costs NOK 300 a day. The hike is 38 kilometers round trip at an elevation of 2000 meters. It is estimated that the hike will take 15 hours. You can also take a shuttle bus to P2 or P3, but you must pay separately.
P2 Skjeggedal: You can park at P2 Skjeggedal 30 minutes from Odda, which is the main trailhead. You must pay a road toll and parking fee of NOK 500 per day. You have to hike 27 km return, climbing 1200 meters. It’s estimated to take 8-12 hours to get there. The shuttle bus to P3 isn’t cheap, but you have to pay separately.
P3 Mågelitopp: A steep private road leads up to this parking lot, which costs NOK 600 a day, and you have to book your spot in advance. This hike takes 20 km return and 800 meters to climb. Hiking time is 7-10 hours. You have to pay the toll at P2 before driving to Trolltunga P3 parking.
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Trolltunga Weather: Best Time to Visit
Weather at this hike varies over the year. From June to September the weather is generally the warmest with average temperatures from 5°C to 15°C. And October to May the weather is generally the coldest with average temperatures from -5°C to 5°C. The best time to visit Trolltunga is from June to September month as during these months the weather is sunny, little rain and snow free. But on the other side during these months it is crowded too.
Planning Trolltunga Adventure: What You Need to Know
If you are planning an adventure especially during summer vacations then one of the must visit places to consider is Trolltunga. And the Trolltunga tour would be an exciting experience for you. Or if you already planned and looking for Trolltunga tour guide then here are few important tips for you:
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Transportation
If you are taking a flight from your location to Norway then you must keep in mind that the nearest airports are Bergen and Stavanger Airport. After landing at either of both airports you can take a shuttle bus or rent a taxi to get to Odda or Tyssedal cities.
From Bergen Airport
From Bergen Airport to Odda city the distance is 135 kilometers and to Tyssedal the distance is 120 kilometers. The best and most economical way to reach Odda or Tyssedal from the airport is by shuttle bus. The bus stop is located outside the airport and every hour these buses depart from the airport. For tickets you have an option either you buy online or from the bus driver. There are direct buses and the journey takes about 2:30 hours.
If you have enough luggage and also have mobility issues then you need to consider a taxi from the airport to Odda or Tyssedal. Taxis are a bit more expensive than buses but on the other hand they are also more convenient. You can also book a taxi online.
From Stavanger Airport
From this airport to both cities all these things remain the same like Bergen airport except distance and journey time. The distance is a bit longer than Bergen airport. From Stavanger Airport to Odda city the distance is 170 kilometers and to Tyssedal the distance is 155 kilometers. And the journey takes about 3:30 hours to reach from the airport to these cities. Then it’s up to you whether you take a shuttle bus or rent a car.
Key Notes
For online bus tickets, visit the website of Skyss.
For online taxis, visit the website of Norgestaxi.
Insure your tickets in advance, especially during the peak season.
Check the weather conditions and dress accordingly.
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Accommodation Options and Details
In Odda City
Odda is a small town in Norway and located in the west but it has multiple options of accommodation to choose according to your budget.
Here are some of the most popular options:
Trolltunga Hotel
Trolltunga Hotel is located in the heart of Odda city and you can see amazing views of surrounding mountains. Also located within walking distance from the Trolltunga trailhead. The average per night stay charge is 120 USD.
Hotel Voringfoss
This hotel is located near Voringsfossen waterfall, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Norway. It also has a swimming pool and gym center. The average per night stay charge is 140 USD.
Hardangerfjord Hotel
Hardangerfjord Hotel is located in the heart of Odda and offers stunning views of the Hardangerfjord. Also located within walking distance from the Trolltunga trailhead. The average per night stay charge is 110 USD.
Bakkegata(Blue House)
This hostel is located in the center of Odda city and it is budget friendly too. It also offers a communal kitchen, lounge, and laundry. The average per night stay charge is 35 USD.
Vikinghaug:
This is a guesthouse not a hotel and located on a hilltop in Odda city. It also offers family rooms and apartments. The average per night stay charge is 100 USD.
In Tyssedal City:
This is a small village of Ullensvang in Vest land County, Norway. And located in an environment in a valley between the fjords to the west.
Here are some of the most popular options:
Trolltunga Guesthouse
This Guesthouse is located near the Trolltunga trailhead. It offers a variety of family rooms and apartments. The average per night stay charge is 120 USD.
Trolltunga Resort
Trolltunga Resort is located on a short drive from Trolltunga hiking. It offers cabins, tents, and RV pitches. Also has a communal kitchen, showers, and toilets. The average per night stay charge is 25 USD.
Hardangerfjord Hostel
It is located in the center of Tyssedal and offers dorm rooms and private rooms. Also has a communal kitchen, lounge, and laundry. The average per night stay charge is 35 USD.
Tyssedal Apartments
Tyssedal Apartments are located in the center of Tyssedal city and have multiple options of self-catering apartments. The average per night stay charge is 90 USD.
Key Notes:
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
Consider your budget and preferences of accommodation.
Location of stay also matters, so please keep this in your mind.
You can Book Hotel online from Here
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Trolltunga Camping Options
There are following trolltunga camping options near the hike:
Trolltunga Camping
It is the closest campsite to the Trolltunga trailhead. Just a 10-minute drive from the trailhead. The campsite offers cabins, tents and RV pitches. Also has a communal kitchen, showers and toilets. The average per night stay charge is 25 USD.
Vikinghaug Vikinghaug
This is a guesthouse as well as a camping area with cabins and tent pitches located in Odda, Norway, on a hilltop. The average per night stay charge for a tent pitch is 15 USD.
Skjeggedal Camping
This Camping is also located in Odda city and just a 10-minute drive from the Trolltunga trailhead. It offers cabins, tents, and RV pitches. The average per night stay charge for a tent pitch is 18 USD.
Maurvangen Camping
Maurvangen Camping is located in Tyssedal city and just a 5-minute drive from the Trolltunga trailhead. It offers cabins, tents, and RV pitches. It also has showers and toilets. The average per night stay charge for a tent pitch is 17 USD.
Tysso Camping
Tysso Camping is located in Tyssedal city and just a 10-minute drive from the Trolltunga trailhead. The average per night stay charge for a tent pitch is 16 USD.
Key Notes:
Book your campsite in advance, especially during the peak season.
Weather is unpredictable in mountain areas so be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
Bring all of your necessary gears for trolltunga camping.
Pack out all of your trash and Leave no trace.
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Hiking Gears
If you are going for hiking and especially long and challenging hiking like Trolltunga trailhead then hiking gears are very important for your safety and comfort.
Here are some important hiking gears for you:
Hiking boots:
The trail of Trolltunga is uneven and rocky so you need hiking shoes or hiking boots which provide you good traction and support during hiking. That’s why hiking shoes are essential for Trolltunga trailhead.
Hiking Pants:
Hiking pants are the second essential thing that you should wear during hiking because of more durability and comfort. These pants are typically made from synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon, which are more durable and breathable. They have many other features like pockets and water resistant coating. Pockets provide you more space to store many things like snacks and maps.
Hiking Shirts:
These shirts are also different from simple or casual shirts as these shirts are made from a breathable material like polyester or merino wool. These materials will help you stay cool and dry during hiking.
Rain Jacket:
A rain jacket is another essential thing for the Trolltunga hike, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. When you are choosing this then make sure that it should be waterproof and breathable.
Backpack:
To carry all of your hiking gear like food, water, and extra layers of clothing a backpack is very necessary for hiking. When Choosing a backpack for hiking then keep some of its features in your mind like the right size, strong material and easy to take.
Water Bottle:
Be careful about dehydration when hiking and it is very important to stay hydrated. And for all this you need regular water intake. So a water bottle is very essential and also it should hold enough water for the entire hike.
Snacks and Food:
To maintain your energy level during this journey is important and for this bring plenty of food for the Trolltunga hiking as it is long and challenging.
First Aid Kit:
It is not a bad idea to take a first-aid kit on any hike. The Trolltunga hike is not an easy task and challenging too. So please make sure to pack a first aid kit that contains all of the important supplies.
Attractive Places near Trolltunga
Here are few places located near Trolltunga and you can explore them when planning Trolltunga tour:
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Voringsfossen waterfall
Voringsfossen waterfall is just 10 km away from Trolltunga and one the highest waterfalls in Norway, with a drop of 182 meters or 597 feet. It has stunning views of glaciers and mountains.
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Hardangerfjord
Hardangerfjord is one of the long and deep fjords in Norway and is just 15 km away from Trolltunga. When you reach them you can also take a boat trip on the fjord to view amazing views of glaciers and mountains.
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Folgefonn National Park
Folgefonn National Park is just 20 km away from Trolltunga and it is the home to the Folgefonn glacier. This glacier is the largest glacier in mainland Norway. In this park there are many hiking trails available and also you can see the glaciers, mountains and waterfalls there.
Local Cuisine
Norway is famous for its fresh seafood, stews, breads and pastries. Here are a few local famous cuisine that you should must try during your Trolltunga’s tour:
- Fiskegrateng (Norwegian fish casserole)
Fiskegrateng is an amazing seafood dish and is made with shrimp, cod, and other seafood. Usually it is topped with white sauce and breadcrumbs. Typically served with boiled potatoes and vegetables.
- Lapskaus (Norwegian stew)
Lapskaus is a delicious Norwegian stew made with beef, rutabaga, potatoes, and carrots. And typically served with pickle beets.
- Raspeballer (Norwegian potato dumplings)
Raspeballer or potato dumplings are made with flour, eggs and grated potatoes. They are typically served with boiled fish and vegetables.
- Brunost (Norwegian brown cheese)
Brunost or Norwegian brown cheese is made from whey and cow’s milk. Its flavor is sweet and like caramel and typically eaten in breakfast or lunch.
FAQs
How difficult is the Trolltunga hike?
It is not very difficult but you can say it is a challenging hike. Because it is uneven, rocky and has elevation gain.
How much time does it take to hike to Trolltunga?
Though it depends on your fitness level and how long breaks you take, it usually takes 4 to 6 hours.
What is the best time to plan a Trolltunga tour?
The best time to hike the Trolltunga tour is during the summer from June to September. Weather conditions are generally mild and sunny during this time and the trailhead is snow-free.
Do we need a guide for Trolltunga hiking?
If you are an experienced one then you don’t need a guide. But if you didn’t experience hiking before then it is recommended.
Do hiking gears are important to hike Trolltunga?
Not only Trolltunga but wherever you are trying to hike any trailhead the hiking gears are very important and useful for your safety and comfort.
Are there any restrooms on the Trolltunga?
There are no restrooms on Trolltunga trail, so be sure to use the bathroom before starting hiking.
Is there cell phone service on the Trolltunga trail?
Limited cell phone service is available at Trolltunga trail, so it is not a bad idea to let anyone know where you are going.
Is camping allowed on the Trolltunga trail?
Camping is not allowed on the Trolltunga trailhead.
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