The Lysefjord in Ryfylke

The fjord stretches 42 kilometres inland, flanked by steep mountain walls that plunge into the clear, blue waters below. Experience unforgettable adventures—whether hiking to iconic viewpoints, climbing the 4,444 steps of Flørli's wooden staircase, enjoying a scenic boat tour, or exploring charming villages along the fjord. Lysefjorden is a destination that will take your breath away and leave you with memories for a lifetime.

The mesmerising mountains surrounding Lysefjord were sculpted by the massive ice sheets that covered Norway during the Ice Age. Along extensive stretches of the fjord, the mountains soar over 1,000 metres above sea level. The intricate geological features, landscapes, and loose sediments make Lysefjord a distinctive and unparalleled natural phenomenon.

Lysefjord holds the certification for Sustainable Destination, a quality mark for destinations that systematically work to reduce the negative impact of tourism on local communities.

Learn more about the Norwegian fjords:

Norway’s fjords – the most famous fjords

What is a fjord?

The little-known fjords you mustn’t miss

The best fjord cruises in Fjord Norway

Fjord cruises from Stavanger

You can experience Lysefjord all year round with fjord cruises departing from Stavanger by Rødne Fjord Cruise. Gliding through the majestic fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs, and passing landmarks like Hengjanefossen fall, Fantahåla, and the renowned Preikestolen standing 604 metres above, creates enduring memories. During the summer, you can join a day trip from Stavanger to the remote village of Flørli, where you can ascend the world's longest wooden staircase with 4,444 steps.

Ferries on Lysefjord

Kolumbus operates regular ferry services between Lauvvik and Lysebotn throughout the year.

During the main season, there are tourist ferries on the Lysefjord. Updated ferry information can be found here.

If you approach Ryfylke and Lysefjord from the south, you can take the ferry from Lauvvik to Oanes, where the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke begins. The car ferry operates on a fixed timetable, and there is no need to pre-book tickets.

Preikestolen and Kjerag

Lysefjord is an ideal destination for hiking. The most renowned mountain hikes in the area are the iconic rock cliff Preikestolen and the boulder at Kjerag. Both hikes are designated as Norwegian Scenic Hikes.

"Lysefjorden rundt" (hike around Lysefjord) is a highly popular signature hike meticulously selected, quality-assured, and warmly recommended by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). Additionally, Flørlitrappene and Kallaliklumpen in Flørli are worth visiting.

Accommodation along Lysefjord

There is an extensive range of accommodation options available across all price ranges along Lysefjord.

The impressive The Bolder, designed by Snøhetta, is situated in a breathtaking location offering spectacular views of Lysefjord.

Close by, in Forsand, you will find Gøysa Gard, where you can stay in farmhouse lodgings or rent cottages with fjord views. Another option is Lysefjorden Marina, providing waterfront apartments.

At the innermost part of Lysefjord, you will discover the DNT cabin Lysefjorden Turisthytte. This colourful tourist cabin, which features a restaurant with full service, is just 50 metres from the pier.

In the remote village of Flørli, located midway along the fjord, you can rent apartments, stay in a hostel, or spend the night in the old radio hut. There is also a campsite in the area in front of the café.

Preikestolen Camping is a short drive from Lysefjorden.

Lysebotn, Flørli, and Songesand

The power-producing village of Flørli has transformed from an agricultural and industrial community into a cultural village. Join a historical village walk through the area and listen to the incredible stories about the power station, water pipes, and the 4,444 steps along the pipeline. Hike up the Flørlitrappene (Flørli stairs) or explore the spectacular Kallaliklumpen. There are cafes and plenty of accommodation options in Flørli.

At the innermost part of Lysefjord lies the power-producing village of Lysebotn, which has supplied electricity to large parts of the country since the 1950s. This small village has around 10 permanent residents but Kjerag attracts a multitude of tourists and BASE jumpers from all corners of the world during the summer season. In the village, you'll find accommodation, cafes, a local shop, and tourist information. Here, you can rent bicycles, kayaks, and fishing equipment.

You can drive the Lysevegen road, with the 27 hairpin bends, to Sirdal from Lysebotn (winter closed road).

From Lysebotn and Flørli, you can take the ferry to Songesand, where you can drive across the stunning mountain landscape to Nes in Årdal.

Facts about the Lysefjord

Length: 42 km long

Minimum depth: 19 metres deep

Maximum depth: 456 metres deep

Nearby cities: Jørpeland, Sandnes, and Stavanger

Villages along the Lysefjord: Lysebotn, Flørli, Songesand, Forsand, Oanes

Most famous hikes: Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Kjerag, Flørli stairs, and "Lysefjorden rundt" (hike around Lysefjord)