This excursion amid the Norway fjords isn't any ordinary hike. On the contrary, it's an adventure unto itself—a moderately difficult trek up one of the most beautiful trails in the world. And the reward, once you reach the endpoint at Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), is a viewpoint the likes of which is seen nowhere else on this planet. 

This is a self-guided seasonal excursion (May through October), but you won't be alone as this is one of the more popular spots in the country. The trip takes about five hours roundtrip on hilly terrain and includes time to enjoy and photograph the famous views from Pulpit Rock, which rises 1,981 feet (604 meters) above the Lysefjorden. 

For a more challenging experience, join a guide and visit Pulpit Rock a different way, taking little-known forest trails off the tourist map. Next, you'll cross a lake by canoe before hiking in near solitude to a stunning viewpoint above Preikestolen that few people ever get to see. Then, you'll head down to the plateau for a rest as you savor the sweeping panoramas of this singularly beautiful locale.

Read more about hiking excursions in Norway and other experiences near Stavanger.