Sometimes you discover a hike that isn’t overrun by tourists yet still gives you a spectacular view or photo opportunity. The Himakånå hike in Norway’s Nedstrand is one of those. It’s also called the mini Trolltunga because you can take a photo similar to the one there. The fun part? It’s a lot less crowded and one of the nicer hikes in the lesser-known Southwest of Norway, in the Rogaland region.
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Where is Himakånå located?
Himakånå is in southern Norway, in the Rogaland region, near the village of Nedstrand in the municipality of Tysvær. From the starting point you hike to a rock formation at 357 meters in elevation, with views over fjords, forests, and the shimmering Lysevatnet lake.
Rogaland is a region that sees fewer tourists, but it’s a great choice if you’re traveling to or from Stavanger and driving along the west coast.
The hike itself
The route is about 5.8 km out and back. We took a little over 2 hours, with breaks to take photos, eat a banana, and of course enjoy the view once you’re at the top. The hike is very manageable, even if you’re not a seasoned hiker. Along the way you walk across a farmer’s land (where you are welcome), so you’ll get visits from cows, sheep, and goats.
On the way you first walk through forest, later across open terrain. And then suddenly… you’re standing on top of a narrow cliff with views stretching over everything that makes Norway so beautiful. And hopefully you’ll have even better weather than I did.
It reminds many people a little of Trolltunga, but without the six hours of slogging and the mass tourism.
I found this hike to be one of the surprises of our trip through Norway. It’s not too long, not too difficult, yet it offers beautiful views. And because it’s (still) not a super well-known spot, you often have the summit almost to yourself.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike in Norway with a spectacular view, without hours of climbing, then Himakånå is truly recommended. And if you already know Trolltunga — or you’re specifically looking for an alternative — then this is a fun and easy option in the Southwest of Norway.
Legend of the petrified woman
There’s also a fun story behind the name Himakånå. According to a local legend, the rock is a petrified female troll. She turned to stone when the church bells started ringing — exactly what she had warned against. If you look closely, you might still see her face in the rock…
Trailhead & directions
Parking is very easy at the Joker store in Hinderåvåg. That’s also where the trail begins. You pay a few euros for parking, which is used to maintain the trail. From there, simply follow the “Himakånå” signs. The route is well marked. You start with a short stretch along the road, but soon you walk onto a farmyard where the ascent begins.
Advantage? When you’re done you can immediately buy something at the supermarket, provided you need anything of course.
See the Tysvær region below
