Excursion A trek to hovsåsen viewpoint tour at Vik

If you appreciate exceptional natural scenery and the invigorating challenge of a self-powered trek, this outing fits the bill perfectly. Led by an experienced local guide who knows the region well, you’ll ascend to a stunning green viewpoint on Hovsåsen Plateau and enjoy a hotel-crafted box lunch up there before descending back to sea level some 4.5 hours and 7.5 mi /12 km later. Along the way, two very ancient landmark churches – one of wood, one of stone – will be among the sights encountered.

Your trek begins at sea level and eventually reaches about 1,000 ft /300 m at the high point. Starting out from the pier, you’ll first make a brief stop to pick up your water and food at the Blix Hotel in Vik before heading out into the pastoral Vestland terrain. During a fairly steep 90-minute ascent, you’ll pass the two 11th-century landmarks – Hopperstad Stave Church and Hove Stone Church – along with burial mounds and other fascinating sights. Enjoy a 30-minute lunch break and the opportunity to capture fantastic photos of the village from high atop the plateau before the return descent begins – leading you through a lush rural landscape shaped by the vast glaciological forces of the Ice Age.

Some 90 minutes later, you’ll be back at the ship – tired perhaps, but energized for sure.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: hike to Hovsåsen Plateau viewpoint, Hopperstad Stave Church, Hove Stone Church

Note

Please note: This adventure activity involves extensive walking over natural terrain, approximately 7.5 mi / 12 km in total, with an altitude gain of about 1,000 ft / 300 m. Guests must be in good physical shape to participate and length of the excursion may vary according to group’s overall conditioning. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking /hiking shoes; bring your preferred sun and wind protection. Bottled water and a boxed lunch of sandwiches, fruit, and Norwegian chocolate will be provided by the Blix Hotel at beginning of hike. The order of sights and activities may vary. This tour may be canceled should weather conditions be unfavorable.