This is how Norwegians get married

The spectacular rock outcrop that hangs 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet in Skjeggedal has long been a popular tourist attraction for visitors from all over the world.

Now, you can even say “I do” in these airy surroundings.

The world's first wedding on Trolltunga

In summer 2021, four couples hiked the long trail to the top and made history on Trolltunga. In 2017, The mayor of Ullensvang municipality, Roald Aga Haug, came up with the idea of marrying couples on Trolltunga. In 2021, the municipality finally held the first ceremony.

It was a real Scandinavian party. Two Norwegian, one Danish and one Swedish couple said, “I do” at ceremonies officiated by the local mayor. Musician Sarah Melkeraaen sang and played the fiddle and saxophone.

Mayor Haug thought the whole thing was magical and describes the atmosphere as "enchanted". Fortunately, the forecast rain never arrived, and the bride and groom were able to complete the wedding ceremony in beautiful conditions.

"It was unreal. Getting to marry couples up here at Trolltunga, while Sara played the saxophone, was a very special experience," says Haug.

The couples had to work for the experience. They had to hike the long trail up themselves, while their outfits were flown up by helicopter. The couples enjoyed the 8-hour hike up, and everyone managed to put on their finery at the top. The weddings were such a success that Ullensvang municipality arranged a marriage ceremony the following year, and everything indicates that this will be an annual tradition.

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A wedding night in airy surroundings

If you want to make the big day even more special, you can sign up for a guided tour with Trolltunga Active.  The experience includes overnight accommodation in an amazing dome, with windows affording spectacular views of the beautiful nature. In the camp, good food and drinks from local producers are served, and bonfires are lit, weather permitting. A good breakfast awaits along with an unforgettable sunrise. Trolltunga Active also strives to cater to any special requests you may have. 

Anyone can get married on Trolltunga

If you are tempted get married on Trolltunga, you must contact the local municipality to register. The wedding ceremony is free, but there are a limited number of ceremonies. Check Ullensvang municipality's website to see which dates are available. You must also remember to apply for a certificate from the Norwegian Tax Administration. If you or your partner are a foreign citizen, it is advisable to take care of the formalities well in advance - it can take up to 5-6 weeks to get a certificate. 

A hike you can take all year round

Hiking to Trolltunga is a real experience, even if you aren’t headed towards your own wedding ceremony at the top. The hike is mostly through high mountain terrain, but starts along a gravel road. This first section is steep, and can be a difficult start to the hike, but as soon as you get up on the mountain and start hiking in beautiful scenery, your mood lightens, and you forget the exertion. The trip across the Hardangerfjord is long. If you start at the bottom, it is a 27-kilometre walk, and has an 800-metre elevation. The trip takes between 8-12 hours both ways, including breaks. The effort is always worth it. The view that awaits at the top is one of the most beautiful and powerful things you can witness.

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Remember to bring plenty of food and drink

In principle, you can hike up Trolltunga all year round, but during the winter months from 1 October to 31 May you have to go with a guide. It is also important to remember that the hike is classified as a demanding trip. There are many hikers who underestimate the mountain, and overestimate their own abilities. Every year, the rescue teams help hikers down from the mountain. You must always bring along enough food and drink, as well as good hiking boots and warm clothes. Always remember to check the weather forecast. If there is a lot of fog and rain, you should postpone the trip.

Staying overnight

If you don't want to sleep in your own tent, there are several options for accommodation. Fjordtours offers, among other things, glamping accommodation in a dome on Trolltunga, surrounded by incredible views of the Hardangerfjord. 

There are several hotels to choose from near Trolltunga, each with its own charm. One excellent local option is Tyssedal Hotel, a charming and historic boutique hotel with roots dating back to 1912. The hotel is also the closest one to Trolltunga and is near several other attractions. 

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