FAQ
The Coastal Pilgrim Path, or Kystpilegrimsleia in Norwegian, is part of the St. Olav Ways – a network of pilgrimage routes leading to Trondheim, Norway. The coastal route also intersects with the Sunnivaleia, or Sunniva Path.
This journey follows Norway’s dramatic coastline, passing fjords, islands, islets, and reefs. It begins in Egersund and continues via Stavanger, Bergen, and Ålesund on the way to Trondheim. Nordic Pilgrim offers trips from Bergen to Selje – and back again to Bergen.
The Coastal Pilgrim Path is not a continuously marked trail, so most pilgrims combine boat, bus, and bicycle travel to reach key locations along the way.
More information: www.pilegrimsleden.no
The complete route covers approximately 1,080 kilometers, most of which is traveled by ferry. Because the coastal path is not a continuous hiking trail, most walks take place in and around key destinations along the route. The package that Nordic Pilgrim is ca. 360 kilometers, including ferries.
The Coastal Pilgrim Path is just one of several pilgrim paths in the Nordic countries. We offer hikes along five of them. Which one is best for you? We compare them on the About page.
The main mode of travel along the Coastal Pilgrim Path is by ferry. You can choose to hike at each stop, deciding for yourself how far and how often you walk. This makes it a very accessible route and a great introduction to the pilgrimage experience.
The biggest challenge is often coordinating ferry schedules – but we can help you with that.
A pilgrimage hike, especially the longer ones, can be physically demanding. Good training and proper equipment are essential. For some trails, we also recommend using hiking poles to help with balance and to reduce strain on your knees during climbs and descents – although not really necessary along this trail
Every country has its own SOS or emergency app, which you should install on your phone. This allows emergency services to track your location if needed. Make sure to add us as your contact, so we can follow your progress along the route. You can always call us if you need assistance.
Accommodation along the route ranges from simple cabins to small hostels and hotels, generally of a higher standard than on other pilgrimage routes. However, the quality can still vary, as the route is relatively new and accommodation options are still developing. For this trail, we mostly work with hotels.
Although the route passes through areas with some of Norway’s highest fjords, the hikes themselves only include moderate elevation changes. There is no climbing involved, only when you choose to go off-track.
The Coastal Pilgrim Path is generally accessible from May to September, though there are fewer boats and activities available in May and September.
You’ll need to book your journey to and from Norway yourself. These costs are not included in our prices. There are several ways to travel to Bergen, and finding the best or cheapest option can be a bit of a puzzle – we’re happy to help you with that.
You can also start your own search by visiting these websites:
Traveling by boat is an essential part of the coastal experience. When you book through us, we can help you arrange your ferry connections. You can also look up schedules yourself on:
Would you like to plan everything yourself? That’s possible. There aren’t many guidebooks yet (and those that exist are mostly in Norwegian), but the official website www.pilegrimsleden.no offers maps and useful information. The pilgrim centers along the way can also help you out.
Yes! A dedicated guidebook for cyclists is currently being written by Via Gaia.
Many pilgrims choose to travel with their four-legged friend – and this is possible! Most accommodations accept dogs, though it’s best to check beforehand. However, special rules apply when entering Norway with a dog, and certain breeds are not allowed into the country.
Thermos/water bottle, backpack, rain gear, warm clothing, good hiking shoes (preferably waterproof), first aid kit and blister plasters, passport. Trekking poles can be very useful. Also make sure you have valid travel insurance.
Some tips: Packing list for long-distance hikes – Outdooractive