A Guide to Hiking Lilletopp - a short but rewarding hike
Lilletopp is a hidden gem located in the Haranger region of Norway. It's a beautiful and short hike in the little village of Tyssedal, close to the small town of Odda, that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hiking Lilletopp is a perfect afternoon activity, and you get stunning views for a small effort. If you're looking for a quiet and peaceful little hike, then Lilletopp is the perfect destination for you.
Getting to Lilletopp
Lilletopp is located in Tyssedal, a small village situated in the municipality of Odda in Western Norway. To get to the starting point of the trail, you'll need to take a 10-15 minute drive from the center of Odda. The trailhead is located on the road going to Skjeggedal, on the road to our famous Trolltunga. Easiest is to park your car at the parking lot known as P1 and then hike along the road leading to Skjeggedal. At the first turn to the north there is a signposted path to Lilletopp. Another option is to park your car at the trailhead, but it can sometimes be challenging to find an available parking spot here.
If you prefer going by bus you can also take the bus from Odda bus station and jump off at “Skogly snuplass” which is located just by the parking lot P1. Another bus stop is Tyssedal rutebilstasjon, which will leave you a longer, but still doable, hike. You can find the different timetables here: https://www.skyss.no/en/
The Hike
The path up is signposted and well laid out with steps, railings and stairs. It takes about 30-40 minutes to get to the top. It is a constant uphill that is not too steep. The trail is well-marked, but sturdy hiking shoes are recommended due to some rocky sections. It is suitable for hikers of all levels and even quite family friendly.
Once at Lilletopp
Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Folgefonna glacier, Hardangerfjord, and the surrounding mountains. There's a small cabin at the top that in the summertime is a café, making it the perfect spot to rest and enjoy the view while having a snack or a cup of coffee. Behind the café is a small ladder that can be climbed to reach an even more impressive viewpoint, but this is at your own risk since it is lacking fences and railings.
You can enhance your visit to Lilletopp in the summertime by taking a guided tour of the old water tunnels. These tours are available daily during the season for NOK 60, and start at 1 pm and 4 pm. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the history of hydropower generation in the area and showcase pictures of the challenging construction process of the power plant.
In just two years, engineers and construction workers successfully harnessed the power of water from Hardangervidda to generate electricity that was then used to power local fertilizer and carbide factories. These tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the impressive engineering feats of the past while exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of Lilletopp. Don't miss out on this chance to deepen your understanding of the area's history and natural wonders.
Final Thoughts
Hiking to Lilletopp is a truly rewarding experience that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it suitable for almost everyone. If you're looking for a short, easy and peaceful hike away from the crowds, then Lilletop is the perfect destination for you. So pack your backpack, grab your hiking shoes, and get ready to embark on a short adventure to one of the best short hikes in the area. A beautiful hidden gem that is popular among the locals.
All photos by: @kaptenhall
