The Queen’s Trail (Dronningstien)

H.M. Queen Sonja’s Panoramic Hike

The Queen’s Trail (Dronningstien) is known as one of H.M. Queen Sonja’s absolute favorite hikes in Hardanger – and it is easy to see why. The trail runs through the high mountains between Kinsarvik and Lofthus, offering spectacular views of the Sørfjord, the Folgefonna glacier, and the Hardangerjøkulen glacier. This is a hike that combines magnificent nature, history, and world-class fjord views.

Across mountains and through orchards

This is a point-to-point hike of approximately 16 kilometers, generally taking 6–9 hours to complete. The terrain varies from high mountain plateaus to forests and lush fruit orchards. One of the highlights of the trip is the famous Monk’s Steps (Munketrappene) descending towards Lofthus – an impressive stone staircase built by Cistercian monks over 800 years ago.

The Queen’s Trail is a demanding hike with steep ascents, reaching up to 1,100 meters above sea level. The season usually lasts from June to October, depending on snow conditions.

Access from Vassel gård

From Vassel gård in Herand, you drive to Utne and take the ferry across to Kinsarvik, where the hike often begins (at Røte). Many hikers choose to park their car in Lofthus and take a shuttle bus to the starting point, so their vehicle is waiting for them at the finish line. After a long day in the mountains, it is a relief to return to the tranquility of Vassel gård.

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