Norway’s famed mountain plateau known as Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, will become more easily accessible of promoters’ plans materialize for a gondola to a nearby peak. A gondola developer calls the plans “entirely realistic.”
Local initiator Pål Mitsem points to the success of a new gondola that runs up the side of another Norwegian mountain, the Loen Skylift. “They’re making money already, just a half year after opening,” Mitsem told state broadcaster NRK. “Preikestolen is an international icon. We can draw tourists from all over the world.”
Many Norwegians think there are far too many tourists heading up to Preikestolen already, some of whom end up needing help because they lack proper shoes. clothing or physical fitness for the hike. Elisabeth Saupstad, tourism director for Region Stavanger, called the project “absolutely exciting,” but added there were many factors to consider. “There already is a lot of pressure on Preikestolen,” she said.
The project, which would run from Eiane in Forsand, over the Lysefjorden and up towards Preikestole, would cost as much as NOK 200 million, if financing is raised and approvals granted.
newsinenglish.no staff
