Platåfjellet Mountain
BookingLevel of Complexity:
Moderate, suitable for participants with a good fitness level
Number of Guests:
Min. 2
Max. 16
Price:
NOK 1,300 per person
Season:
Start: May 21
End: Apr 4
Duration:
4 hours
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Longyearbyen with a view
We start the tour with a drive up to the cable car station and the iconic cable car trestles that once transported coal from Longyeardalen to Hotellneset. Along the way, we take time to tell stories about the town and the people who have left their mark on this unique place. You will hear about the various mines here in Longyeardalen, and how Longyearbyen eventually became part of Norway.
View tour details
Longyearbyen from above
Platafjellet is the mountain rising directly above Longyearbyen, known for its characteristic flat top. From there you get a panoramic view over the town, Adventdalen and the surrounding fjords — one of the best views in the area, reached straight from town.
What you see along the way
The hike starts at the iconic cable car trestles that once carried coal down from the mines. Along the way you hear the story of the mining era and how Longyearbyen came to be, before the view opens up over the town, Adventfjorden and the mountains around it.
Safety on the tour
The hike is led by an experienced local guide who carries a rifle and the necessary safety equipment as a precaution against polar bears, as required on Svalbard. The pace is set by the group, and the guide assesses weather and conditions along the way.
Platafjellet or Sarkofagen?
Wondering which mountain hike to choose? Platafjellet is the shorter walk, focused on the view and the history right above Longyearbyen, while Sarkofagen takes you further in between the Longyearbreen and Larsbreen glaciers. Both are fine day hikes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Platafjellet hike?
A guided hike up the flat-topped mountain directly above Longyearbyen, with panoramic views over the town, Adventdalen and the fjords.
How long does the hike last?
The hike lasts 4 hours, from 17:00 to 21:00.
What does it cost?
NOK 1,300 per person.
How fit do I need to be?
The hike is moderate and suits participants in reasonable condition. Groups run from 2 to 16 people, and the guide sets the pace by the group.
Platafjellet or Sarkofagen?
Platafjellet is the shorter hike with the view over Longyearbyen. Sarkofagen is longer and takes you in between the glaciers.
Tour Details
We park the car and set off on the path that takes us up to Varden, which offers a great view. Here we take a short break before setting off on the last stretch towards the summit – the highlight of the trip. The trip has some steep sections and is suitable for those of normal physical fitness.
This trip is not very difficult and is a nice walk. The pace will be adjusted according to the shape and mobility of the participants. However, we recommend that you are in normal good shape. The trip is not recommended for those with reduced mobility due to the rough and somewhat steep terrain.
Due to a large number of rocks, we recommend wearing good hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support. We also recommend that participants wear or bring a windproof jacket. The innermost layer of clothing worn on the trip should be fleece or wool.
We lend out walking poles and shoe spikes, depending on your wishes and the guide’s recommendation. In winter, we lend out snowshoes and headlamps.
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Professional Guide
- Cookies, coffee and tea
What to bring:
- Windproof outer layer
- Backpack
- Hiking shoes
- Warm layer
- Travel insurance
