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Trollkyrkja Cave

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Trollkyrkja, which translates to 'The Troll Church,' is a unique cave system consisting of three marble and limestone caverns located in the mountains near Elnesvågen. These natural structures were hollowed out over thousands of years by underground streams that gradually dissolved the marble bedrock, creating smooth passages and large chambers. The centerpiece of the lowest cave is a memorable 14-meter-high subterranean waterfall that plunges into a white marble pool, naturally illuminated by a hole in the cave ceiling. A second cave also features a smaller waterfall, while the uppermost cave consists of narrower cracks and winding passages. Geologically, Trollkyrkja is a significant example of karst topography in Norway, showcasing the rare beauty of white marble caves compared to more common limestone formations. The hike to the entrance takes about an hour through steep terrain, rewarding visitors with a mystical atmosphere that has inspired local legends and folklore for generations.

Location: Norway
Top sights: Osen dyrefredningsområde · Bergtatt Opplevelser · Mjølkberget
Nearby: Farstad (11 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	1	2	5	8	11	14	14	11	7	4	2
Rain mm	153	133	128	100	98	118	128	145	170	140	155	174

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Trollkyrkja Cave is a natural monument accessible after a hike through the valley. Entry is free, but the cave is unlit, so bring a flashlight.

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Typical hours

The cave is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October. Snow and ice may block the path in winter.

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Photography

Photography is allowed freely inside the cave and the surrounding area. A tripod can be helpful in low light to capture the underground waterfalls.

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Time needed

The hike to the cave and back takes about two to three hours. Allow an additional hour for exploring the cave and the waterfalls inside.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a hike through the Trollkyrkja valley. Nearby are a mountain lake and further trails in the Trollheimen range.

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Getting there

The trailhead is located on the road between Sunndalsøra and Oppdal. Park at the designated lot and follow the marked path to the cave.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing as the cave is wet and slippery. A helmet is recommended since the ceiling is low in places.

Geography

Coordinates

62.90100, 7.31800

Facts

The cave system comprises three separate levels or chambers.
The main waterfall in the first cave has a total drop of 14 meters.
The caves are carved out of marble, which is rare for Norwegian cave systems.
The hike to the cave entrance involves an ascent of approximately 400 meters.
Flashlights are essential for visitors as the inner passages receive no natural light.
The caves were formed through the long-term erosion caused by an underground river.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Farstad11 km · NWExplore →

Molde Cathedral20 km · SWExplore →

Falkhytta24 km · SWExplore →

Kristiansund31 km · NEExplore →

Byskogen34 km · NEExplore →

Ona40 km · WExplore →

Midsund41 km · SWExplore →

Åndalsnes42 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Trollkyrkja Cave (3)

Osen dyrefredningsområde🌿 nature

A nature reserve located near the Trollkyrkja cave in Norway.

Bergtatt Opplevelser🏛 museum

A visitor centre offering underground boat trips in a marble mine.

🌐 berg-tatt.no

Mjølkberget🌿 nature

A viewpoint with broad vistas over the landscape near Trollkyrkja.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Trollkyrkja?

A system of three marble caves with underground waterfalls and rivers near Fræna.

How strenuous is the hike there?

It's a moderately difficult hike of about 1.5 hours uphill on a marked trail.

Do you need special equipment?

Good hiking boots and a strong flashlight or headlamp are absolutely necessary for the caves.

What can you see inside the caves?

In the lowest cave, a waterfall plunges 14 meters into a white marble basin.

Is entrance free?

Yes, access to Trollkyrkja is free and possible year-round at your own risk.

Trollkyrkja Cave: where is it located?

Trollkyrkja Cave is located in Norway.

Trollkyrkja Cave: what is there to see?

Highlights include Osen dyrefredningsområde, Bergtatt Opplevelser, Mjølkberget.

Trollkyrkja Cave: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Trollkyrkja Cave: why is it worth visiting?

Trollkyrkja, which translates to 'The Troll Church,' is a unique cave system consisting of three marble and limestone caverns located in the mountains near Elnesvågen.

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