The Story Of Torghatten, Norway’s Mountain With A Hole
by David Nikel · ForbesTorghatten, a granite mountain on Norway’s scenic Helgeland coast, stands out with its distinctive bowler hat shape among otherwise low-lying islands. However, what truly makes this landmark famous is the massive hole that cuts through its center, a striking feature visible from miles away at sea.
Shaped by nature yet steeped in legend, this 846-foot-high natural wonder is a landmark for passing ships and offers panoramic views for keen hikers.
From the water, the hole seems small, but in reality, it stretches an impressive 525 feet long, 115 feet high, and 65 feet wide—large enough to fully explore once you go ashore.
Torghatten was primarily shaped by glacial erosion during the last Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago. Composed of resilient granite, the mountain withstood erosion better than the surrounding landscape.
However, as glaciers advanced, they exploited natural weaknesses in the rock, such as fractures and faults, gradually carving out the mountain’s distinctive tunnel-like hole.
Shrouded In Mythology
Such a distinctive natural feature has understandably been the subject of folklore for generations.
The most common tale also includes the reason for the nearby Seven Sisters mountain range, another eye-catching landmark along the Helgeland coast.
The troll tale features Hestmannen, the giant horseman, and his unrequited love for a maiden named Lekamøya. According to the story, the powerful giant fell in love with Lekamøya and pursued her across the Helgeland coast.
As the sun rose, Hestmannen realized he wouldn’t catch Lekamøya in time and, in rage, fired an arrow at her. The Troll King of Sømna intervened, throwing his hat in the arrow’s path to shield her.
The arrow pierced the hat, and as the sun turned them all to stone, the hat became Torghatten, with its iconic hole. Lekamøya and her sisters were also turned into stone, forming the well-known Seven Sisters mountains farther along the coast.
This mythical explanation behind the hole has helped Torghatten to become a beloved natural landmark and a point of fascination for both locals and visitors to Norway. Although the real formation of the hole is due to erosion during the Ice Age, the legend adds a layer of intrigue to any visit.
Hiking To Torghatten
From the ocean, Torghatten’s imposing presence makes it seem almost impossible that you can walk up to the cave, let alone how the hike is relatively easy.
But for those who venture ashore, a well-marked trail from the eastern side leads hikers up the mountain to the famous hole. The hike is a moderate one on mostly stone steps, suitable for most abilities, taking about 20-30 minutes each way depending on your pace.
Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with spectacular views both through the natural window formed by the hole and over the Helgeland coastline. Standing within the hole offers an unforgettable experience, as you look through this ancient geological formation out to the Norwegian Sea.
On the southwest wall of the entrance is King Oscar II’s signature, while King Olav V and King Harald V’s signatures are on the left side of the north entrance.
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes as the path is rocky, and take care when walking inside the cave, especially after rain, as the rocks can become slippery. It’s also possible to hike to the top of the mountain, but this is a much more demanding activity.
The Dark Side Of Torghatten
While Torghatten is a beloved natural landmark, it’s also the site of a tragic event. On May 6, 1988, Widerøe Flight 710, a scheduled regional flight, crashed into the side of the mountain while attempting to land at Brønnøysund Airport in heavy fog.
Sadly, all 36 people on board were killed. The accident remains one of Norway's deadliest aviation disasters and has left a somber mark on Torghatten's history.
Investigations revealed that poor visibility and navigational errors were key factors in the crash. A memorial now stands at the site, offering a place to remember those who lost their lives.
Practical Matters
The coastal city of Brønnøysund is the gateway to Torghatten. Located just 15 km from the mountain, Brønnøysund is accessible by road, air, or sea.
Visitors can fly into Brønnøysund Airport, which offers regular connections to Bodø and Trondheim, or arrive via the Hurtigruten and Havila coastal ferry routes, or the occasional cruise ship.
On the southbound coastal ferry and cruise ship port calls, guided hikes to the Torghatten hole are offered during the spring and summer, when the weather is more predictable and daylight is plentiful.