Through Telemark by canal boat
Sit back and enjoy the unique scenery along the Telemark Canal from the deck of a historic canal boat.
During the journey, you’ll pass a total of eight lock systems and travel from the coast to the inland town of Dalen – around 150 kilometres away. Along the way, you’ll experience a varied landscape: from fertile farmland and wild nature to historic industrial sites and शांत, idyllic lakes.
Foto: Kåre Pedersen - visitsouthernnorway.com
Sunlight for Rjukan
Rjukan lies in a valley that remains in shadow from the surrounding mountains during the winter months. As early as 1913, the idea emerged to direct sunlight into the town using large mirrors.
It wasn’t until 2013 that this idea became reality: today, a computer-controlled mirror system reflects sunlight directly onto the town square, bringing light and life even during winter.
Foto: Trond Stegarud - visitsouthernnorway.com
Meet the “king of the forest”
In Telemark, you have the chance to get close to the “king of the forest”.
On a moose safari from Hovden, you can experience these animals in their natural surroundings. At Elgtun near Bygland, you can also meet tame moose on a guided tour. An on-site exhibition provides further insight into these fascinating animals – and the small jewellery workshop is also worth a visit.
Foto: Tilman Wischuf - www.naturfoto-wischuf.com
Experience Norway’s history
Norway’s stave churches are among the country’s most important cultural landmarks.
In Telemark, you can visit two particularly impressive examples: Eidsborg Stave Church in the west of the region and Norway’s largest stave church, Heddal Stave Church in Notodden. Step inside these historic buildings and experience their unique atmosphere while admiring the intricate wood carvings.
Foto: visitsouthernnorway.com
Experience Telemark from the water
Whether on the Telemark Canal or on one of the region’s many peaceful lakes, experiencing the landscape from the water offers a special perspective.
Canoeing allows you to get close to nature. On the canal, the locks add variety, while on the lakes you can enjoy the tranquillity and glide quietly through the scenery.
Foto: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life - visitsouthernnorway.com
Experience nature – freely
In Telemark – as in the rest of Norway – the right to roam (“allemannsretten”) applies. This means you can move freely in nature and experience it in your own way.
Whether camping by a mountain lake, picking berries in the forest or spending the night under the open sky in the mountains, there are almost no limits to your imagination. Only the weather may occasionally set the boundaries.
Foto: Haakon Nordby - visitsouthernnorway.com
