Telemark is a classic slice of Norway that stretches from the coast to the high mountain peaks. You find yourself at the Telemark Canal where the roads follow the water as it winds through the locks at Vrangfoss. The landscape is a mix of deep valleys and vast forests that are perfect for a backroad adventure. It is a place of wild nature and quiet mountain lakes.
A journey here takes you along winding roads that lead from the rocky coast of Kragerø up to the snowy summits. You can climb the massive Gaustatoppen mountain for a view that covers a huge part of the country. The landscape is a mix of sunny islands and the high altitude wilderness of Rjukan. It is a region that feels traditional and untamed.
The route takes you through the heart of the mountains where you find the massive Heddal Stave Church. You can explore the plateau of Hardangervidda or relax by the coast in the Jomfruland national park. The roads are a joy to drive with constant changes in the scenery. Telemark is a region of grand adventure and beautiful views.
Telemark highlights
- Gaustatoppen Peak Hike or take the mountain train inside the peak for a view of one sixth of Norway. The rocky summit is the highest point in the south.
- Heddal Stave Church See the largest timber stave church in the country with its three spires. It looks like something out of a medieval fairy tale.
- Telemark Canal Follow the historic waterway where stone locks lift boats through the hills. The scenic road along the canal is perfect for a slow drive.
- Rjukan Saboteur Trail Walk the path of the heroes who stopped the heavy water production during the war. The town of Rjukan is a world heritage site.
- Hardangervidda Center Learn about the arctic nature and the wild reindeer of the massive plateau. The museum is a great starting point for mountain trips.
- Kragerø Archipelago Explore the "Pearl of the Coastal Cities" with its thousands of islands and rocks. It has been a favorite for artists like Edvard Munch.
- Vrangfoss Locks Watch the largest lock system on the canal as boats are moved through the massive stone walls. It is an impressive engineering feat.
- Dalen Hotel Visit the "Dragon Hotel" from 1894 which is a masterpiece of ornate wooden architecture. The grand hall and gardens are a step back in time.
- Lifjell Mountains This mountain plateau offers easy hiking trails and panoramic views of the valley. It is a great spot for families and weekend trips.
- Norsjø Lake Enjoy the water sports and scenic campsites along the shores of this large lake. The surrounding hills are filled with apple orchards and farms.
The local Four
History of Telemark
Telemark is the birthplace of the Norwegian soul and the cradle of modern winter sports. In the deep valleys of Morgedal local farmers developed the techniques of skiing that would eventually conquer the world. This was a land of independent people who lived in timber houses decorated with "rosemaling" and told stories of trolls and mountain spirits. The region has always been a stronghold of traditional culture and national identity.
During the industrial revolution the town of Rjukan became the site of a massive engineering miracle. A giant hydroelectric plant was built into the side of the mountain to power the production of fertilizer for a growing world. This plant later became the target of the most famous sabotage mission of World War Two. A small group of local men crossed the snowy plateau to destroy the "heavy water" that the Nazis needed for their nuclear dreams.
The Telemark Canal was carved into the hills in the late 1800s to link the mountains to the sea. It was called the "eighth wonder of the world" at the time as it lifted ships through the landscape using massive stone locks. Traveling through Telemark today is like moving through a living museum of Norwegian history. From the dragon spires of Heddal Stave Church to the industrial pipes of the mountains the history is everywhere.