Telemark Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Telemark with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on top attractions, best things to do, hotels, and local culture.


Introduction to Telemark

Telemark is a region in East Norway, situated in the heart of the Nordic countries. It offers a mix of culture, nature, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Norwegian experience.

Telemark is known for its beautiful mountains, deep valleys, and clear lakes. It is also the birthplace of skiing, where the sport originated over 4000 years ago. Today, it still offers some of the best skiing opportunities in Norway. But there is more to Telemark than just skiing. The region has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its museums, historical sites, and local traditions.

This travel guide will take you through the must-see attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and local customs and culture of Telemark.

List of Places to Visit in Telemark

Telemark is a vast area with several small towns and villages worth visiting. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Telemark Canal

The Telemark Canal is a man-made waterway that stretches over 100 km, connecting several lakes and rivers. It was built in the 19th century as a transport route for timber and other goods. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic boat rides and unique engineering marvels, such as the locks and aqueducts.

The Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum

This museum showcases the industrial heritage of Telemark and its contribution to Norway’s industrialization. It houses several exhibitions on worker’s lives, machines, and tools used in the early days of modern industry.

The Skien Manor

The Skien Manor is a historic estate that was once the home of playwright Henrik Ibsen. It showcases the writer’s life and works, as well as his contribution to Norwegian literature.

Natural Attractions of Telemark: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gaustatoppen Mountain

Gaustatoppen is one of the highest mountains in Telemark, offering stunning views of the region. It is a popular hiking destination, with several trails suitable for all levels of hikers.

Rjukanfossen Waterfall

Rjukanfossen is a spectacular waterfall located near the town of Rjukan. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Norway, with a height of over 100 meters. It is a popular photography spot and a perfect place to spend a peaceful day in nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Telemark

Telemark has several hiking and biking routes that offer a combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

The Telemark Hiking Trail

The Telemark Hiking Trail is a 500 km-long route that stretches from the coast to the mountains. It offers a variety of terrains, from lush forests to rocky mountains, suitable for all levels of hikers.

The Rallarvegen Route

The Rallarvegen is a 80 km-long bike route that follows the historic Bergen line railway. It offers scenic views of the mountains, valleys, and waterfalls of Telemark.

Best Things to Do in Telemark: Activities and Tours

Skiing

Telemark is the birthplace of skiing, and it still offers some of the best skiing opportunities in Norway. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, there are several ski resorts to choose from, including the famous Rauland Ski Resort.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Telemark is blessed with several lakes and rivers, making it a perfect destination for kayaking and canoeing. You can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the region’s beautiful waterways at your own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Telemark

Here is a suggested, week-long itinerary for Telemark:

  • Day 1: Visit the Telemark Canal and take a boat ride.
  • Day 2: Explore the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum and learn about Telemark’s industrial heritage.
  • Day 3: Go skiing at Rauland Ski Resort.
  • Day 4: Hike to Gaustatoppen Mountain and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Day 5: Visit the Skien Manor and learn about playwright Henrik Ibsen’s life and works.
  • Day 6: Explore the Rjukanfossen waterfall and take some great photos.
  • Day 7: Take a relaxing bike ride along the Rallarvegen route.

Food and Drink Scene of Telemark

Telemark has a diverse culinary scene, with its local dishes and drinks being a part of its rich cultural heritage.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pinnakjøtt: This is a traditional dish made of salted and dried lamb ribs. It is usually served with root vegetables and potatoes.
  • Rømmegrøt: This is a porridge made of sour cream, flour, and butter. It is served with sugar and cinnamon and is a popular dessert in Telemark.
  • Rakfisk: This is a traditional dish made of fermented fish and is served with bread, potatoes, and sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Akevitt: This is a traditional Norwegian liquor made of potatoes and flavored with caraway. It is often served as a digestif.
  • Cider: Telemark is known for its apple orchards, and the region produces some of the best ciders in Norway.

Where to Stay in Telemark: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Telemark offers an array of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

  • Rauland Hogfjellshotell: This is a luxurious hotel located in Rauland offering stunning views of the mountains.
  • Dalen Hotel: This is a historic hotel located in Dalen, known for its classic architecture and elegant rooms.
  • HI Hostel Rauland Vandrerhjem: This is a budget-friendly hostel located in Rauland, offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

What to Buy in Telemark: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Røros Tweed: This is a traditional Norwegian woolen product that comes in various patterns and designs.
  • Tinn Pewter: This is a traditional handicraft that involves making items out of pewter. It includes plates, cups, and other decorative objects.
  • Knives and Blades: Telemark is home to some of the best knife makers in Norway, producing high-quality knives and blades.

Local Culture and Customs of Telemark

Telemark has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its local customs and traditions. Here are some of the most popular customs:

  • Bunad: This is a traditional Norwegian costume that varies from region to region. In Telemark, the bunad is mostly worn during weddings and other festive occasions.
  • Folk Music and Dance: Telemark has a thriving folk music and dance scene, with local musicians and dancers coming together to perform at festivals and other events.

Best Time to Visit Telemark

Telemark can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests.

  • Winter: Telemark is known for its skiing and other winter sports activities. The best time to visit for skiing is from November to April.
  • Summer: From June to August, Telemark offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Telemark

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take your shoes off before entering someone’s home.
  • Follow the rules of the hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t ignore the signs and warnings on the hiking trails.
  • Don’t take pictures of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Telemark

Telemark is a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions, such as keeping their valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Telemark

Telemark has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can access medical care easily. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Telemark: Transportation Options and Logistics

Telemark is easily accessible by train, bus, and car.

Airports Near Telemark

The closest airports to Telemark are:

  • Oslo Airport Gardermoen
  • Sandefjord Airport, Torp

Bus Stations Near Telemark

The major bus stations in Telemark are:

  • Skien Bus Station
  • Notodden Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Telemark by train or car. The nearest train stations are:

  • Skien Station
  • Notodden Station

How to Get Around in Telemark

Telemark has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis. Visitors can also rent cars or bikes to explore the region on their own.

Where to Go Next from Telemark: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Telemark is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in Norway, including:

  • Oslo
  • Bergen
  • Stavanger
  • Kristiansand

Conclusion

Telemark is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a lover of nature, culture, or adventure, Telemark has it all. This travel guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the region, helping you plan your trip to Telemark with ease.

Nisser lake in Telemark Nisser lake in Telemark Tinnsjø lake - with 460 m one of the deepest in Europe Tinnsjø lake - with 460 m one of the deepest in Europe Jomfruland pebble beach by Theodor Kittelsen Jomfruland pebble beach by Theodor Kittelsen Uplands at Seljord in March Uplands at Seljord in March Heddal stave church and locals in traditional costumes as seen by Flintoe in 1828. Heddal stave church and locals in traditional costumes as seen by Flintoe in 1828. Telemark has the largest number of preserved ancient log buildings in Europe. This ''loft'' is from the 13th century. Telemark has the largest number of preserved ancient log buildings in Europe. This ''loft'' is from the 13th century. Road E134 runs through pretty Flatdal valley. Road E134 runs through pretty Flatdal valley. Ulefoss locks at Telemark canal Ulefoss locks at Telemark canal MS Victoria sailing past Sundkilen bridge in the canal <small>photo: Tore Schrøder</small> MS Victoria sailing past Sundkilen bridge in the canal photo: Tore Schrøder Cross-country skiing at Blefjell in February Cross-country skiing at Blefjell in February


    Notodden
    Porsgrunn
    Rjukan
    Skien