Notodden Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Notodden, Norway with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, food to try, and more!


Introduction to Notodden

Notodden, located in Telemark, Norway, is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of natural beauty and industrial charm. The town is known for its importance in Norway’s industrial history and is also home to several cultural and natural attractions. With a range of activities to choose from, Notodden is an ideal vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Notodden

Notodden has a variety of places to visit that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum: A historical museum that offers a glimpse into the lives of the industrial workers of Notodden.
  • Heddal Stave Church: A majestic stave church that dates back to the 13th century and is an excellent example of medieval architecture.
  • Telemark Canal: A series of beautiful waterways and locks that are over 100 years old and create an idyllic setting for a leisurely boat ride.

Natural Attractions of Notodden: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gaustatoppen: The highest mountain in the Telemark region that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Heddalsvannet: A stunning lake that offers a peaceful retreat for fishing and swimming.
  • Notodden Blues Festival: A music festival that is held annually in early August, attracting an international audience with its impressive lineup of blues musicians.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Notodden

Notodden is home to several fantastic hiking and biking trails that provide spectacular views of the surrounding scenery. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Rjukanfossen Trail: A 4-kilometer trail that takes walkers to the base of Norway’s largest waterfall.
  • Telemarkskanalen Cycle Route: A 150-kilometer biking route that takes cyclists along the historic Telemark Canal.
  • Gaustatoppen Summit Trail: A 4.5-kilometer hike that takes you to the peak of the highest mountain in the region.

Best Things to Do in Notodden: Activities and Tours

Notodden offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum Tour: A guided tour that takes you through the museum and gives you a glimpse into the lives of industrial workers in Notodden.
  • Telemark Canal Cruise: A leisurely boat ride along the historic Telemark Canal, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery and learn about the canal’s history.
  • Gaustablikk Ski Resort: A popular ski resort that offers a wide range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Notodden

If you have a week to explore Notodden, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum and learn about the town’s industrial history.
2 Take a boat ride along the Telemark Canal and enjoy the beautiful waterways and locks.
3 Hike to the top of Gaustatoppen and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
4 Visit the Heddal Stave Church, considered one of the best-preserved stave churches in Norway.
5 Relax by Heddalsvannet and enjoy the peaceful setting.
6 Attend the annual Notodden Blues Festival, held in early August.
7 Ski or snowboard at the Gaustablikk Ski Resort during the winter months.

Food and Drink Scene of Notodden

Notodden has a varied food and drink scene, with plenty of options to suit all tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rakfisk: Fermented fish that is typically served during the colder months.
  • Klippfisk: Dried salted cod that is a staple in Norwegian cuisine.
  • Fårikål: A lamb and cabbage stew that is traditional Norwegian comfort food.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit: A distilled spirit that is flavored with herbs and spices and is popular throughout Scandinavia.
  • Karsk: A traditional Norwegian drink made by mixing coffee with moonshine or aquavit.
  • Mathuset Brewery: A local brewery that produces a range of beers and ales.

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

Notodden offers a range of accommodations for all budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

  • Thon Hotel: A modern hotel located in the center of Notodden that offers comfortable and affordable rooms.
  • Coop Hotell: A cozy hotel that offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery and features a sauna and gym.
  • Vesleengen Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse with a garden and a terrace, located just outside of town.

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

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs to take home, here are some recommendations:

  • Handmade woolen sweaters: Notodden is known for its woolen products, and you can find beautiful handmade sweaters in the local shops.
  • Local honey: Telemark is home to several beekeepers, and you can find high-quality honey for sale in the markets.
  • Handmade ceramics: Notodden has a vibrant art scene, and you can find beautiful ceramics made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Notodden

Norwegians are known for their love for the outdoors and their appreciation for nature. In Notodden, hiking, biking, and skiing are popular activities, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beautiful scenery that the town has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Notodden

The best time to visit Notodden is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is the warmest, and the days are the longest. However, if you’re interested in winter sports, the ski season typically runs from December to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Notodden

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Notodden:

Do:

  • Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Respect nature and the environment by avoiding littering and respecting wildlife.
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Assume that all Norwegians speak English fluently.
  • Be disrespectful to the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Notodden is generally a safe and healthy destination, with no major health risks or safety concerns. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and insect repellent and being aware of your surroundings.

Safety in Notodden

Notodden is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, visitors should take usual precautions, such as locking their doors and windows and securing their belongings.

Health in Notodden

Norway has a high-quality healthcare system, and visitors should have no trouble accessing medical services if needed. However, it’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Getting to Notodden: Transportation Options and Logistics

Notodden is easily accessible from other parts of Norway and Europe. Here are some transportation options:

  • Airports Near Notodden: The closest airport is Torp Sandefjord Airport, located about 90 kilometers away. Oslo Gardermoen Airport is also within a reasonable distance from Notodden.
  • Bus Stations Near Notodden: Notodden has a bus station, and there are frequent bus services connecting the town with other parts of Norway.
  • Other Options: You can also drive to Notodden or take a train to the closest station, which is located in nearby Kongsberg.

How to Get Around in Notodden

Notodden is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. There are also several taxi services, bike rentals, and car rental agencies for those who prefer to have their transportation.

Where to Go Next from Notodden: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Notodden is an excellent base for exploring other parts of Norway and the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Rjukan: A charming town that is home to several natural and historical attractions, including the Rjukanfossen waterfall and the Vemork heavy water plant.
  • The Hardangerfjord: A stunning fjord that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and is home to several charming towns and villages.
  • The Telemark Canal: A series of beautiful waterways and locks that connect Notodden with several other towns and cities in the region.

Conclusion

Notodden is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of activities and attractions, catering to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of nature, history, or culture, Notodden has something to offer to everyone, making it an ideal vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.