Things to do in Telemark
Discover the best attractions and experiences Telemark has to offer
Historic Monuments
Telemark's history comes alive through industrial milestones and enduring sites that tell the story of Norwegian progress.
Rjukan–Notodden Industrial Heritage Site
A UNESCO-listed industrial landscape celebrating hydroelectric power and heavy industry, spanning Rjukan and Notodden.
Vemork Power Station
Historic hydroelectric plant at Rjukan, famous for its role in WWII and the heavy-water sabotage story.
Museums
Museum visits in Telemark offer insights into regional history, music, and industry.
Telemark Museum
A network of museums in Skien showcasing regional history, culture, and heritage.
Notodden Blues Museum
Museum dedicated to blues music heritage, located in Notodden.
The Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum
Exhibits about industrialization and hydroelectric power at the Vemork/Rjukan site.
Religious Monuments
Medieval churches and sacred architecture dot Telemark’s landscape, offering a glimpse into historic faith and craft.
Heddal Stave Church
Norway's largest stave church, set in a picturesque valley near Notodden.
Kviteseid Stave Church
A well-preserved medieval stave church in the Kviteseid area with intricate wood carvings.
National & Theme Parks
Telemark offers expansive natural lands ideal for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Hardangervidda National Park
One of Europe’s largest national parks, perfect for long hikes and wildlife watching.
Gaustatoppen Nature Reserve
Protected area around Gaustatoppen with alpine flora and panoramic views.
Neighborhoods
Explore the centers and districts that shape Telemark’s towns with their character and charm.
Skien sentrum
Historic city center with waterfront, shops, and cultural venues.
Notodden sentrum
Compact, vibrant town center known for festivals and museums.
Rjukan sentrum
Industrial-era town set in a dramatic valley with accessible viewpoints.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Telemark’s outdoor beauty and scenic walks without spending a dime.
Hike in Hardangervidda
Open trails across Norway’s expansive plateau with sweeping views and wildlife.
Telemark Canal promenade (Skien to Dalen)
Walkable paths along the historic canal offering tranquil scenery.
Stroll the Kragerø Archipelago coastline
Coastal walks and harbor views in a charming seaside town.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional flavors and fresh coastal produce from Telemark’s diverse regions.
Brunost tasting
Sample Norway’s iconic brown cheese with traditional accompaniments.
Lefse with brown cheese
Soft flatbread served with butter and brunost for a classic bite.
Kragerø seafood platter
Fresh local seafood highlighting the coastal flavors of Telemark.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with music, pubs, and coastal ambiance across Telemark’s towns.
Notodden Blues Festival (summer)
World-class blues music across venues with lively night scenes.
Skien riverside pubs
Casual bars along the river offering drinks and occasional live music.
Kragerø harbour nightlife
Coastal bars with sunset views in a historic archipelago town.
Entertainment
Festivals, theatres, and cultural venues celebrate Telemark’s creative spirit.
Notodden Blues Festival
An acclaimed music festival with multiple venues and evening shows.
Ibsen House (Skien)
Cultural venue honoring Henrik Ibsen’s early years and related exhibitions.
Telemark Museum events
Seasonal exhibitions and local cultural programs across the region.
Sports
Winter and summer sports opportunities abound in Telemark’s mountains and trails.
Rauland Ski Resort
Family-friendly slopes and cross-country trails in Vinje.
Gausta Ski Area
Skiing and snowboarding near Gaustatoppen with panoramic views.
Hardangervidda winter trails
Seasonal routes across the snow-covered plateau for adventurous hikers.
Off the Track
Seek hidden gems and lesser-known paths that reveal Telemark’s unique character.
Vrådal nature and village trails
Scenic forest trails and lakeside views in Vrådal.
Tinnoset Trail (Telemark Canal area)
Historic canal-side paths linking Skien and Dalen landscapes.
Rjukan Gorge walks
Dramatic gorge scenery with viewpoints and small waterfalls.