Telemark

Telemark

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

Part of these road trips

Follow the routes that cross this destination

The Scenic Route
The Heritage Drive
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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.
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