Telemark – a cycling paradise

Looking for cycling routes in Telemark? Here you’ll find everything from easy rides along the coast of Grenland and family-friendly routes along the Telemark Canal and through gentle forest terrain, to more challenging mountain biking in places such as Gautefall, Rjukan and Gausta. This guide is for anyone who wants to experience Telemark’s nature and culture by bike.

The routes are organised by activity level and location, making it easy to find one that suits you. You’ll also find suggested routes and practical tips for planning your trip, including places to stop along the way – whether you’re heading out for a short ride or planning a multi-day cycling adventure in Telemark.

Easy-going cycling along the Telemark coast

Telemark has plenty of cycling routes for families and anyone looking to explore at a more relaxed pace.

Along the Telemark coast, you’ll find cycling routes close to the sea, rocky shores and plenty of places to stop along the way. With relatively short distances between attractions and activities, these routes are ideal for leisurely day trips, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, food and relaxing breaks.

The Bamble Coastal Trail is one of Telemark’s easiest coastal routes to explore by bike. Following trails and roads along the sea, you’re never far from swimming spots, toilets and viewpoints. With several possible starting and finishing points, the route is flexible enough for anything from a relaxed day trip with plenty of stops to a longer trip with an overnight stay. This makes the area a great choice for families and groups of friends looking for a social and varied cycling experience.

Jomfruland is ideal for cycling, with flat terrain, little traffic and short distances. Gravel roads take you through open landscapes with the sea on either side. The island is a great choice for families, as well as anyone looking for a leisurely day out with plenty to experience along the way.

In areas such as Drangedal and Treungen, you can cycle through peaceful forests and rural landscapes. With little traffic and easy-to-follow routes, these areas are particularly well suited to families with children.

Best for: Families, beginners and anyone looking for easy cycling
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Nature, lakes and swimming spots
Area: Grenland, Kragerø

The Telemark Canal Route – part of National Cycle Route 2

Along the Telemark Canal, you’ll cycle through varied terrain past locks, lakes and small towns. The sections between Ulefoss and Lunde, and onwards towards Dalen, can be divided into shorter stages, making it easy to adapt the route to suit your plans.

We recommend allowing two to three days to cycle the full 115-kilometre marked route from Ulefoss to Dalen. Along the route, you’ll pass historic locks, cafés, farm shops and viewpoints that provide plenty of opportunities to stop and take a break.

Best for: Adults, experienced cyclists and history enthusiasts
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: Nature, lakes, swimming spots and history
Area: Mid-Telemark, Tokke

Challenging bike rides

If you’re looking for more speed, steeper climbs and technical sections, Telemark has plenty of options. These routes take you through varied terrain and require a higher level of both fitness and riding skills.

At Gautefall, you’ll find excellent terrain for trail riding, with everything from flow trails and forest trails to more technical sections. This makes it easy to choose a route that matches your skill level, whether you’re looking for a short ride or a full day on the bike.

The Gausta area offers mountain biking in open mountain landscapes. An e-bike makes it possible to cover greater distances and explore routes that would otherwise require more effort. The combination of mountain terrain and spectacular views makes cycling here very different from the routes in the lowlands.

Rjukan and Lifjell also offer plenty of options for those looking for more of a challenge. Expect longer routes, steeper climbs and sections that require good bike-handling skills, combined with impressive views of mountains, valleys and lakes.

If you prefer road cycling, the old road between Kragerø and Porsgrunn is a great alternative to the main road. The route takes you through varied coastal scenery with less traffic, passing places such as Valle and Langesund in Bamble.

These rides offer a greater challenge and require a little more planning when it comes to equipment, weather and route choice.

Best for: Active adults and experienced cyclists
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: Trails, mountains and road cycling

Cycling through Telemark’s culture and history

One of Telemark’s greatest strengths is its combination of nature and culture. Many cycling routes take you through places rich in history, with plenty of local experiences to discover along the way.

Along the Telemark Canal, you’ll cycle not only through beautiful scenery, but also through an important part of Norway’s industrial history. The locks, canal boats and small towns along the route bring the story of the canal to life, while also providing plenty of places to stop, explore and enjoy something to eat.

Sogevegen is another route where history and culture are an important part of the experience. As you cycle through this historic landscape, you’ll get a glimpse of how people have lived and used the land over generations. If you cycle the full 25-kilometre route, bring your swimwear and stop for a refreshing dip by the waterfall at Bygdemylla in Hjartdal.

In Rjukan and Notodden, you can combine cycling with exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the area’s industrial heritage and the communities that developed around it, while cycling through a landscape shaped by this history.

In Skien, cycling takes on a more urban character, with short distances between cultural attractions, places to eat and other experiences. It’s an easy way to combine exploring by bike with enjoying the town.

Best for: Couples, adults and culture enthusiasts
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: History, culture and local food

Plan your cycling trip in Telemark

The cycling season in Telemark runs from spring to autumn, but conditions and experiences vary throughout the year and across the region. Planning your trip around the season, your skill level and what you want to experience will help you find the right route.

In spring, conditions are generally best in the lowlands, particularly along the Telemark Canal and the coast, where you can enjoy the changing landscape with fewer visitors. Summer is the main cycling season, offering the best access to both the mountains and the coast, with more attractions and services open and plenty of opportunities to combine cycling with accommodation and other activities. Autumn brings quieter surroundings and colourful landscapes, but it’s a good idea to check opening hours before you set off.

Start by choosing the type of ride and level that suits you – whether you prefer an easy route along lakes and canals, road cycling at a faster pace or more challenging trails. It’s also worth planning a few stops along the way, as some of Telemark’s best experiences can be found right along the route, from swimming spots and viewpoints to places to eat.

Canvas Telemark – trail riding and wilderness in the heart of Telemark

Canvas Telemark is a wilderness hotel with yurts tucked away in the forest, created for those who want to experience some of Telemark’s best trail riding. Stay right in the heart of the terrain, with trails starting just outside your tent and direct access to an extensive network of mountain biking trails.

The camp is located two kilometres from the nearest road. Park where the road ends, then continue to the camp on foot or by bike. A member of the Canvas team will meet you at the parking area and take care of your luggage before you follow the trail into camp. Once there, you’ll find great food, experienced guides and everything you need for a multi-day stay.

After a day of riding, relax in the lounge or around the campfire, enjoy food cooked over an open fire, or unwind in the sauna and forest spa. There’s also a bike workshop and washing facilities, so you can get your bike ready for another day on the trails.

The trails cater to different skill levels, from easy flow trails to more technical sections. Ride across smooth granite, forest trails and wooden boardwalks, following the natural lines of the terrain along the way. The varied riding makes it easy to develop your skills and take on new challenges throughout your stay.