Discover the Telemark coast

The Telemark coast stretches from Langesund and Bamble in the west to Portør at the outer edge of the Kragerø archipelago, offering some of Southern Norway’s most varied coastal experiences. Here, you’ll find long sandy beaches, smooth coastal rocks, small islands and lively summer towns – all within easy reach of one another.

Whether you want to spend the day at the beach, walk along the coast or explore the archipelago by boat, there are plenty of ways to experience the Telemark coast.

Beaches and swimming spots along the Telemark coast

The Telemark coast offers everything from long sandy beaches to smooth coastal rocks – perfect for warm summer days by the sea. Some swimming spots have facilities and shallow water that make them ideal for families, while others are more secluded, tucked away among rocky shores and small coves.

In Bamble, you’ll find several of the coast’s most popular sandy beaches, with family-friendly swimming spots and smooth rocks where you can enjoy the refreshing summer breeze.

Experience the Telemark coast from the water

Some of the best experiences along the Telemark coast are found out on the water. From a boat or kayak, you’ll get a completely different perspective on the smooth coastal rocks, islands and small coves scattered across the archipelago.

With Canal Boats Telemark, you can hire an electric cabin cruiser and explore the coast or the Telemark Canal at your own pace.

From Kragerø, Kragerø Taxibåt offers boat trips to Jomfruland National Park, one of the coast’s most distinctive natural gems. Combine your boat trip with a walk through the oak forest, a bike ride along quiet gravel roads or a break on the pebble beaches facing the open sea.

If you want to experience the archipelago even closer to nature, kayaking is a great option. Paddle quietly between islands and rocky islets, discovering small swimming spots along the way.

Stay by the sea

If you’d like to spend more than just a day exploring the Telemark coast, there are plenty of places to stay close to the sea. Along the coast, you’ll find everything from waterfront hotels to campsites, guest harbours and smaller places to stay with nature right on your doorstep.

In Langesund, Quality Hotel Skjærgården is a family-friendly hotel right by the water, with its own jetty and a large water park. Combine a seaside stay with swimming, spa time and short walks through the coastal landscape.

You’ll also find several campsites and guest harbours along the coast, where you can wake up to sea views and start the day with a morning swim. Many are within easy reach of beaches, walking trails and small coastal towns.

Further out in the archipelago, there are quieter places to stay, including the fishermen’s cabins at Sjøterrassen and guest houses on Jomfruland. Here, you can stay surrounded by the coastal landscape, just a short walk from smooth coastal rocks and pebble beaches.

Plan your trip along the Telemark coast with the map

Explore beaches, guest harbours, places to eat and things to do along the coast – and plan your own trip directly on the map.