Looking for your next great cycling adventure? Nissedal in Telemark deserves a place on your list. Here, you’ll ride through a landscape shaped by the Ice Age, with vast granite formations offering exceptional grip and riding conditions unlike almost anywhere else in Norway. You’ll also find challenging forest trails and scenic routes along Lake Nisser. Nissedal offers outstanding cycling for both mountain bikers and road cyclists.
A combination of natural forest singletrack and purpose-built flow trails, with short connections between routes and some technically challenging sections, makes the area suitable for both beginners and experienced riders looking to develop their skills at their own pace.
74 km of flow and progression
Mountain biking on Norwegian slickrock
If you enjoy technical mountain biking, Treungen and the surrounding area have some of Nissedal’s most exciting trails. Here, you’ll find vast expanses of exposed granite, often referred to as “Norwegian slickrock”.
The granite in Nissedal provides exceptional grip, allowing you to tackle steeper climbs and more technical descents than you might expect.
The area around Heimdalsheia is a highlight, with flowing trails winding across granite ridges and panoramic views of the lake.
Basecamp for trail riding: Norrøna Canvas Telemark
At Norrøna Canvas Telemark – several kilometres from the nearest road – trail riding takes centre stage. Experienced guides are available throughout your stay, and riders are divided into groups based on skill level, helping you get the most out of every ride. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one that’s set up for you and ready when you arrive.
The trails start right outside the camp, giving you direct access to some of the best flow trails in Telemark.
After a day on the bike, unwind in the wilderness spa and sauna, enjoy dinner cooked over an open fire, and spend the night in comfortable glamping tents.
With everything in one place, it’s easy to enjoy several days of riding without having to worry about logistics.
Canvas Telemark - bicycle rent
Heimdal, 3855 Treungen
Road cycling around Lake Nisser
If you enjoy covering mile after mile through beautiful scenery, the route around Lake Nisser is a classic. This approximately 120-kilometre ride takes you through picturesque villages, past white sandy beaches and beneath steep mountainsides.
One of the highlights of the route is the crossing aboard MF Fjone, Norway’s smallest cable ferry, which connects the eastern and western shores of the lake.
For those looking to cover longer distances, Nissedal is also a popular starting or finishing point for longer training rides to and from areas such as Grenland and Drangedal.
When is the best time for cycling?
Plan your cycling trip
• Maps and routes: Download GPX files before you set off, as mobile coverage can vary. Apps such as Trailguide and Strava can help you find the latest trail segments, including hidden gems regularly added by local riders.
• Difficulty: Nissedal offers everything from family-friendly gravel roads to black-graded trails that challenge even highly skilled riders.
• Food and drink: Bring plenty of water, as facilities are limited out on the trails. In the centre of Treungen, you’ll find two grocery stores and a seasonal café.
A cycling paradise in the heart of Telemark
Nissedal is much more than a cycling destination – it’s a place made for exploring on two wheels. Whether you want to tackle steep granite climbs or enjoy a leisurely ride along crystal-clear lakes, Nissedal offers cycling experiences you’ll remember long after the ride is over.
Ready to discover one of Norway’s most exciting cycling destinations? Pack your bike and head for Nissedal!
