Telemark’s Most Beautiful Hikes

Telemark is one of Norway’s most varied hiking destinations. From the high mountains around Gaustatoppen and the Hardangervidda plateau to the forested hills of Grenland and dramatic viewpoints overlooking the Telemark Canal, the region offers hikes for all levels and interests.

Here are some of the most beautiful hikes in Telemark, grouped by experience and difficulty.

Spectacular summit hikes in Telemark – for those who want a challenge

Some hikes demand a little more – and reward you with even more in return. These are the hikes for those who want to spend a full day outdoors, feel the effort in their legs and finish with a real sense of achievement.

Lårdalstigen is perhaps the most dramatic of them all. The long trail follows the mountains high above the Telemark Canal, with spectacular views of Lake Bandak for much of the hike. It’s a demanding full-day adventure, but also one of the most memorable hikes in the region.

Skorve, above Seljord, is a roughly 7-kilometre circular hike through challenging terrain. The trail is steep in places, but once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Seljord and the surrounding valley.

Gygrestolen in Bø offers a rewarding mountain hike through varied terrain. With several possible starting points and plenty of climbing along the way, you’ll get a real sense of height as well as beautiful views towards Bø and the Lifjell plateau.

These are hikes for those looking for more than a short afternoon walk.

Gaustatoppen – Norway’s most iconic mountain?

Gaustatoppen is perhaps Telemark’s most iconic mountain. Rising 1,883 metres above sea level near Rjukan, it offers views across vast parts of southern Norway on a clear day.

The classic route from Stavsro is rocky but not technically difficult, making it suitable for most hikers in good physical condition.
The return hike usually takes around 3–5 hours. If you prefer fewer people and a more varied hiking experience, there are alternative routes with longer approaches and fewer hikers.

It’s the combination of accessibility, altitude and spectacular views that makes Gaustatoppen so special. For many, it’s a true bucket-list hike – and one of the most popular hikes in Telemark.

Family-friendly hikes with plenty to discover

A great family hike is all about a sense of achievement, variety and having something exciting to discover along the way. Telemark has plenty of family-friendly trails where beautiful scenery and adventure go hand in hand.

Tretopper’n at Lifjell in Bø is a popular circular hike that gives you a genuine mountain experience without being too demanding – and children get to conquer three peaks in a single trip. Vasseventyret makes the walk even more fun and interactive, with water and installations to explore along the way. At Falkeriset near Rauland, you can walk through open, easy mountain terrain while enjoying beautiful views towards the Hardangervidda plateau.

These hikes offer memorable outdoor experiences without feeling too long or too steep.

The Bamble Coastal Path – hiking by the sea, rocky shores and secluded coves

The Bamble Coastal Path combines some of the best of Telemark’s coastline with hiking, sea views and plenty of opportunities for a swim after your walk.

Stretching for around 60 kilometres, the coastal trail follows the shoreline past rocky outcrops, beaches and dramatic stretches of coast, offering some of the region’s most beautiful seaside walks. Along the way, you can easily combine hiking with a day at the beach or a refreshing dip in the sea.

The Bamble Coastal Path isn’t one single route, but a network of trails connecting several excellent day hikes. Many sections are perfect for summer walks, with plenty of opportunities to stop at a sheltered cove for a swim or enjoy a picnic overlooking the sea.

Accessible walks with beautiful views

You don’t need to tackle steep or demanding terrain to experience some of Telemark’s beautiful landscapes. Several destinations offer accessible trails that combine nature and great views with easier terrain.

Bufjordstigen in Dalen is a good example, with an accessible trail and lovely views across Lake Bandak and the Telemark Canal. Hamaren in Fyresdal offers wide gravel paths, viewpoints and easy access to nature, making it ideal for wheelchair users, families with pushchairs and anyone looking for a gentler walk.

These trails make it easier for more people to get close to Telemark’s landscapes and enjoy the outdoors at their own pace.

Ready to explore Telemark on foot?

From challenging full-day hikes such as Lårdalstigen and Skorve to the iconic Gaustatoppen, family-friendly trails at Lifjell and summer walks along the Bamble coast, hiking in Telemark offers incredible variety, beautiful views and memorable experiences in nature.

Whether you’re looking for mountain peaks, peaceful surroundings, a place to swim or a trail the whole family can enjoy, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience Telemark on foot.

Lace up your hiking boots and discover Telemark at its very best.