Because of its diversity the county of Telemark has a whole network of fascinating cycling routes to tempt the cyclist. One of the most popular and characteristic routes runs along one of Norway’s most fascinating tourist attractions, the Telemark Canal. It starts at the beautiful archipelago and takes you up into the fantastic Norwegian mountain wonderland. There are 18 steps in all, through 8 locks lifting the boats up to 72 metre above sea level and more than 100 km into the heart of Telemark. The canal route combines cycling with tranquil boat-trips. The route follows the canal more or less the whole way and offers a multitude of scenic and cultural variations. The route is hilly and, in places, steep, well signposted and with little or no traffic.
- Start: Ulefoss
- Finish: Dalen
- Distance: 115 km
- Ascent: ca 300 m
- The route: There is very little or no traffic at all on the roads and lanes that comprise the Telemark route, although some stretches are hilly and others even steep.
- Family route: There are long, tough hills to climb but also flat stretches, the youngest children will probably need a helping hand some of the way. There are easier routes to choose from along the canal.
- Signposting: Signposted with special signposts except between Skien and Ulefoss, where there are no signposts.
- Cycle rental: Skien, Lunde, Vrådal and Dalen.
- Organised tours: Telemarkreiser AL, Postboks 3133, 3707 Skien, T: +47 35 90 00 20, F: +47 35 90 00 21, info@telemarkreiser.no
- Information: Telemarkreiser AL, T: +47 35 90 00 20, F: +47 35 90 00 21, info@telemarkreiser.no, www.visittelemark.com
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