Telemark canal
The world’s most beautiful canal. Eight spectacular flights of locks, with 18 lock chambers in total, elevate boats and their passengers by 72 metres (236 feet) en route from Skien to Dalen.
When the Telemark Canal was completed in 1892, it created a continuous waterway all the way from the coast into the very heart of Telemark. The canal connected town and country and opened up Telemark to the world. Today, you can discover the cultural heritage and everyday life of this fairytale waterway, with its locks, narrow rivers and wide open lakes, from the deck of one of the three canal ships or in your own boat.
You can also explore the canal and the surrounding countryside by canoe, by bike or on foot, and visit museums, cultural heritage, charming restaurants, and festivals and events. The eastern leg of the waterway takes you via the picturesque Sauarelva river to Notodden, famous for its Unesco-recognised industrial heritage and its blues festival.
Throughout the summer season, you can discover the Telemark Canal aboard the canal
ships which sail between Skien and Dalen, and Akkerhaugen and Lunde. All three ships
have covered decks, saloons and onboard restaurants, and you can take your bike or
your canoe/kayak with you. For timetables and fares contact us! We can buy tickets and book packages including transport and accommodation.
Along the canal you’ll find plenty of signposted cycle routes for day trips and longer excursions. Perfect both for young families and for cyclists or hikers seeking more of a challenge. Between Ulefoss and Hogga, the cycle path runs right beside the canal, skirting the historic locks. The national cycle route between Dalen and Ulefoss
passes through an area with spectacular natural and cultivated landscapes. We recommend taking the canal ship in one direction or for part of the way. You can rent a bike or bring your own. All the canal ships can carry bikes. For information on cycle or hike routes, maps, accommodation and more, contact us.
What could be more fun than exploring this magical waterway in your own canoe or kayak? Paddling through the locks is a thrilling experience. Just follow the instructions of the helpful lock-keepers and you’ll be perfectly safe. We suggest passing through
the locks in the downstream direction for a calmer passage with no spray. Descending gently from one lock chamber to the next feels fantastic. But if you prefer to go ashore and bypass the locks, trolleys for transporting canoes and kayaks are available at all locations. The canal is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent in various locations along the canal.
Contact us for information on maps, canoe/kayak rentals, campsites and more.
The canal ships make a fabulous setting for weddings, special outings, corporate entertainment or just a pleasant cruise in the company of friends and colleagues. Outside normal operating hours, the ships are available for private charters. Food and beverages can be served in the onboard restaurant, and the catering service will be happy to tailor the menu to your requirements.
For more information about chartering a canal ship, contact us.
Rates 2019
Availability is subject to change. Please contact us for current availability and pricing.
