The Telemark Canal

2015
The Telemark Canal
– waterway to adventure
Welcome to
the Telemark Canal!
Built in the mid-19th century as a transport lifeline, the Telemark Canal has
played a key role in the region’s social and economic development. More recently,
the canal with its historic locks has become a major visitor attraction and part
of Telemark’s cultural heritage.
We encourage everyone to take a trip on the Telemark Canal. Either aboard one of the
venerable canal ships, or piloting your own boat through the locks. If active travel is
more your style, you can make the trip by canoe or kayak. Landlubbers can cycle or hike
along the canal on a network of well-maintained trails. Whether you’re in search of quiet
relaxation or more challenging activities, the countryside and the communities surrounding
the canal have plenty to offer. Here, as in the rest of Telemark, you’ll find an abundance of
culture, events and festivals throughout the tourist season.
The canal infrastructure is open to the public all year round.
The canal ships begin operating for the 2015 season on May 19
and make their last trip on September 19. The locks are open
to private pleasure craft from July 19 until August 13 and at other
times by prior arrangement.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Telemark
Canal.We’ll do our very best to ensure you have a great
time and lots of happy memories!
Steinar Arntzen
Nowhere else have I seen locks carved into hard rock the way they
are on the Telemark Canal.
Odd Børretzen
HISTORY
The eighth wonder
of the world
The laborious job of carving the
Telemark Canal out of the rock began
more than 150 years ago. When it
was completed in 1892, the canal
was hailed in Europe as “the eighth
wonder of the world”. It connects the
Telemark coast with the inland part of
the county via a system of eight locks,
extending for 105 km from Skien to
Dalen. The Telemark Canal system
consists of two routes, Skien–Dalen
and Skien–Notodden, and is open to
scheduled and charter traffic, pleasure
craft, canoes and kayaks. You can also
explore many of the places along the
canal by car, by bike or on foot.
Løveid lock, pictured over a century ago
Photo: Skotfoss Historielag
General Manager, Telemarkskanalen FKF
CONTENTS
Welcome to the Telemark Canal............. 2
Take a trip up or down.............................. 4
Want to play lock-keeper?........................ 5
On board the canal ship............................ 7
Vrangfoss, the jewel in the crown........... 8
2
A taste of Telemark..................................... 9
Private boats on the canal.......................11
Hiking...........................................................13
Canoeing and kayaking.............................15
Cycling.........................................................17
More than just a cruise............................18
Canal fun for kids......................................20
Events...........................................................21
Accommodation........................................23
Information for pleasure craft................32
Canal bus services....................................32
Schedules and fares...................................33
Map...............................................................34
Good to know...........................................35
Photo: Tore Rell
M/S Victoria
The
tallest lock
vedon
Strengen
the Telemark
bru under
Canal
tv-sendingen
is at Eidsfoss.
Minutt for minutt på NRK i 2012
Foto: Kari Anne Nordskog
3
Kjeldal
Hogga
65–72 m ASL
62–65 m ASL
Lunde
Vrangfoss
59–62 m ASL
36–59 m ASL
Eidsfoss
Ulefoss
26–36 m ASL
15.3–26 m ASL
Løveid
Skien
5–15.3 m ASL
Norsjø
East Branch Canal
0–5 m above sea level
Notodden
Take a trip up or down
Treat yourself to a trip on the beautifulTelemark Canal this summer.
Enjoy a taste of cultural history, visit bustling communities, and
experience the canal locks in action – an operation that has stood
the test of time over 150 years. Enjoy the trip from the deck of one
of the old-fashioned canal ships: M/S Victoria, M/S Henrik Ibsen,
or the slightly newer M/S Telemarken.
The lowest locks, at Skien and Løveid,
opened up the waterway from Notodden
to the coast in 1861. In the 1980s these
locks were modernized and the operation
of the gates and valves was automated.
On the upper reaches of the canal there
are six locks: Ulefoss, Eidsfoss, Vrangfoss,
Lunde, Kjeldal and Hogga. Here, the lock
gates and valves are still cranked open by
hand, as they have been since the canal
opened in 1892.
4
Skien – Norway’s only canal city!
The first lock on the Telemark Canal is
located right in the city centre.You won’t
find this in any other Norwegian city.
Enjoy a pleasant stroll beside the lock and
the adjacent salmon ladder. The museum
and café in Brekkeparken offer fantastic
views of both Skien lock and Hjellebrygga,
the quay where the canal ships dock.
Skien is the birthplace of the great
dramatist Henrik Ibsen.Visit his childhood
home at Venstøp, 4 km north of the city
centre.
M/S Henrik Ibsen and M/S Victoria at Skien lock
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen, Bilde for Bilde
The Telemark Canal connects the coast
with the inland part of the county via a
system of eight locks.
Flåvatnet
Kvitseidvatnet
Bandak
Dalen
Skien–Dalen 105 km
Skien–Notodden 60 km
Want to play lock-keeper?
major communities and bodies of water
between Lake Bandak and the Skienselva
river.
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
Transport a cargo of whetstone by barge
from Lastein, float a raft of logs from
Spjotsodd in Kviteseid, or convey a party
of tourists by steamer from Ulefoss to
Bandaksli.
The model is a fun way for children,
youngsters and families to learn about the
geography and history of the Telemark
Canal. It includes Vrangfoss lock with its five
chambers. A replica of Hogga power station
shows how the canal is used to generate
electricity. Listen to the story of Turid
Fiskarbekk, who used to row whetstone
across Flåvatn lake – and much more.
Visitors are welcome to attend the official
opening on July 1, 2015, at noon. The canal
model is open daily from July 1 throughout
the summer. The museum’s other
attractions include a new moose exhibit,
Eidsborg stave church, and a heritage village
with Norway’s oldest storehouse. Café
with indoor and outdoor seating. More
information at www.vtm.no.
Lårdal quay
www.huldragogeg.no
A 105-metre-long model of the entire canal,
containing real water, has been constructed
in the museum’s grounds. It includes most
of the locks, a power station, and model
boats that can traverse the locks all the
way from Dalen to Skien and back again.
Along the way, they pass through all the
Photo: TFK
In June 2015, the West Telemark Museum
unveils a 1:1000-scale, child-friendly model
of the Telemark Canal – complete with
water, boats and locks.The museum is right
next to Eidsborg stave church, 7 km from
Dalen quay on the uppermost reaches of
the canal.
For canal enthusiasts
Skien–Dalen
A day trip for true canal enthusiasts.
Experience the entire length of the canal,
from Skien to Dalen, with its wealth of
cultural heritage and magnificent scenery.
Enjoy fine food and drink in the on-board
restaurant.
Canal ship Skien–Dalen, return by bus
Adult NOK 1,375
Child (4–15) from NOK 275
5
Photo: Tore Rell
Downstream of Lunde lock
THE CANAL SHIPS
6
M/S Henrik Ibsen
M/S Victoria
M/S Telemarken
Where the ships meet
Built 1907 in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Arrived on the Telemark Canal in 1993,
renamed after Skien’s world-famous
playwright. A splendid example of a
traditional canal ship, following thorough
restoration in 2010. Certified to carry
100 passengers. In 2015, M/S Henrik
Ibsen will operate daily trips between
Skien and Dalen from May 20 until
September 6. From September 7 to 19,
the vessel will make round trips between
Dalen and Lunde on Wednesdays,
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Purpose-built for the Telemark
Canal at Akers Mek in 1882 and
in continuous service on the canal
ever since. Knows every lock and
every creek inside out! Certified
to carry 180 passengers. Named
after the then queen of Sweden and
Norway,Victoria is still rightly called
the queen of the canal. In 2015, M/S
Victoria will operate daily trips
between Skien and Dalen from May
19 until September 6.
Built 1951 in Sweden and plied
between the skerries of the
Stockholm archipelago until
migrating to Telemark in 1988.
Nicknamed the white swan of
Norsjø. Certified to carry 137
passengers. In 2015, M/S Telemarken
will operate daily trips between
Akkerhaugen and Lunde from June
13 until August 9.
The locks at Ulefoss,Vrangfoss and
Lunde are the main centres of activity.
The ships frequently pass each other
here, and many passengers board or
disembark. Why not combine your
boat trip with a meal or a drink at one
of the local inns? Or you can simply sit
and watch the world go by in one of
the beautiful parks next to the locks.
On Saturday, June 13, a ceremony will
take place at Lunde lock when the
three canal ships meet for the first
time this season.
On board the canal ship
You too can be king for a day on board one of our beautiful canal ships. Enjoy the beautiful
scenery and the spectacular locks from the deck where the orchestra used to play. A voyage
on a canal ship – short or long, day trip or overnight stay – is something you’ll remember
fondly for the rest of your life. There are also scheduled bus services to take you back to
your starting point. Bon voyage!
For boat trip ideas go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
Photo: Inge Fjelddalen
The venerable canal ships have been operating on the Telemark Canal since the late 19th
century. One day in October 1893, King Oscar and Prince Eugen boarded D/S Victoria at the
quay in Skien. The journey began with a salute to the royal visitors, before the ship set off up
the Telemark Canal. At Vrangfoss, you can still see the royal signatures.
Photo: Tom Riis
Photo: From the book Vannveien inn i Telemark
(Waterway into Telemark), courtesy of Jan Einar Bredal
Hjellebrygga quay, Skien, 1905
Ulefos Manor
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
For early risers
The canal trip from Skien to Lunde
showcases a unique piece of cultural
heritage that feels much the same today as
it did in the 19th century.
The Telemark Canal features lock walls
constructed in fine stone masonry, the
original cast-iron gear for operating the
lock gates, former lock-keepers’ cottages,
guardrooms, beautiful parks and historic
quays.
Package includes:
– Canal ship from Skien to Lunde
– Return journey by canal bus from
Lunde to Skien
Adult NOK 735
Child (4–15) from NOK 155
Hop off and back on
On your way upstream, you can disembark
at Eidsfoss and walk a couple of kilometres
beside the canal to Vrangfoss locks, where
you can watch the ship ascending through
the lock chambers before boarding it again
at the uppermost lock.
Schedules and fares on page 33
7
With five lock chambers and a total
rise of 23 metres, Vrangfoss is the
largest flight of locks on the Telemark
Canal. The locks are chiselled into the
landscape next to the pond where
the waterfall used to be in pre-canal
Vrangfoss, the jewel in the crown
days. The turbulent falls made
log floating difficult, hence the
name Vrangfoss, which means
“troublesome falls”. Before the
canal was built, the river ran
through a gorge for about 2
km here, with falls and narrow
sections.
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen, Bilde for Bilde
The troublesome falls
Photo: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
It takes time to pass through five lock chambers – 45 minutes in each direction, in fact.
But, really, who doesn’t have time to spare at moments like this?
8
Scene from the viewpoint, circa 1905
Photo: www.flickr.com
The former lockmaster’s house is now home to Café Slusemesteren. There are worse
ways to spend your time than enjoying a bite to eat and a refreshing drink on the
veranda. If you need to stretch your legs, take a stroll through the beautiful park, with
trees more than a century old, that surrounds the flight of locks.
Guided tours of Vrangfoss available Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at noon,
June 13 to August 8. To book a group tour, please call Ulefoss Cultural Heritage at
+47 994 11 253.
Photo: Live Skinnes
Photo: Erik Røed
Dalen Hotel
Photo: Max Emanuelson
Mersmak food festival, Skien
Photo: Live Skinnes
Picking grapes at Lerkekåsa
Anne Underberg’s homestyle bakery
A taste of Telemark
Inhale the aroma of freshly baked bread from the
baker’s oven, hear the tinkle of sheep bells from the
high pastures, and admire the fine Telemark cattle
grazing beside the canal at Eidsfoss.
In the old days, the Telemark Canal was the main transport route
for people, livestock and goods travelling between the coast and the
mountains. Meals were served on board the canal ships, and staging
posts along the canal offered board and lodging.Today’s canal visitors,
too, can look forward to some great culinary experiences. On board
the canal ships, and in canalside restaurants and hotels, the chefs pride
themselves on their delicious menus featuring wholesome traditional
fare prepared using local recipes and ingredients. Farm shops sell apple
cider, jam, jelly, spreads and other produce. During the season you can
buy fruit and berries straight from the grower.
A big food festival, Mersmak, takes place in Skien on August 28–29.The
Norwegian Apple Festival at Gvarv on September 26 is also worth
a visit.
Don’t forget to take home some local produce as a gastronomic
souvenir of the Telemark Canal.
9
Photo: Elisabeth Lid
Kviteseid quay
Munken
10
Photo: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
PLEASURE CRAFT
Marinas
Boats on trailers
Tips for your boat trip
Toilets/Showers: Skien, Løveid,
Ulefoss, Vrangfoss, Lunde, Kviteseid
quay, Lårdal quay, Dalen quay,
Akkerhaugen West quay, Norsjø
Ferieland, and Nesøya marina,
Notodden.
Fuel: Ulefoss, Norsjø Ferieland and
Dalen. We recommend filling up in
Langesund, Stathelle or Porsgrunn
(Frednes bridge) en route to the canal.
There are various locations along the
canal where you can launch your boat.
Skien: Bøle boat club, upstream of
Løveid lock and Fjærekilen. Sauherad:
Akkerhaugen and Hjuksebø boat clubs.
Notodden: Notodden quay slipway and
Nesøya marina. Nome: Ulefoss marina,
near Strengen bridge and Omnes Camping.
Kviteseid: Kilen Feriesenter and Kviteseid
quay. Tokke: Lårdal camping and Dalen
quay.
Buy a copy of the boating map for
the canal, available at the Skien,
Ulefoss and Hogga locks and the
Dalen tourist office for NOK 550.
Maximum speed in harbours and
channels: 5 knots.
Watch out for canoeists and
moored boats. Don’t forget your
lifejacket.You too, Dad!
Foto: Simen Berg
Lunde sluse
Private boats on the canal
A gentle idyll is the closest we can come to describing a canal holiday on your own boat.
Allow yourself plenty of time to enjoy the wonderful natural surroundings. Since you may
have to wait a while at some locks, build in some slack so you don’t fret about running late.
To make navigation easier, don’t forget to buy a copy of the boating map for the canal. If this
is your first canal holiday on your own boat, don’t worry. The experienced lock-keepers
will look out for you and make sure you have a safe, problem-free trip through the locks.
For boat trip ideas go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
Photo: Elin Tangen
USING THE LOCKS
Kids on board
A canal holiday is an exciting experience
for children of all ages. It’s important
to teach your kids the basics of boating
safety before you set out: simple rules like
sitting quietly, listening to the captain’s
instructions, and wearing a lifejacket. Older
children can be given specific tasks such as
deploying the fenders.
• Follow the instructions of the lock
operators.
• Place plenty of fenders on both sides
before entering the lock.
• At the Ulefoss and Hogga locks, you
can borrow fenderboards to hang
outside your fenders.
• Keep your speed low as you enter the
lock.
• Shut off the engine as soon as your
boat is positioned in the chamber.
• Boats with a dinghy should be positioned at the rear of the chamber.
• The lock operators will lower a rope
for the bow and another for the stern.
Place these ropes around your vessel’s
bollards.
• Hold the rope taut and gather up the
slack as the water level rises. If you are
being lowered, let out the rope as the
boat descends. Don’t fasten the rope!
• No smoking or naked flames are permitted on board while in the lock.
All occupants of the vessel should
wear lifejackets in the lock.
Lock hours of operation
• June 19–Aug 13, 9am–6pm.
• To allow the scheduled canal ship
to pass, it is advisable to arrive at
Løveid lock before 4pm.
• Out of season, Skien and Løveid
locks are opened every Friday
between 9am and noon. Please call
970 89 449 (Mon–Fri daytime) to
make arrangements no later than
the day before.
Information and prices on pages 32–33
11
Løveid lock
A trip with the lads
One day, back in 1986, five men took a trip on the Telemark Canal. They were well and
truly bitten by the canal bug. After making the trip from Skien to Kviteseid aboard M/S
Victoria for the past 29 years, they are ready for a new adventure this year: a cruise all
the way to Dalen.
The Friends of the Canal is an exclusive club with just 12 members. Øyvind Strand, a
member since the beginning, says that the trip has gradually increased in duration and
scope. It now extends over three days and includes overnight stays. There is literally no
place they haven’t visited along the way.
Silly questions such as “How come you’re not fed up with the canal?” are met with a look
of incredulity. “There’s always something happening along the way – fantastic scenery
and something new to look at every single time. There are so many great places it’s
unbelievable, but in my opinion Flåbygd is the best place of all. It’s worth coming just for
the part of the trip from Hogga out onto Flåvatn. And travelling on the canal ships is such
a pleasure.The crew, the cafeteria and the boat itself all make for a memorable experience.
You’ll have a wonderful time, believe me!” says Øyvind.
For more suggestions go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
12
A short canal trip
You don’t have to travel the length of the
canal every time. Sometimes a shorter trip
may be just the thing. For instance, to give
visiting guests a taste of the canal – and
whet their appetites for a longer trip next
time.
A few suggestions:
-- Morning trip from Akkerhaugen to
Hogga
-- Morning trip from Lunde to Hogga
-- Afternoon trip from Løveid to Skien
-- Afternoon trip from Lårdal to Dalen
Photo: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
Photo: Frida Sviland
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
Hop on and off all week
This year you can hop on and off the canal
ships. You can now buy a combined ticket
for M/S Henrik Ibsen and M/S Victoria
that’s valid for a whole week, which lets
you hop from one ship to the other and
travel anywhere between Skien and Dalen.
You can even take your bike or your canoe/
kayak with you.
You book your first trip when you buy
your ticket. For the rest of the week,
you can either book ahead by calling Visit
Telemark at +47 35 90 00 20, or just take a
chance and turn up in the hope that there’s
room on board.
Enjoy the freedom to roam the entire
Telemark Canal and make the most of the
many attractions along the way.
An adult weekly pass costs NOK 1,495. A
child’s pass costs NOK 745. Prices include
your bicycle or canoe/kayak. Don’t forget
your ID – you’ll need to show it with your
ticket each time you board.
Photo: Tom Riis
Hjellevannet,
Skotfosstien Skien
Hiking along the canal
There are plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs along the canal.
Short hikes in gentle terrain include the Skotfoss trail, the Hjellevannet lake circular
trail in Skien, the Geopark trail at Ulefoss, Skarravegen between Ulefoss and Vrangfoss,
Folkestien at Lunde, Gamleveg (Old Road) at Kviteseid Bygdetun, Bufjordstigen at Dalen,
Kjærlighetsstien (Lovers’ Trail) at Gvarv, and the Heddøla valley and Tinnelva river trails
in Notodden.
Tough, spectacular hikes include Lårdalsstigen, Dalen–Rui–Eidsborg, and Hægefjell mountain
in Vrådal. And the majestic peak of Gaustatoppen is not far away.
RECOMMENDED HIKE
For hiking ideas go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
Lårdalsstigen, Tokke
13
Photo: Jørgen Kasin
Lårdalsstigen – not for the faint-hearted
Combine a boat trip with one of Norway’s toughest mountain hikes: Lårdalsstigen. The
hike starts right beside the Telemark Canal, with fine views over Lake Bandak. Lårdalsstigen,
connecting Eidsborg and Lårdal in the municipality of Tokke, is one of the best-known
hiking trails in West Telemark. It’s a tough hike that calls for good hiking gear and plenty
of provisions to eat and drink. From Lårdal, you return to Dalen by canal ship. Overnight
accommodation at the historic Dalen Hotel.The tourist office at Dalen offers information,
maps and ship reservations.
Price from NOK 1,480 per person per night in a double room, including breakfast and
canal ship Lårdal–Dalen.
14
Telemarkspadler’n
Canoe and kayak rentals
Food for kayakers
Canoe and kayak tips
The Telemarkspadler’n kayak race
takes place over the weekend of
September 19–20. The main race is
on the Saturday, when competitors
can choose from three courses that
vary in length and difficulty. On the
Sunday, participants can paddle their
way along the Bandak section of the
Telemark Canal, passing through the
historic locks. Sign up for this year’s
event at www.telemarkspadlern.no.
Norsjo-ferieland.no, Akkerhaugen
Kanalcamping.no, Lunde
Telemarkadventure.com, Dalen
Straand.no,Vrådal, Kviteseid
Lystang.no, Nautesund
Fill tortillas with chicken, lettuce,
sweetcorn, tomato, cheese and taco
sauce. Roll the tortillas together
and wrap in foil. Round off your
meal with a chocolate banana. Make
a lengthwise cut in the banana on
the inside curve and fill it with small
pieces of chocolate and nuts. Wrap
in foil and heat over camping stove
for about 5 minutes. Enjoy!
A sou’wester is a great idea when
it’s raining! A sponge too. Pack
everything in small, watertight bags.
Wear gloves to avoid blisters.
A paddle leash can stop you getting
stuck without a paddle. Don’t forget
your swimming costume, mosquito
repellent and lifejacket.
Email turistkontoret@boitelemark.
com to request a canoe and kayak
map of the Telemark Canal.
Photo: Marcus Nyberg
CANOEING AND KAYAKING
Canoeing and kayaking
Passing through the locks on the Telemark Canal makes for a canoe or kayak trip with a
difference. In fact, you can start your trip in fresh water and end it in salt water. You can
take kayaks and canoes on board the canal ships if you reserve a space in advance.
En route between Dalen and Skien, you will pass idyllic canalside vignettes, cultural
attractions, churches, open lakes, distinctive industrial heritage sites, and eight locks. From
Skien, you can paddle downriver to Porsgrunn and on through the picturesque skerries
of the Eidangerfjord to the open sea.
The canal is suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. Kayaks are available
to rent in various locations along the canal. If you have your own kayak, you have a wide
choice of starting points offering free parking. You should plan for 4–5 overnight stays if
you’re kayaking from Skien to Dalen or vice versa. There’s a lot to see along the way, so
give yourself plenty of time. Or come back for another trip!
Photo: Telemarkspadler`n
At Kjeldal lock
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen, Bilde for Bilde
Photo: Erling Skoe
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
Locked together
Passing through the locks in a group with
other kayakers is both convenient and fun.
If you’re gasping for a coffee, there’s always
someone with a flask on hand.We know it
looks scary. Those HEAVY lock gates and
you in your flimsy little kayak. And it’s a
long way to the top. But you’ll be fine.We’ll
help you from shore, so don’t be nervous.
Experiencing the locks in operation from
your kayak or canoe is fascinating and
exciting. But, if you prefer, you can carry
or trundle your craft past the locks.
Canoeing package at Lunde
Lunde is the perfect starting point for a
canal trip. With gentle paddle strokes on
calm, still waters, you can get up close and
personal with nature. Combine your canoe
trip with a ride on the canal ship.
Two-day canoeing package with accom­
modation at Lunde Vandrerhjem (youth
hostel), including two nights’ B&B and oneday canoe rental.
NOK 1,105 per person
Important information
You can carry your canoe/kayak past all
the locks, or borrow a cart during opening
hours. Most locks have jetties for landing
and launching.
Below Kjeldal there is an electric fish
barrier. Please follow the safety instructions
on the information board.
During operation of the locks, you must
wear a lifejacket, and some canoeing/
kayaking experience is necessary. Some­
times it is necessary to wait for the canal
ships or traffic in the opposite direction.
Take care when crossing lakes. Even on
inland waterways, there can be high winds.
Don’t set yourself too tight a schedule.
For canoe/kayak package ideas and prices go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
15
Photo: Hamish Moore
Dalen, Tokke
CYCLING
16
Telemarkskanalrittet
Cycling packages
Bike rentals
Cycling trip essentials
The Telemarkskanalrittet cycle
race from Dalen to Lunde takes
place Saturday, May 30. Choose
one of three courses: 100 km
starting in Dalen, 55 km starting
in Kviteseid, or 24 km starting and
finishing in Lunde. The fastest cyclist
will receive winner’s honours,
but everyone is welcome at this
community celebration.
Visit Telemark offers a number
of cycling packages, including:
Kanalcamping.no, Lunde
Syklisten.no, Notodden
Telemarkadventure.com, Dalen
Kviteseid tourist information
Straand.no,Vrådal, Kviteseid
Lystang camping, Nautesund
Adhesive bandages and first-aid
kit, plenty to drink, picnic, fruit,
chocolate, change of clothing, cycle
shorts, waterproof clothing. Also
good to have: mosquito repellent,
sunglasses and bike repair kit.
Email turistkontoret@boitelemark.
com to request a cycle map of the
Telemark Canal.
The Grand Canal Tour
The Fjågesund Trail
The Final Stage
The Short Canal Tour
The Lunde Trail
Discover the canal by bike
… and on training
wheels
Opportunities abound to discover the Telemark Canal on two wheels. Combine a cruise on the
canal ship with a cycling holiday, choosing from a range of itineraries of differing length. Many
tourism businesses display the “Cyclists Welcome” sign, which means they’ll take particularly
good care of you and your bike. For instance, they may let you wash your bike and lock it
away overnight.
It can be fun to bring the kids on a cycling
holiday by the canal. Let the children
themselves and the choice of activities set
the pace. There are plenty of fun things to
do. For instance, watching the big canal
ships being elevated in the locks is way
cool! There are two things you need plenty
of: time and icecream, lots of icecream!
The national cycle route between Dalen and Ulefoss passes through an area with spectacular
natural and cultural heritage. Allow yourself four days and three overnight stays to enjoy it,
and treat yourself to the canal ship in one direction. If you start out from Ulefoss, you can end
your trip in style at the magnificent Dalen Hotel. Check in – and breathe out!
From Lunde, there are many signposted cycle routes passing close to the canal and the locks.
Photo: Hamish Moore
Photov: Hamish Moore
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen, Bilde for Bilde
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
The Lunde Trail
An invigorating bike ride on one of the
most scenic sections, from Lunde to
Hogga (6 km).The boat trip from Hogga to
Ulefoss on one of the old-fashioned canal
ships passes through a series of fascinating
locks and canal sections. Cycle back to
Lunde (14 km) for a well-earned rest at
Lunde Vandrehjem (youth hostel).
NOK 1,255 per person incl. boat trip, bike
transport, accommodation, breakfast and
bedding.
Bakkestranda i Skien
For cycling package ideas and prices go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
17
More than just a cruise…
Combine your boat trip on the Telemark Canal with visits to some of the
many interesting places along the way. Take a short stroll or a long hike,
go canoeing or kayaking, go for a bike ride, check out the local museums,
galleries and events, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Lindheim Gård
Photo: Live Skinnes
Wakeboarding at Norsjø Ferieland
Photo: Olav Stubberud
You won’t manage it all in one visit. So you’ll just have to come back!
KVITESEID
DALEN
Cultural heritage and hiking
in West Telemark
Lårdalstigen: not for the faint-hearted
Bufjordstigen: Dalen Hotel
Kviteseid Bygdetun: Gamleveg (Old Road)
Village centre walking trail in Kviteseid
Rui–Eidsborg hiking trail
Pilgrim trail
Canal Week/Victoria Festival, June 15–20
Dalsmarken fair, June 19–20
Opening of canal model, Eidsborg, July 1
LÅRDAL
Music by the Canal
Te
KILEN
BANDAKSLI
FJÅGESUND
Kviteseid Bygdetun heritage
village Photo: Leif Jamtveit
Øvre Verket (Upper Works)
Ruiplassen I
Photo: Arne Rosland
Bufjordstigen
Photo: Hamish Moore
18
Eidsborg stave church
Geoparken
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen
The orchards of Sauherad
NOTODDEN
Cider tasting
Farm shops
Art exhibits
Telemark Art Gallery and Lysbuen Museum
of Industry
Bok & Blueshuset, a cultural centre housing
the Blueseum
Heddal stave church and heritage village
Notodden Blues Festival, July 30–Aug 2
Pick your own fruit
Cable wakeboarding
Kartfestivalen rock music festival, Aug 14–15
Norwegian Apple Festival, Sep 26
Nyhuus Farm
Photo: Live Skinnes
Industrial heritage at Notodden
Heddal stave church
Notodden
Blues
Festival
Activities at Lunde
elemarkskanalrittet
N
anoeing/kayaking and cycling
C
Meeting place for canal ships
Telemarkskanalrittet cycle race, May 30
Music by the Canal, June 19–20
Canal race on roller skis, June 27
Photo: Harald Olsen
GVARV
AKKERHAUGEN
Bok & Blueshuset I
Photo: Børve og Borchsenius
LUNDE
Canoeing
Jazz in the Park I
Skien lock
Photo: Kristin Berge
Photo: Linda Farstad
Photo: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
ULEFOSS
Skien – canal city
Henrik Ibsen Museum
Jazz in the Park at Brekkeparken
Ibsen and local cuisine
Skien Fritidspark (Leisure Park)
Skien Live, June 13
Mersmak food festival, Aug 29–30
Cultural heritage
at Ulefoss
Ulefos Manor
Romnes Church
Photo: Kåre S. Pedersen
Ulefos Manor
Øvre Verket (Upper Works)
Romnes medieval church
Gea Norvegica Geopark
Holla church ruins
SKIEN
Henrik Ibsen
Photo: Dag Jenssen
19
Photo: Olav Stubberud
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
Wakeboarding at Norsjø Ferieland
Eventyrfabrikken
Himalaya Park at Skien Fritidspark
Photo: Dag Jenssen
Canal fun for kids
The communities along the canal are anything but boring, with a wide variety of activities
for children and young people on offer. Do you want to be the lock-keeper in the new
canal model in Eidsborg? Make a detour to Sommarland in Bø, which boasts Norway’s
wildest waterslides. Head for Nordsjø Ferieland at Akkerhaugen to try one of the best
wakeboarding sites in the world. Or how about exploring the old mine shafts at Åmdals
Verk? Check out the fabulous new library at Bok & Blueshuset in Notodden. And don’t
forget Fritidsparken (the Leisure Park) and Eventyrfabrikken (the Adventure Factory) in
Skien, a pirate cruise aboard M/S Victoria, and the DuVerden science centre in Porsgrunn.
You’ll have a great time on the canal with your kids!
20
DuVerden science centre
Photo: Dag Jenssen
Pirate cruise
aboard
M/S Victoria
New – great prices for kids
Our child fares offer excellent value. Up
to two children aged 4–15 can travel at a
discounted rate in the company of a farepaying adult. Children aged 0–3 still travel
free on the Telemark Canal.
Children aged 4–15 pay a flat fare of
NOK 75 per trip.
EVENTS 2015
Foto: Bjørn-Owe Holmberg
Canalside music festivals
Photo: Bø Sommarland
Viser ved Kanalen (Music
by the Canal), July 19–20,
is a small, intimate festival.
The stage is in a picturesque
location right on the water­
front by Lunde lock. This
year’s acts include Vamp, Lars
Vaular with band, Henning
Kvitnes and Jack Vreeswijk.
Viservedkanalen.no
Foto: Regionalparken
Crazy fun at Bø
Bø Sommarland is paradise for anyone
who loves splashing around in water. The
waterslides are among the tallest in Europe
and the largest in the world. The “Stomach
Churner” superslide, the vertiginous
“Halfpipe”, the “Braveheart” water roller
coaster, “Flow Rider”, the world’s biggest
artificial surf wave, and the “Triple Funnel”,
a waterslide almost 100 metres in length
– these are just some of the attractions
to give you an adrenalin rush. This year
sees the opening of Høyt & Lavt Bø, a new
climbing and adventure park next door to
Sommarland.
Notodden Blues Festival,
July 30–August 2, is Europe’s
biggest blues festival.
Numerous concerts and
venues, including a blues
cruise aboard M/S Telemarken.
The big Saturday concert
on the pier features the
legendary Robert Plant of Led
Zeppelin fame. Bluesfest.no
Kartfestivalen på Gvarv,
August 14–15, is a totally
green rock festival. The day
before sees the Telemark
poetry slam championships.
The festival camp is right
next to the stage beside the
Gvarvelva river.
Kartfestivalen.com
The canal ships will take you to many of the events along the
canal.
May 18–25
May 19–24
May 22
May 22–24
May 25
May 30
Canal Week, Skien
Canal Week, Tokke
Tour of Norway, Skien, Ulefoss, Lunde
Kanalgjedda fishing festival, Lunde lock
Orchard pilgrimage, Gvarv
Telemarkskanalrittet cycle race, Dalen–
Kviteseid–Lunde
May 30
Car show, Bok & Blueshuset, Notodden
May 31
Concert by Operagutta (The Opera Boys),
Ulefos Manor
June 6
Rock Around the Lock, Lunde
June 6
Opening hike, Lårdalsstigen
June 9–Aug 25 Cultural and culinary explorations of Ibsen’s
world, Skien (Tuesdays)
June 13
Skien Live
June 13–Aug 8 Free guided tours of Øvre Verket (Upper
Works), Ulefoss (Tuesdays and Saturdays, 2pm)
June 13–Aug 18 Telemarksgalleriet, Notodden: “In the Name of
the Rose”
June 13
Celebration of the three canal ships, Lunde lock
June 15–20
Canal Week and Victoria Festival, Kviteseid
June 17
Concert by Arve Tellefsen and Knut Buen,
Telemarksgalleriet, Notodden
June 19–20
Music by the Canal, Lunde lock
June 19–20
Dalsmarken fair, Dalen
June 26–28
Wings & Wheels, Lunde
June 27
Canal race on roller skis, Lunde
July 1
Opening of canal model, Eidsborg
July 4–6
Open days at Øvre Verket, Ulefoss
July 30–Aug 2 Notodden Blues Festival
Aug 2
Amcar Norway Cruise, roadshow, Lunde
Aug 8
Duck race, Lunde lock
Aug 14–15
Kartfestivalen rock music festival, Gvarv
Aug 15
Norwegian skateboard/vertramp championships
Aug 25
Ibsen guided bike tour, Skien
Aug 28–29
Mersmak food festival, Skien
Aug 29
Lunde lock triathlon
Aug 30
Snipetorpmarken fair, Skien
Sep 19–20
Telemarkspadler’n kayak race, Notodden–
Akkerhaugen
Sep 26
Norwegian Apple Festival, Gvarv
For activity ideas and event listings go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
21
Foto: Simen Berg
Hogga bobilcamping
22
Telemark Kanalcamping, Lunde
Lock-keeper’s cottages
Motorhomes and camping
Hotels
Stay in former lock-keeper’s
cottages in idyllic locations along
the Telemark Canal. Built in 1892
in the Swiss chalet style, the 150
m2 cottages each sleep 13 people
and are well appointed inside and
out. The cottage at Eidsfoss even
has its own bakehouse. Renters
may use the adjacent jetties.
There are many pleasant camping sites
along the canal:
Skien: Fritidsparken
Nome: Telemark kanalcamping, Hogga
bobilcamping
Kviteseid: Kilen Feriesenter
Tokke: Bandak camping, Buøy camping,
motorhome parking area at Dalen quay
Notodden: Nesøya bobilcamp,
Notodden camping
Sauherad: Norsjø Ferieland, Barnas
camping at Teksten, Lystang camping
Visit Telemark can book
accommodation for you in multiple
locations along the canal. For
instance, at the comfortable Thon
Hotel Høyers in Skien and, at the
far end of the canal, at the fairytale
Dalen Hotel, built in 1894. A stay
here is a truly unique experience.
Photo: Erling Skoe/Telemark Kanalcamping
ACCOMMODATION
RECOMMENDED CANAL PACKAGE
MORGONDAGEN
Dagen i dag
ber med seg
arr frå fortida.
Den uopplevde
morgondagen
er enno ikkje såra.
Dalen Hotel
Slusevokterboligen
på Eidsfoss
The lock-keeper’s cottage
at Vrangfoss
Foto: Søve
Photo:
OleVideregående
Bjørn Ulsnæs skole
TOMORROW
Accommodation along the canal
If you’ve brought your own accommodation in the form of a boat or a tent, you don’t have
to worry about where to sleep. If, on the other hand, you would like to take advantage of
some of the many accommodation options located along the canal, we can offer everything
from the legendary Dalen Hotel to camping in the great outdoors. You can camp in the
open or at a campground with facilities. If you’re camping in the open, you must comply
with the Outdoor Leisure Act, which basically allows you to camp for up to 48 hours in
one location on open land, provided you are at least 150 metres from the closest occupied
dwelling.
For a true taste of canal life in the old days, rent the lock-keeper’s cottage at Eidsfoss or
Vrangfoss, or the log rafters’ bunkhouse at Kviteseid.
Today bears the scars
of the past.
Tomorrow is yet to be
experienced
and yet to be wounded.
Oddmund Haugen
Poetry by the Canal
Poetry by the Canal is a project run by
local enthusiasts and libraries in the six
municipalities along the waterway. In all,
45 verses by local poets are presented
in appropriate locations by the canal. If
you manage to take photos of at least 25
poems, you can claim a reward from the
Telemark Canal.
Canal trip with accommodation
Take your time exploring the canal and
treat yourself to a package tour with
accommodation at one of the comfortable
hotels along the way. Enjoy the atmosphere
of the canal and the surrounding country­
side before rounding off the day with fine
dining at your hotel. The canal bus will
return you to your starting point, where
you have parked your car.
The following hotels offer canal packages
that you can book through Visit Telemark:
• Thon Hotel Høyers, Skien
• Clarion Collection Hotel Bryggeparken,
Skien
• Hotell Dag Bondeheim, Skien
• Norsjø Hotell, Akkerhaugen
• Morgedal Hotell, Morgedal
• Quality Straand Hotel & Resort,Vrådal
• Dalen Hotel, Dalen
• Lunde Vandrerhjem (youth hostel) is a
good alternative if you are looking for
more affordable accommodation.
For more information and reservations go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
23
Advertisement
Cruise the canal on
board M/S Victoria
Sit back and enjoy the fabulous scenery from the orchestra deck of M/S
Victoria, the queen of the canal.
Cruise suggestion for late risers
If you’re on board for the entire trip from Skien to Dalen, you’ll pass through seven sets
of locks, with a total of 17 individual locks. Between the locks, enjoy landscapes rich
in cultural history, steep mountainsides evoking the grandeur of the West Norwegian
fjords, narrow canals, open water and calm lakes.
If you’re the sort that likes to make the most of the light
summer nights and get up a little later the next day, this is
the cruise for you.
M/S Victoria is available to charter outside her scheduled operating season. An evening
cruise on the canal, accompanied by fine food and drink, is an absolute must. M/S
Victoria is certified to carry 180 passengers.
Welcome aboard!
For more information go to www.kanalbaatene.no
After a short bus ride from Skien to Lunde, enjoy the voyage back down
the Telemark Canal, passing through locks and across open water. Enjoy fine
food and drink in the on-board restaurant.
12:00pm Depart Hjellebrygga in Skien by canal bus
1:00pm Arrive Lunde (walk 200 metres to lock)
1:25pm Depart Lunde on canal ship
5:30pm Arrive Hjellebrygga in Skien
Price NOK 735
Free parking at Hjellebrygga in Skien (parking pass required – see signs)
Photo: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
The canal queen operates daily trips between Skien and Dalen from May 19 until
September 6.
Skien – Lunde – Skien
Advertisement
A destination
steeped in
history
Deluxe canal cruise
The fairytale Dalen Hotel, at the head of
the Telemark Canal, has been a favourite
destination for European royalty and
other prominent guests for 120 years.
Travel aboard the king and queen
of the Telemark Canal.
Packages from NOK 4,995 per person
Built in 1894, the hotel is surrounded by dragons and
spires, by mystique and splendour. The architecture
was inspired by Norway’s stave churches and
Viking-age ornamentation. This one-of-a-kind
establishment blends history with modern facilities
and conveniences. M/S Henrik Ibsen, built in 1907,
has been sensitively overhauled to meet today’s
standards of comfort and service. Treat yourself to
a classic cruise all the way up the Telemark Canal to
Dalen. A wonderful experience steeped in history.
Day 1: Depart Lunde on M/S Henrik Ibsen
or M/S Victoria. Lunch on board, including
a glass of wine or a soft drink. Overnight
stay at the fairytale Dalen Hotel, including
aperitif and fireside storytelling. Threecourse dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Day 2: Enjoy a buffet breakfast at the hotel
and put a packed lunch and drink in your
backpack before heading out to the West
Telemark Museum. From the museum, we
will walk to Ruigården. Back at the hotel,
enjoy afternoon tea and homemade cakes
in the garden. Three-course dinner in the
hotel restaurant, followed by coffee at
the fireside to the accompaniment of the
resident concert pianist.
Dalen Hotel is open for the season from April 10 to
October 30. M/S Henrik Ibsen operates daily trips
on the Telemark Canal from May 20 to September
19.
Reservations +47 350 79 000 – post@dalenhotel.no
Photo: Dalen Hotel
www.dalenhotel.no
Dag 3: Depart for Lunde on M/S Victoria or
M/S Henrik Ibsen, with breakfast on board.
Lock cruise from NOK 475 per person
Canal packages from NOK 750 per person
See www.mshenrikibsen.no for more
itineraries
Advertisement
Photo: Skien kommune
Stay in comfort in the heart of Telemark
What to see in Skien
and Grenland
Norsjø Hotell
– 5 minutes’ walk from
the canal ships
We have plenty to be proud of here in Grenland. The beautiful Telemark Canal starts at
Lock 1 in downtown Skien. Enjoy the region’s natural and cultural heritage on a fabulous
journey aboard the canal ships M/S Victoria and M/S Henrik Ibsen.
Enjoy the one and only Telemark Canal,
with its locks that open and close just
as they have for more than a century.
From May to August, the canal ship M/S
Telemarken calls daily at our jetty en route
to and from Lunde.
M/S Telemarken is perfect for group travel,
either as a private charter or in regular
service.
We look forward to
welcoming you!
Tel: +47 35 95 50 00
www.norsjohotell.no
Photo: Inge Fjelddalen
-- Only 2 hours from Oslo
-- Great conference suite
-- Cruise the canal – often with musical
accompaniment
-- Golf packages including access to
Norsjø Golfpark
-- Wakeboarding and waterskiing
packages to Norsjø Ferieland
-- 15 minutes from Bø Sommarland
Canal package
Cause for celebration, or just fancy a
cruise on the Telemark Canal? Bring
your friends and family along for dinner,
bed and breakfast, and a canal cruise
from Akkerhaugen to Ulefoss and Lunde
(optional return by bus not included).
NOK 1,300 per person
For information call +47 35 95 50 00
or go to www.norsjohotell.no
Henrik Ibsen was born and raised in Skien. Telemark Museum welcomes visitors to
the playwright’s childhood home at Venstøp, where an exhibition of texts provides an
introduction to his works. Other exhibits include Ibsen’s christening gown and one of
his famous top hats. The attic contains a large collection of dressing-up clothes to keep
younger visitors amused.
Porsgrund Porselænsfabrik, still fully operational, is Norway’s only china factory and
home to a recently opened museum. Explore the history of the factory with the aid of
modern technology and a collection of 1,000 artifacts. The museum is open Wednesday
to Saturday, 11am to 4pm.
The manufacturing facility and factory outlet are adjacent to the museum.
For more information on Skien and the Grenland region, call VisitGrenland at +47 35 90 55 20
or visit the tourist information centre at Henrik Ibsens gate 2 in Skien.
visitgrenland.no
Advertisement
will drive you to THE TELEMARK CANAL
SKIEN
182
194
Kanalbussen
ULEFOSS
182
Kanalbussen
LUNDE
Kanalbussen
KVITESEID
Kanalbussen
DALEN
Kanalbussen
No matter where you wish to get on or off the canal ships, our express bus services will either take you
all the way to the canal or connect with the canal bus service.
Express bus services
180 Haukeliekspressen
Oslo–Kongsberg–Notodden–Bø–Seljord–Åmot–Haugesund/Odda–Bergen
182 Telemarkekspressen
Tønsberg–
–Larvik–Porsgrunn–Skien–Ulefoss–Bø–Seljord
Bus Ticket
194 Grenlandsekspressen
Oslo–Drammen–Kronlia–Sundbyfoss–Siljan–Skien–Porsgrunn
Plan your journey at www.telemarkbil.no or call +47 35 06 54 00
Canal bus services
Skien–Lunde
Ulefoss–Lunde
Dalen–Seljord–Bø–Lunde–Ulefoss–Skien
Kviteseid–Seljord–Bø–Lunde–Ulefoss–Skien
Ulefoss–Kviteseid
Ulefoss–Dalen
Canal buses operate during the canal season, May 19–Sep 19.
Photo: Kåre Pedersen / Telemarkreiser
Contact Visit Telemark to book canal packages including cruise, canal bus and accommodation
if required. More information: www.visittelemark.no or call +47 35 90 00 20
nor-way.no
Haukeliekspressen
Telemarkekspressen
Grenlandsekspressen
Local bus services in western and central Telemark
Advertisement
Annonse
SOMMER
EVE
Vrådal – summer fun for all the family!
Beautifully situated between forest and mountains, just 15 minutes from the canal. Highquality hotel and cottage accommodation. Located on Lake Nisser with opportunities for
sightseeing cruises on M/S Fram, boat and canoe rentals. Beach with play area and lakefront
café. Excellent hiking country with mountain gondola and great bike trails.
Fine nine-hole golf course at Fossøy in Vrådal village.
Camp within walking distance of Lunde lock
The three canal ships meet here daily. Enjoy lunch and dinner in beautiful
surroundings at Lunde Slusekro.
• Camping sites
• Diverse menu options at Lunde Slusekro
• Waymarked cycle and hiking trails
ER
• Bike, canoe and kayak rentals with suggested
itineraries
• Walking distance to Lunde village
• Marina
post@kanalcamping.no I www.kanalcamping.no I Tel: +47 91575421
Welcome to Vrådal!
SKIEN
Henrik Ibsen Museum:
Visit the playwright’s childhood home.
Hat exhibition and photographic
exhibition.
w w w. v r a a d a l . c o m
A beautiful place to stay
• Available year-round for
Telemark Canal and archipelago
cruises
Welcome to
TELEMARK MUSEUM!
• Catering options range
from buffet to fine dining
• Leies ut som møte- og se
• Bevertning
fra rekeb
• Certified to carry
68
•
Sertifisert
for 6
passengers
• Skjenkebevilgning m
• Fully licensed
Brekkeparken: Beautiful manor
house, history of the Aall family and
the events of 1814, English-style park,
traditional Telemark buildings, café.
May 1–Aug 31, 11am–5pm
ULEFOSS
Ulefos Manor: The magnificent
residence of the Aall family, and
Norway’s most significant Empirestyle building. Historical exhibition
on the events of 1814. Jewellery
exhibition.
May 31–Aug 16, 11am–5pm
(closed Mondays)
M/S Skarsfo
CHARTER YOUR OWN
ADVENTURE
www.telemarkmuseum.no
THIS SUMMER
Røråstangen 8
Telefon: 907 6
E-post: info@sk
www.skarsfos
M/S Skarsfos AS prop. Asbjørn Lia
Røråstangen 82, 3720 Skien
Tel: +47 907 63 686
Email: info@skarsfos.no www.skarsfos.no
Advertisement
Annonse
Play your way into history
Telemark’s main transportation artery
West-Telemark Museum
105 m long model of the Telemark Canal
complete with boats, locks and power station
- for the whole family!
Museum of the Year 2012
VTM Eidsborg and Norsk Skieventyr Morgedal are open all year
round. We also have eight summer-only museums featuring heritage
buildings, art, sculpture, cultural heritage and mining. Our closest
locations to the Telemark Canal are:
VTM Eidsborg
Splendid new museum
building (pictured above)
with exhibits on topics such
as hydroelectric power and
folk art, plus temporary
exhibitions and Statkraft
visitor centre. Open year
round. Restaurant and
conference/function suite.
Stave church, walking trail
to whetstone quarry, and
heritage village with Norway’s oldest storehouse.
Kviteseid Bygdetun
A heritage village where
you can see what a prosperous West Telemark farm
looked like in the early
19th century. The museum
also includes Kviteseid’s old
stone church, built in 1260,
and an exhibition space
including an anniversary
exhibit on the sculptor
Gunnar Utsond. Open
­during the summer season.
Åmdals Verk mines
Walk through mine tunnels
dating back to 1691. In a
separate museum building, the mining process
is brought to life in great
detail in model form. Open
during the summer season.
Tel: +47 35069090, email: post@vtm.no, www.vtm.no
Opens
July 1, 2015
in Eidsborg,
Dalen
You can be skipper
on M/S Victoria,
lock keeper at
Vrangfoss or
log driver!
See the animated film
about the canal model!
Sparebankstiftinga DNB, Statkraft, Kulturdepartementet,
Telemark fylkeskommune,Telemark utviklingsfond,
Tokke kommune og Telemarkskanalen Regionalpark
Advertisement
Welcome to
MERSMAK
FOOD FESTIVAL
Ulefoss Kulturarv
What to see
telemarkskanalen.no
SKIEN, AUGUST 28–29, 2015
geoparken.no
Ulefos Manor
Romnes church Øvre Verket (Upper Works)
Open May 31–Aug 6,
Tue–Sun 11am–5pm
Open June–September.
A genuine medieval church
set amid beautiful scenery at
Romnes.
Telemark Museum
Tel: +47 35 54 45 00
www.telemarkmuseum.no
Tel: +47 35 94 62 62
www.nome.kirken.no
Open July 4–Aug 31, 12–5pm, closed Mondays. Øvre Verket,
a unique collection of workers’ houses, plays host to exhibits,
lectures, concerts and markets. This year’s topic is the Ulefoss
ironworks, and the production of manhole covers in particular.
NEW: Free guided tours of Øvre Verket every Tuesday
and Saturday, 2–3pm, June 13–Aug 8.
Tel: +47 995 57 763 – www.ovreverket.no
Where to stay
in
Mersmak
unity
m
m
o
c
Skien is a
romoting
festival p
and
interest in
on of
appreciati
.
good food
www.mersmakiskien.no
Design: Reklamehuset Wera. Photo: Max Emanuelson
Lille Ulefos
Bed and breakfast in a country estate setting at Lille Ulefos,
with fine views of the Telemark Canal. Modern rooms with
ensuite bath and deluxe toiletries by L’Occitane. Delicious
continental breakfast served in the Annex, in the Orangery,
or at a table in the garden while you watch the boats passing
through the nearby lock.
For reservations call +47 980 84 234
Where to eat
Øvre Verket
Spiseri
Cafe Slusa
Open daily, 10am–11pm,
midsummer to late August.
Diverse program of evening
entertainment. Wednesday
quiz nights. Beer and wine
licence.
Lannavegen 2, Ulefoss
Tel: +47 902 82 998
10am–9pm. Out of season,
open weekends in good
weather.
One of Norway’s most
delightful marinas. Kiosk and
bathing area. Fully licensed,
light meals served.
June and September: Open Fri
5–9pm, Sat 12–9pm,
Sun 12–8pm.
July and August: Open Tue–Sun
12–9pm. Closed Mondays.
– Lunch/à la carte
– Fully licensed
– Parties of all kinds, from
children’s birthdays to weddings
Open Mon, Wed, Thu 2–10pm. – Catering
Fri, Sat 1–10pm, Sun 12–10pm. – Traditional fare
Chinese, Malaysian and
– Fresh, locally sourced
Norwegian cuisine. Pizza
ingredients
menu. Patio service in summer. – Espresso and home-baked cakes
Takeout and catering.
– Enthusiastic staff :-)
Tel: +47 455 12 711
Ulefossgt. 2, Ulefoss
Tel: +47 35 94 48 04
Ulefoss marina Vertshuset
Ulefoss
Open June 12–Aug 16,
Tel: +47 991 64 073
spiserietovreverket@gmail.com
See you on the canal!
Information for pleasure craft
How long does it take in my own boat?
A trip from Skien to Notodden and back
takes 3–4 days. Most people allow at least
a week for the round trip from Skien
to Dalen. Don’t set yourself too tight
a schedule. Arrive at each lock in good
time to be sure of getting through during
opening hours. Expect to have to wait for
scheduled canal ships.
Opening hours at all locks
• June 19–Aug 13, 9am–6pm.
• To allow the scheduled canal ship to
pass, it is advisable to arrive at Løveid
lock before 4pm.
• Out of season, Skien and Løveid locks
are opened every Friday between 9am
and noon. Please call 970 89 449 (Mon–
Fri daytime) to make arrangements no
later than the day before.
Tolls
Tolls vary depending on vessel size: under
8 m, 8–12 m and over 12 m.
• Skien–Norsjø to Notodden round trip
NOK 800, 1,000 or 1,200.
• Skien–Norsjø to Dalen round trip
NOK 2,100, 2,700 or 3,300.
• Canoes and kayaks pay half the regular
minimum toll.
The Skien, Ulefoss and Hogga locks have
payment terminals.
VHF on the Telemark Canal
All locks have a VHF radio connection.
Use Channel 9.
Drinking water source
The entire canal system, and Norsjø lake
in particular, is a source of drinking water
for thousands of local residents. Do not
discharge septic tanks or waste into
the water. Use the canal’s facilities for
emptying your septic tank, or empty the
tank before entering the canal and use
toilets on shore whenever possible.
Toilets and showers
Hjellebrygga in Skien, Løveid, Ulefoss
marina,Vrangfoss, Lunde, Kviteseid quay,
Lårdal quay, Dalen quay, Akkerhaugen
West quay, Norsjø Ferieland, and Nesøya
marina, Notodden.
Septic tank emptying
Hjellebrygga, Ulefoss marina, Kviteseid,
Dalen, Akkerhaugen.
Fuel
Between the coast and the canal:
• Langesund
• Stathelle Marina
• Esso at Frednes bridge, Porsgrunn
Along the canal:
• Ulefoss marina sells diesel and petrol.
• Norsjø Ferieland sells diesel and petrol,
and the pump accepts credit cards.
• Dalen quay sells diesel and petrol.
Boating map, navigable channel, etc.
All visitors are strongly advised to obtain
a copy of the boating map for the canal.
Digital maps are not yet available. The map
can be purchased at the Skien, Ulefoss and
Hogga locks for NOK 550. The navigable
channel is marked in the upstream
direction with white stakes to starboard
and red stakes to port. Maintain a distance
of 3–5 m from indi­vidual stakes, and steer
to the centre where the stakes form a
gateway. The stakes may be dislodged, so
check your navigation against the map. All
navigation must comply with the Rules of
the Road at Sea and is at your own risk.
Maximum speed in harbours and channels:
5 knots. Watch out for canoeists and
moored boats.
Maximum mast height and hull
dimensions
Maximum mast height is the height of the
mast, including antennas etc., measured
from the waterline at normal water
levels. If you wish to unstep the mast
before reaching Skien, please call 35 58
43 63 or 35 58 43 82.
Maximum mast height under fixed
bridges:
• Skien–Dalen 12.8 m at the old bridge
in Ulefoss
• Skien–Notodden 16.0 m at the Elstrøm
bridge in Skien
Maximum hull dimensions in lock
chambers:
• Length 100 ft – 30.5 m
• Beam 21 ft – 6.4 m
• Draught 8 ft – 2.4 m
Bridge opening
Bridge control in Porsgrunn. Two bridges
with clearance of 13 m and 8 m.VHF
Channel 12 or call 35 93 16 08.
Sundkilen swing bridge at Kviteseid has a
clearance of 4 m. To open, signal to bridge
operator 9–11am or 4–6pm daily during
the pleasure craft season.
Take the bus in one direction
Scheduled bus services connect with the canal ships at most ports of call,
allowing passengers to return to their starting point. The following are examples
of popular boat-bus combinations:
• 8:10am boat from Skien to Lunde, return by bus
• 8:10am boat from Skien to Dalen, return by bus
• 12 noon bus from Skien to Lunde, return by boat
• 12:35pm bus from Ulefoss to Lunde, return by boat
For other connection options, see www.vkt.no or call 177. Boat ticket does not
include bus fare. Boat and bus tickets can be purchased in advance from Visit
Telemark.
Parking
Free parking is available to canal ship passengers at all ports of call.
At Hjellebrygga in Skien you need a parking pass, which you can get on the ship
or the canal bus.
For more information about pleasure craft on the canal go to www.telemarkskanalen.no
32
Schedules 2015
At Hjellebrygga in Skien you need a parking pass, which you can get on the ship or the
canal bus (see notice at quay).
Skien – Dalen and Akkerhaugen – Lunde
M/S Henrik Ibsen Days of operation
Depart Skien
Depart Løveid
Depart Akkerhaugen
Depart Norsjø Ferieland
Depart Norsjø Golfpark*
Depart Ulefoss
Depart Eidsfoss
Depart Vrangfoss
Arrive
Lunde
Depart Lunde
Depart Kjeldal
Depart Hogga
Depart Fjågesund*
Depart Kviteseid
Depart Spjotsodd
Depart Bandaksli*
Depart Lårdal*
Arrive
Dalen
Dalen – Skien and Lunde – Akkerhaugen
M/S Victoria M/S Telemarken
May 20–Sep 6
Sep 7–19 May 19–Sep 6 June 13–Aug 9
1a) 3 5 7
08:10
08:40
10:35
11:10
12:05
12:50
13:05 13:05
13:30 13:30
14:00 14:00
15:20 15:20
l
l
16:10
l
l
17:20 17:20
17:50 17:50
3 4 5 6
13:05
13:30
14:00
15:20
l
16:10
l
17:20
17:50
1=Monday 2=Tuesday 3=Wednesday
4=Thursday 5=Friday 6=Saturday 7=Sunday
Check in 30 minutes before departure at Skien,
Ulefoss and Lunde, 15 minutes before departure
at other locks/quays.
Note: At Skien quay, you need a parking
pass. See notice at quay.
a. M/S Henrik Ibsen will not operate Monday,
May 25.
b. M/S Victoria will not operate Monday, May 25.
c. M/S Telemarken will not operate Friday,
Aug 7, and Saturday, Aug 8.
* Stops only by prior request
1b) 08:10
08:40
10:35
11:10
12:05
12:50
246
08:10
08:40
10:35
11:10
12:05
12:50
13:05
13:30
14:00
15:10
16:20
16:10
l
l
17:45
18:20
FARES
2015
Daily c)
09:45
09:55
10:20
11:00
11:30
12:25
13:15
Akkerhaugen
Norsjø Golfpark
Ulefoss
Lunde
Kviteseid/Spjotsodd
Lårdal/Bandaksli
Dalen
M/S Henrik Ibsen Days of operation
Depart Dalen
Depart Lårdal*
Depart Bandaksli*
Depart Spjotsodd
Depart Kviteseid
Depart Fjågesund*
Depart Hogga
Depart Kjeldal
Arrive
Lunde
Depart Lunde
Depart Vrangfoss
Depart Eidsfoss
Depart Ulefoss
Depart Norsjø Golfpark*
Depart Norsjø Ferieland
Depart Akkerhaugen
Depart Løveid
Arrive
Skien
M/S Victoria M/S Telemarken
May 20–Sep 6
Sep 7–19 May 19–Sep 6 June 13–Aug 9
1a) 08:35
l
09:05
10:15
l
11:10
12:25*
12:45*
13:00
3 4 5 6
08:35
l
09:05
10:15
l
11:10
12:25*
12:45*
13:00
2 4 6
08:35
l
09:05
10:15
l
11:10
12:25
12:45
13:10
13:25
14:05
14:50
15:20
16:50
17:30
1b) 13:25
14:05
14:50
15:20
16:50
17:30
357
08:10
l
08:35
l
10:15
11:10
12:25
12:45
13:10
13:25
14:05
14:50
15:20
16:50
17:30
Daily c)
13:45
14:35
15:30
16:00
16:25
16:50
17:00
Skien
-Akkerhaugen
-
100,-
Norsjø Golfpark
275,-
200,-
100,-
Ulefoss 575,- 450,-
450,-
475,-Lunde
775,-
-
-
675,- 475,- Kviteseid /Spjotsodd
975,-
-
-
875,-575,-
325,-
Lårdal/Bandaksli
975,-
-
-
875,-575,-
325,-
180,-
Children 0–3: Free Bicycle/bike trailer: NOK 200 Canoe/kayak: NOK 200
Children 4–15:Flat fare of NOK 75 per trip for up to two children accompanying a fare-paying adult. Any additional
children per adult pay 50% of the adult fare. For reservations, call Visit Telemark at +47 35 90 00 20.
Group discount: 1 free for every 20 paying passengers.
Return ticket: 50% discount, valid for one week on any ship. For reservations, call Visit Telemark at +47 35 90 00 20.
Note: You must show your ticket and ID with matching name when boarding.
Book your trip at www.telemarkskanalen.no
33
To Haugesund/Bergen
E 134
Åmot
NOT
Hedda
N
Flatdal
V
Ø
S
Høydalsmo
38
Morgedal
Eidsborg
E 134
45
TOKKE
Lifjell
1291m
Seljord
Brunkeberg
10 Dalen
9
Skafså
36
Lårdal
Bandaksli
8 Kviteseid
Ban
dak
41
45
Vråliosen
To Stavanger
DALEN
72 m above
sea level
BANDAK
KVITESEIDVATNET
38
ite
se
idv
Osl
6 Kilen
et
Fjågesund
355
LUNDE
59–62 m ASL
Rise 3 m
1 lock chamber
381 km
SKIEN
–
n
e
g
er
71 km
LEN 2
vik 34 km
SKIEN–Lar
Fyresdal
TIANSAND
SKIEN–KRIS
5 Flåbygd
36
KJELDAL
EIDSFOSS
4 Lunde
Flåvatn
HOGGA
U
LUNDE
VRANGFOSS
3 Ule
KJELDAL
62–65 m ASL
Rise 3 m
1 lock chamber
N 134 km
n–DA
Berge
359
Rise 7 m
2 lock chambers
Oslo–SKIE
B
N
atn
Storroan
HOGGA
65–72 m ASL
1193m
225 km
o–DALEN
34
Kv
7
Vrådal
FLÅVATN
11 Gvarv
Spjosodd brygge
KVITESEID
Krossli
SAUHER
Bø
NOME
Grova
VRANGFOSS
36–59 m ASL
Rise 23 m
5 lock chambers
EIDSFOSS
Nissedal
26–36 m ASL
Rise 10 m
2 lock chambers
186 km
41
38
ULEFOSS
15–26 m ASL
Rise 11 m
3 lock chambers
NORSJØ
Tørdal
LØVEID
5–15 m ASL
Rise 10 m
3 lock chambers
SKIEN
0–5 m ASL
Rise 5 m
Bostrak
1 lock chamber
TODDEN
E 134
Til Kongsberg/Oslo
al
Bergen
14 Notodden
Good to know
Locks
et
ann
lsv
dda
He
Marina
Cabins, cottages, apartments and rooms
Tents, camping, motorhomes
Hjuksevelta
Bike rentals
Tourist information
Hotels, B&B and youth hostels
Lystang 13
Distances by road in km
Dalen
Ulefoss
Stavanger OsloBergenKristiansandLarvikSkien
Skien
Sandefjord
Dalen 225271
210 165134
Langesund
Larvik
Notodden111 360
257
107 76
Strømstad
Ulefoss 155351
213
62 31
Kristiansand
Skien 134381
186
SVERIGE 34 -
Railway station
Canoe/kayak rentals
360
Gøteborg
1 Skien
RAD
Hirtshals
To be sure of getting a
ticket for the canal ship,
book your cruise or your
package combining cruise,
bus, accommodation,
cycling, canoeing and
attractions right now.
Call +47 35 90 00 20
telemarkskanalen.no
2 Munken
Akkerhaugen 12
3 Ulefoss
Nes
ULEFOSS
Information and
reservations
Oslo
Notodden
4 Lunde
DANMARK
Bergen
5 Flåbygd
TELEMARK
Notodden
6 Kilen
7
NORWAY
Dalen
Ulefoss
Vrådal
Skien
Stavanger
Norsjø
8 Kvitseid
efoss
36
Munken
2
9
32
SKIEN
Lårdal
Oslo
Langesund
Sandefjord
Larvik
Kristiansand
Strømstad
SWEDEN
10 Dalen
11 Gvarv
Skotfoss
Skien 1
12 Akkerhaugen
LØVEID
Gøteborg
Hirtshals
13 Lystang
SKIEN
14 Notodden
Porsgrunn
E 18
To Kristiansand
To Oslo
Published by: Telemarkskanalen FKF and Telemarkskanalen regionalpark
Publication date: April 2015, 3,000 copies
Concept, design and layout: Reklamehuset Wera
DENMARK
English translation: Tom Ellett for Nilssen tekst
Front and back cover photos: Ole Bjørn Ulsnæs
Errors and omissions excepted.
35
www.telemarkskanalen.no