Notodden Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the beautiful Telemark region of Norway, Notodden is a charming city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Nestled amidst stunning landscapes, this picturesque city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

One of the main attractions in Notodden is the Heddal Stave Church, an exquisite wooden church dating back to the 13th century. With its intricate carvings and impressive architecture, this church is a testament to Norway's rich history and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of outdoor activities that Notodden has to offer. The city is surrounded by pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic mountains, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and even skiing during the winter months. The nearby Gaustatoppen mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is a popular destination for avid hikers.

For those interested in the industrial heritage of Norway, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Notodden Industrial Heritage Site is a must. This site showcases the city's importance in the development of hydroelectric power in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the old power station, learn about the history of hydroelectric power, and even take a boat tour to see the impressive Telemark Canal, a feat of engineering that connects various lakes and rivers.

Notodden also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the famous Notodden Blues Festival, which attracts renowned artists from around the world. This festival is a celebration of blues music and is a must-visit for music lovers.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Notodden boasts a vibrant city center with a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by sampling traditional Norwegian cuisine, browsing through local handicrafts, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee while admiring the city's charming architecture.

Alternative names: Population: 13 thous. (2020)Area: 379.88 mi²Elevation: 121 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 59°33'33"N, 9°15'30"E

Location

TelemarkNorway

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Notodden Top Attractions

Notodden Attractions - What to See and Explore

Notodden offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Heddal Bygdetun, Heddal stave church, Heddalsvatnet, Telemarksgalleriet / Lysbuen. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Museum
Heddal Bygdetun
Heddal Open Air Museum is an open-air museum located in the village of Heddal at Notodden in Vestfold og Telemark county, Norway. Heddal Open Air Museum is located near the historic Heddal Stave Church.
Church • Romanesque architecture
Heddal stave church
Heddal Stave Church is a stave church located at Heddal in Notodden municipality, Norway. The church is a triple nave stave church and is Norway's largest stave church. It was constructed at the beginning of the 13th century.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Heddalsvatnet
Heddalsvatnet is a lake in the municipalities Notodden and Sauherad in Vestfold og Telemark, Norway. The main influx comes from the rivers Tinnelva and Heddøla. The lake covers an area of 11.9 km² or 13.2 km² according to NVE. The catchment basin covers a total area of 5380,5 km².

Day trips

Notodden – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Notodden, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kongsberg Skisenter (Kongsberg), Whaler's Monument (Sandefjord), Oscarsborg Fortress (Drøbak).

15 milesNE
Winter sport, Park, Ski area
Kongsberg Skisenter, Kongsberg
Nestled in the heart of Norway's scenic landscape, Kongsberg Skisenter emerges as a winter haven for ski enthusiasts. This alpine ski area, situated in the city of Kongsberg, offers a diverse range of slopes catering to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned...
45 milesSE
Memorial
Whaler's Monument, Sandefjord
The Whaler's Monument, known locally as Hvalfangstmonumentet, stands as a proud testament to Sandefjord, Norway's rich maritime and whaling heritage. This striking bronze sculpture, which was unveiled in 1960, is the work of Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen.
48 milesE
Specialty museum, Museum, Military museum
Oscarsborg Fortress, Drøbak
Oscarsborg Fortress stands as a monumental guardian of the narrowest point of the Oslofjord, near the quaint coastal town of Drøbak, Norway. This historic fortress, rich in military heritage, played a pivotal role in Norway's defense during the Second World War.
43 milesE
Golf
Borre Golfbane
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Vestfold County, Norway, Borre Golfbane stands out as a premier golfing destination. This lush golf course is celebrated for its impeccable fairways and challenging layout, offering both seasoned players and beginners an unforgettable...
45 milesSE
Specialty museum, Museum, Maritime museum
Sandefjord Museum, Sandefjord
Sandefjord Museum is a cultural beacon nestled in the coastal city of Sandefjord, Norway, renowned for its rich maritime history and significance in the Norwegian whaling industry. This museum serves as a vital repository for the region's seafaring heritage and offers...