Rjukan Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Located in the Telemark region of Norway, Rjukan is a picturesque town with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled in a narrow valley between towering mountains, Rjukan offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical attractions.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Rjukan is a paradise. The town is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, with towering peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. Hiking and mountain biking trails crisscross the area, offering endless opportunities to explore the wilderness. The Hardangervidda National Park, just a short distance away, is a must-visit for nature lovers, with its vast plateaus, glaciers, and diverse wildlife.

Rjukan is also famous for its winter activities. The town boasts several world-class ski resorts, where visitors can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. The nearby Gaustatoppen Mountain is particularly popular among winter sports enthusiasts, offering thrilling slopes and breathtaking views from its summit.

Aside from its natural beauty, Rjukan is also known for its intriguing history. During World War II, the town played a significant role in the Norwegian resistance against the German occupation. Visitors can explore the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum, which tells the story of Rjukan's industrial heritage and the heroes who sabotaged the Nazi regime's attempts to develop atomic weapons.

Another iconic attraction in Rjukan is the famous sun mirrors. Due to its location in a deep valley, the town is deprived of sunlight during the winter months. To combat this, giant mirrors were installed on the mountainside, reflecting sunlight down into the town square. This innovative solution has turned Rjukan into an international symbol of ingenuity and has become a major tourist attraction in itself.

In addition to its outdoor activities and historical sites, Rjukan has a vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries, showcasing the works of local and international artists. The annual Rjukan Rock Festival draws music lovers from near and far, with its lineup of both renowned and up-and-coming artists.

Alternative names: Population: 3.6 thous. (2019)Area: 1 mi²Elevation: 991 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 59°52'44"N, 8°35'32"E

Location

TelemarkNorway

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Rjukan Top Attractions

Rjukan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Rjukan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum, Gaustatoppen Turisthytte, Rjukan Falls, Rjukan–Notodden Industrial Heritage Site. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • Museum • Science museum
Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum
Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum is an industrial museum located at Rjukan in Tinn, Norway. Located in the Vemork power station, it was established in 1988 to allow the preservation of industrial society created by Norsk Hydro when they established themselves in Rjukan in 1907.
59°51'1"N • 8°39'20"E
Gaustatoppen Turisthytte
Hiking • Alpine hut
Scenic falls accessible by a 3-km. hike
Rjukan Falls
Rjukan Falls is a waterfall of 104 metres in the western part of the Westfjord valley in Tinn, a municipality in the county of Vestfold og Telemark, Norway, west of the industrial town Rjukan.

Day trips

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

In the vicinity of Rjukan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kongsberg Skisenter (Kongsberg), Vikersundbakken, Eidsborg Stave Church.

39 milesE
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...
49 milesE
Sport venue, Sport, Ski area
Vikersundbakken
Vikersundbakken, located in Vikersund, Norway, is the largest ski flying hill in the world and an iconic venue for the sport of ski flying. This colossal structure, designed for the daring and skilled athletes of the ski jumping community, has been the site of numerous...
35 milesSW
Church
Eidsborg Stave Church
Nestled in the serene landscape of Telemark, Norway, the Eidsborg Stave Church is a remarkable testimony to medieval Scandinavian architecture. Dating back to the first half of the 13th century, this wooden church is one of the country's oldest and most well-preserved...
45 milesE
Museum
Blaafarveværket
Nestled in the lush landscape of Modum, Norway, Blaafarveværket stands as a testament to the country's rich industrial heritage. This historical site, which now functions as a specialized museum, was once the epicenter of cobalt mining and production, fueling a...
2.6 miSE
Mountain peak with expansive views
Gaustatoppen
Gaustatoppen, the majestic mountain that stands tall in Telemark, Norway, is a beacon for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rising to an impressive 1,883 meters above sea level, it is often referred to as the most beautiful mountain in Norway, offering panoramic views...