Architectural Gems of Telemark – From Stave Churches to Sustainable Design

Telemark offers a unique collection of architecture spanning from the Middle Ages to cutting-edge sustainable design. Here, you’ll find some of Norway’s oldest and most impressive wooden buildings, pioneering industrial landmarks, award-winning saunas, and architectural viewpoints set in breathtaking natural surroundings. The experiences are close together yet incredibly diverse — and what they all share is a deep connection to Telemark’s rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.

Here are 12 unique architectural experiences in Telemark you won’t want to miss — which one will be your favorite?

1. Heddal Stave Church, Notodden – A Medieval Masterpiece

Heddal Stave Church is Norway’s largest stave church and one of the most impressive wooden structures from the Middle Ages. Built in the 13th century, it’s a magnificent example of Norwegian ecclesiastical architecture with roots in both Christian and Norse traditions. The triple-tiered roofs, carved dragon heads, and ornate detailing make this a spiritual and architectural highlight.
Fun fact: The church was constructed entirely without nails – only using wooden joints and locking mechanisms.

2. Soria Moria Sauna, Dalen – Sustainable Design in Nature

Along the tranquil Bandak Lake in Dalen, Soria Moria Sauna gleams like a jewel in the landscape. Clad in golden wooden panels and shaped like a crystal, the sauna is inspired by Norwegian folklore and fairy tales. It’s part of the "Tales of the Waterway" project and is as much a piece of art as it is a bathhouse — offering peace, views, and world-class design.

Fun fact: The facade is covered in gold-colored glass tiles made from surplus material from local production — sustainability at its most magical.

3. Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum (Vemork), Rjukan – A UNESCO Site with Historical Weight

The iconic Vemork power plant, opened in 1911, was the world’s largest of its kind at the time. It represents groundbreaking Norwegian engineering and industrial history. Today, it houses the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum and is part of the Rjukan-Notodden UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fun fact: Vemork was the target of one of World War II’s most famous sabotage missions – the heavy water sabotage.

4. Hamaren & The Treetop Walk, Fyresdal – Accessible Architecture Among the Trees

The Treetop Walk in Hamaren Activity Park is a spectacular wooden and steel walkway designed to make nature more accessible to everyone. The path winds through the forest, gradually rising to treetop level where it ends in a panoramic platform overlooking Lake Fyresvatn.

Fun fact: The project has received multiple awards for its universal design and harmonious integration with nature.

5. Telemark Canal, Vrangfoss & Along the Route – An Engineering and Architectural Marvel

With 105 km of navigable water and 18 hand-built locks, the Telemark Canal is a 19th-century masterpiece of engineering. The lock system at Vrangfoss is particularly impressive with its massive stone walls and manually operated gates.
Fun fact: All the canal’s locks were built by hand — and most are still manually operated by lock keepers every summer.

6. Høyt Under Taket, Skien – The World’s First Indoor Climbing Centre in Solid Wood

Høyt Under Taket is a modern climbing centre that merges design with function. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Snøhetta, the centre is filled with light, space, and creativity.
Fun fact: It is the world’s first indoor climbing facility built entirely in solid wood.

7. Stålekleivloftet at Vest-Telemark Museum, Eidsborg – The World’s Oldest Wooden Building

This extraordinary storage loft, dating back to around 1167, is recognized as the oldest non-religious wooden building still standing in the world. Originally used for storing food and equipment, Stålekleivloftet has survived nearly 900 years thanks to expert craftsmanship and meticulous care. Today, it is a central attraction at the Vest-Telemark Museum, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Christian Norwegian architecture.

Fun fact: The building's age and preservation make it a true global treasure for wooden architecture enthusiasts.

8. Nylende Viewpoint, Flatdal, Seljord – A Modern Pause Along the Saga Road

Nylende is a beautifully designed rest stop along the Saga Road, offering panoramic views of the Flatdal valley and surrounding mountains. The minimalist wooden and steel platform invites you to pause, reflect, and take in the stunning cultural landscape.
Fun fact: Its design blends seamlessly with nature and supports storytelling along the historic Saga Route.

9. Ulefos Manor, Ulefoss – Norway’s Finest Empire-Style Mansion

Built in 1807, Ulefos Manor is considered the finest example of empire-style architecture in Norway. With its symmetrical design, classical columns, and refined details, it was originally constructed as a summer residence for Niels Aall — a key figure in Norway’s constitutional history. Today, the manor is open to the public with exhibitions and guided tours in beautifully maintained park surroundings.

Fun fact: The house was designed by Christian Heinrich Grosch, the architect behind several iconic Norwegian buildings including the University of Oslo and Oslo Stock Exchange.

10. Powerhouse Telemark, Porsgrunn – Architecture for the Future

Powerhouse Telemark is one of the world’s most sustainable office buildings, producing more energy than it consumes over its entire lifecycle. Designed by Snøhetta, it features a striking triangular shape, dark timber cladding, and solar panels integrated into its roof and façade. Inside, the building is bright, modern, and energy-efficient — a true symbol of forward-thinking architecture.

Fun fact: The angled solar roof maximizes energy production year-round, even in the dark Nordic winter months.

11. Årestua at Bolkesjø Gaard, Notodden – A Living Piece of the Middle Ages

Dating back to the 1220s, Årestua at Bolkesjø Gaard is one of Norway’s oldest preserved wooden homes. Originally a smokehouse with a central hearth and no chimney, the structure has been carefully restored using traditional techniques. Its interior combines authentic medieval elements with modern comfort, offering a unique overnight stay with panoramic views of the Telemark mountains.
Fun fact: Original soot marks still remain in the rafters — a lasting imprint from centuries of open fires.

12. Dalen Hotel, Dalen – Fairytale Architecture in Dragon Style

Built in 1894, Dalen Hotel is one of Norway’s most iconic wooden hotels, known for its elaborate dragon style — a national romantic architecture inspired by stave churches and Viking aesthetics. The hotel has hosted royalty and European aristocracy and remains a bucket-list destination for architecture and history lovers.

Fun fact: When it opened, Dalen Hotel featured both running water and electricity — a cutting-edge innovation for the time.

Plan Your Architectural Journey Through Telemark

Whether you’re fascinated by medieval stave churches, sustainable architecture, or panoramic viewpoints nestled in nature, Telemark offers unforgettable experiences that blend history, innovation, and breathtaking scenery.

Start your journey today at VisitTelemark.com – and discover the stories carved in wood, stone, and steel across this magical region of Norway.