Are you dreaming of a winter holiday filled with action, relaxation, and cozy moments? Telemark is where beautiful winter wonderland meets exciting activities and unique experiences. Whether you're planning a family trip, a weekend with friends, or a romantic getaway, you’ll find everything here: Skiing, thrilling winter activities, and accommodations with a “wow” factor. Start planning now and experience the magic of winter in Telemark!
1. Hit the slopes: Skiing, snowboarding, and off-piste adventures
Telemark is one of Norway’s largest ski regions, offering fantastic opportunities for skiing enthusiasts. Feel the joy of alpine skiing at one of the region’s six ski resorts: Rauland, Haukelifjell, Vrådal, Lifjell, Gausta, and Gautefall.
Each ski center has its own charm and a variety of offerings, including well-groomed slopes, delicious food, rental options, and facilities for both beginners and experienced skiers. Make it easy to explore multiple ski centers in one season with Telemark Superski, which gives you access to five resorts with just one lift pass.
2. Explore the magic mountain Gaustatoppen
If you’re craving adrenaline, Telemark has plenty of off-piste, randonnée, and powder skiing opportunities. Majestic Mount Gaustatoppen (1,883 meters above sea level) towers over Rjukan, offering breathtaking views of 1/6 of Norway on a clear day.
Take the historic and unique Gaustabanen to the top in just 15 minutes if you’d prefer not to hike. For skilled skiers, the mountain offers thrilling off-piste descents—just remember to follow safety guidelines and check the weather forecast. Guided tours are also available for those who want a safe and memorable adventure.
Not a skier? No problem! Relax and take in the stunning views with a coffee and a waffle at Gaustatoppen Turisthytte before taking Gaustabanen back down. Whether you ski or not, both Gaustatoppen and Gaustabanen deserve a spot on your bucket list!
3. Enjoy family fun with sledding and ice skating
Are you ready for family-friendly winter fun? Sledding is a delightful activity for both kids and adults, with excellent sledding opportunities throughout the region. Many ski resorts offer designated sledding areas in their family zones. Combine this activity with an alpine skiing holiday and cozy family meals at the ski centers.
Prefer testing your skills on the ice? Head to the Skating Rink at Skien Fritidspark for hours of fun on the ice!
Find your ski resort in Telemark
4. Try the trend? Warm up with Sauna and feel the thrill with ice bath
Telemark offers unique sauna experiences, such as the Floating Sauna at Gausta by Kvitåvatn, with stunning views of Mount Gaustatoppen, or the iconic Soria Moria Sauna by the Telemark Canal and Dalen Hotel. Explore more amazing saunas in the region here and make sure to add one to your travel itinerary.
Ice bathing is a trendy activity that can also have health benefits if done following professional recommendations. Combine a sauna session with an ice bath to feel the adrenaline rush and enjoy ultimate relaxation—a perfect combination! Will you dare to try?
5. Experience magical dog sledding in stunning winter landscapes
Dog sledding in Telemark is an extraordinary adventure. At Telemark Husky Tour in Rauland, you can choose from a variety of tour options and feel the speed, freedom, and closeness to nature as the dogs guide you through the snow.
This is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with fantastic memories. Who will you bring along for this unique winter adventure?
6. Walk with alpacas: A Unique Winter Activity
Try something different by joining an alpaca walk at Svenseid Alpakka. These friendly animals make for a fun and relaxing winter outing, perfect for all ages.
7. Test adrenaline-packed Snowmobiling and Snow Kiting
Enjoy the speed and thrill of a snowmobile safari at Rauland Skisenter or try snow kiting at Haukeli for an unforgettable adventure gliding over snowy landscapes.