Population 532 / 59.2 degrees north

Dalen, Norway

Located in a valley (hence the name), Dalen is a beautiful small town that is home to two things of interest: the historic Dalen Hotel and the Telemark Canal journey.

Fun Facts About Dalen

Latitude: 59.2 degrees north

Population: 532

Tokke Municipality

Things to See & Do

Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Dalen.

Eidsborg Stave Church

Located in an outdoor museum, Eidsborg Stave Church dates back to the 13th century and is a beautiful example of a stave church.

Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences

Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!

Telemark Canal

In the summer months it’s possible to join a guided boat trip on the Telemark Canal.

Hardangervidda

Dalen is located close to the Hardangervidda Plateau, which is a very popular place for hiking and skiing.

Lårdalstigen

This challenging but worthwhile hike is around 14 kilometres one way (allow about 6 hours) but offers spectacular views over the Telemark canal.

Click here to learn more about the hike.

Road-Trips

Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Dalen.

Scenic Telemark Drive (Fv37 & Fv38)

The traditional region of Telemark is known for its remote villages, large forests, and huge ski culture. In old times, Telemark was a rough and lawless place, but now it has transformed into a popular place for people to come for outdoor activities. Telemark is home to the iconic Telemark Canal, was the birthplace of skiing, saw one of the greatest acts of resistance during the war, and has some of Norway’s tall peaks. This drive on two highways – the Fv37 and Fv38 – will take you past the major highlights of the region.

Self-Guided Walks

We currently do not have any self-guided walks available in Dalen.

Dalen on YouTube

Watch our YouTube videos featuring Dalen

Egersund to Dalen

Join us for the drive from Egersund to Dalen.

Telemark Scenic Drive

Here’s our drive through the traditional region of Telemark.

Uniquely Dalen

Here are some things that you must do and try in Dalen.

Soria Moria Sauna

Soria Moria is a work of art sauna located at Lake Bandak.

It is possible to rent it online.

History of Dalen

Dalen Today

Dalen is located on the western part of the Lake Bandak, and the River Tokke has its outlet here. Most of the locals work at the hydropower plant or in the timber industry, though the hotel is a major employer here too.

Travel Information

Getting Here

Fly: No airport.

Drive: Dalen is located close to the E134, the main highway between Oslo and the south-west coast of Norway.

Train: No train access.

Ferry: No ferry access, unless. you count the scenic Telemark Canal journey.

Getting Around

Dalen is a walkable village.

Shops

Places to Eat

Cafes & Bakeries

Quick Bites

Reasonable Restaurants

Lastein Bryggje Kafe is located by the river and has nice meals. It’s also the town pub on weekends.

High End & Unique Eats

There is a high-end restaurant at Dalen Hotel.

Places to Stay

All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.

Camping

Buoy Camping is located by the water and has activities for children as well as cute little cabins for rent. There’s also a restaurant here and bike rental.

Lodges & B&Bs

Dalen Bed and Breakfast is a small family-run business with an excellent breakfast.

Click here to view rates & book

Chains & Mid-Range

High End & Unique Properties

Dalen Hotel is one of Norway’s most historic properties. The hotel is designed in the dragestil architecture.