Drive it Yourself: Telemark
Telemark is a fascinating part of Norway and best viewed with a road-trip. Here’s where I recommend going.
The Hidden North
North European travel guide
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
In this Travel Guide...
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.
Road-Trips
Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Dalen.
Telemark Scenic Drive
Follow this scenic drive through the highlights of Telemark.
Egersund to Dalen
Follow this road from the south coast of Norway through the mountains to Dalen.
Self-Guided Walks
We currently do not have any self-guided walks available in Dalen.
Dalen on YouTube
Watch our YouTube videos featuring Dalen
Uniquely Dalen
Here are some things that you must do and try in Dalen.
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.
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.
All Posts About Dalen
Drive it Yourself: Egersund to Dalen
Explore hidden valleys and high peaks when driving between two of the most attractive towns in Southern Norway.
Eidsborg Stave Church & West Telemark Museum
Eidsborg Stave Church is an important pilgrim site and is located in the West Telemark open air museum.