Drive it Yourself: Scenic Telemark Drive on the Fv37 & Fv38
Telemark is a fascinating part of Norway and best viewed with a road-trip. Here’s where I recommend going.
Seljord is where Norway’s Loch Ness monster is – the mystical sea snake lives in the Seljord lake. Seljord was also the inspiration for some of Norway’s best known folk legends, including Asbjørnsen and Moe’s The Three Billy Goats Gruff.
Latitude: 59.3 degrees north
Population: 2,800
Seljord Municipality
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Seljord
Seljord Church is a Romanesque church from the 12th century that was built in honour of the Norwegian Saint Olav.
Seljord is home to Norway’s own Loch Ness monster. Selma has been mentioned in written sources from the 18th century and various expeditions have been made to find her.
This museum is dedicated to the work of renowned Norwegian artist Eva Bull Holte. Visitors can explore exhibitions featuring her paintings alongside temporary exhibitions from other artists. The museum provides insight into the region’s strong artistic traditions and cultural heritage. Its location also offers beautiful views across the surrounding landscape.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
Skorve is one of the most prominent mountains in Seljord and a favourite destination for hikers. The mountain features two summits and offers spectacular views across Telemark’s valleys, lakes and forests. Trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both experienced hikers and ambitious day-trippers. The mountain also has a fascinating wartime history linked to aircraft crashes during World War II.
Bjørgefjell offers accessible hiking routes through traditional cultural landscapes overlooking Seljordsvatnet. Several viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation. The area is especially beautiful during autumn when the forests display vibrant colours. It is a rewarding option for visitors seeking shorter hikes with impressive scenery.
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Seljord
The E134 follows one of the historic routes between east and west Norway. It provides a nice alternative to taking the E16 (the main highway) between Bergen and Oslo. On this drive you pass a number of historic churches, most notably Heddal Stave Church, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage region of Notodden-Rjukan. As you approach the mountains, you can see some of the original roads that the earliest travellers used – and even drive on them in the summer! This drive ends at Haugesund, a known Viking settlement located halfway between Bergen and Stavanger.
No self-guided walks are currently available for Seljord.
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Seljord
Seljord has been an important settlement in Telemark for centuries, with evidence of farming and habitation dating back to medieval times. The municipality developed around agriculture, trade and its strategic position between eastern and western Norway. Historic churches, farms and cultural landscapes still reflect this long history.
The area is deeply connected to Norwegian folklore and storytelling traditions. Seljord became famous through legends about Selma, the mysterious lake serpent believed to inhabit Seljordsvatnet. Reports of sightings date back to at least the 18th century, and the creature remains one of Norway’s most enduring folk legends.
Seljord also became known for Dyrsku’n, which began in 1866 as a livestock market and evolved into one of Norway’s largest agricultural fairs. The event helped establish Seljord as an important cultural and commercial centre in Telemark.
Modern Seljord remains a small but vibrant community where agriculture, tourism and local culture play important roles. The village serves as a regional centre for surrounding rural communities and provides services, education and cultural activities throughout the year. Despite its modest size, it enjoys a strong identity rooted in Telemark traditions.
Tourism has become increasingly important, with visitors drawn by hiking opportunities, folklore, cultural events and the surrounding landscapes. Attractions linked to Selma the lake serpent continue to attract curious travellers, while Dyrsku’n brings large crowds each year.
Life in Seljord moves at a relaxed pace compared with Norway’s larger cities. Residents enjoy easy access to nature, outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community, making it an appealing destination for travellers seeking an authentic rural Norwegian experience.
Fly: The nearest major airports are Sandefjord Airport Torp and Oslo Airport. From either airport, visitors can continue by car or bus.
Drive: Seljord is located along the E134, one of Norway’s major east-west highways. The drive through Telemark passes mountains, lakes, forests and traditional villages.
Train: There is no railway station in Seljord. The nearest train stations are located in larger towns such as Bø and Kongsberg, with onward bus connections available.
Ferry: No ferry access.
The village centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. A car is highly recommended for reaching hiking trails, viewpoints and nearby valleys such as Flatdal and Åmotsdal. Local buses connect some surrounding communities, but services are limited compared with larger towns. Cycling is also a popular way to explore the area during summer.
Cafes & Bakeries
Nutheim Café – Located within the historic Nutheim Gjestgiveri, this café offers homemade cakes, coffee and light meals with panoramic views across Flatdal. The artistic atmosphere and traditional hospitality make it one of the most memorable places to stop for a break.
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
Nutheim Gjestgiveri Restaurant – One of the region’s most respected dining venues, serving seasonal dishes inspired by Telemark’s food traditions. The restaurant focuses on local ingredients and offers a memorable setting surrounded by art and mountain scenery.
High End & Unique Eats
Camping
Selfjord Camping – A popular budget option offering cabins, camping pitches and lakeside facilities near Seljordsvatnet. It is ideal for families, campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cabins & B&Bs
Nutheim Gjestgiveri – A historic family-run guesthouse that has welcomed artists and travellers for generations. The property combines traditional charm, local culture and spectacular valley views.
Chains & Mid-Range
Seljord Hotel is the main hotel in town. The hotel is located in a Swiss chalet-style building from the mid-19th century.
High End & Unique Properties
Telemark is a fascinating part of Norway and best viewed with a road-trip. Here’s where I recommend going.