Oslo – Stavanger: The Canal, Mountain & Fjord Route
Intermediate Asphalt Gravel
The route on your phone
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Today’s route takes you from Kongsberg through the peaceful Jondalen valley towards Notodden, where forests, lakes and rural landscapes gradually give way to an impressive industrial heritage.
Leaving Kongsberg, you cross the river and follow a dedicated walking and cycling path out of town. After a couple of kilometres on a road with relatively heavy traffic, the route turns into Jondalen, where the surroundings become quieter. The road winds through forests, past lakes and pleasant places to stop for a break.
At Bolkesjø, the route turns south and follows a country road towards Notodden. Approaching the town, you begin to discover its fascinating industrial history. At Svelgfoss, one of Europe’s largest hydropower plants was built in 1907 to supply electricity to Norsk Hydro’s pioneering fertiliser production. Nearby, the remarkable four-kilometre timber flume was once used to transport logs past the waterfalls.
The final stretch crosses the Tinnelva River and follows a pleasant path past historic industrial buildings, the Telemark Art Museum and the World Heritage Centre towards the town centre. Notodden is part of the UNESCO-listed Rjukan–Notodden Industrial Heritage Site and is also famous for its annual blues festival. Here, you will find hotels, shops, restaurants and a lovely waterfront by Lake Heddalsvatnet.
The app is a practical way to use Norway by Bike on your phone, including routes, favorites and selected membership features.
Get a taste of the route in a short, playful cycling game. Follow the bends, take on the hills and discover places along the way.
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