Nome: Telemark Canal, Volcanoes and Culture
Accommodation in Nome
Six of the Telemark Canal’s eight lock systems are located in Nome. There is also a bathing spot by Lake Nomevann, traces of past volcanic activity and historic sites that make for a variety of holiday experiences. When choosing a holiday apartment in Nome, you can consider whether you are mainly interested in experiencing the canal, hiking and cycling, or exploring churches and industrial history.
Locks, Canal and Water
The western section of the Telemark Canal, Bandakkanalen, runs from Ulefoss to Dalen. The M/S Telemarken operates the return route between Norsjø, Ulefoss and Lunde. This means that, alongside excursions on land, places and routes along the canal are a central part of a visit. The Vrangfoss lock system is built directly into the rugged mountain landscape and is easily accessible by car, boat and bicycle. If you want to experience the canal in different ways, you can choose between arriving by road, by water or by bicycle.
At the eastern end of Lake Nomevann, which is about 2 km long and 1 km wide, lies Nomestranda, a large bathing area with ample parking. These measurements refer to the lake; they give an indication of its size, not the length of the bathing area. For a stay where water and a designated bathing spot are important, Nomestranda is a distinct attraction in Nome.
Geology and Outdoor Trails
Fensfeltet is a geologically distinctive area in Nome. Remains of volcanic vents and other traces of volcanic activity have been preserved there. The area is part of the Gea Norvegica Geopark and can be explored independently or on a guided tour. This gives you the choice between visiting on your own and joining a tour, while the area’s appeal extends beyond any one individual attraction.
The trails also offer different ways to get around. The main Folkestien trail runs downhill alongside the Telemark Canal, is gravelled and is suitable for prams. For a cycling trip, the Bjønnerunden is a clearly defined option: the circular route is 27 km long and has an elevation difference of 170 m. It also passes the ruins of Holla Church. The Håvetrunden, in turn, offers a detour to Tollefstua, where the famous hermit Malmstrø lived and worked for many years. Each of these trails has its own destinations and route features; they are not simply variations of the same tour.
Churches, Gardens and Industrial History
The medieval church at Romnes is one of Norway’s best-preserved medieval churches and features authentic Baroque furnishings. Those interested in religious architecture and historic interiors will find a different focus here than at the locks or in the geopark. A pilgrimage route leads from Holla to Romnes and can end with a church service, a guided tour or a concert.
In Ulefoss, Øvre Verket is a group of protected workers’ homes associated with the Ulefos Jernværk ironworks. Øvre Verket is also a starting point for walks and cycling trips. Near Tyri, the remains of an old brickworks from the 1860s are visible. For centuries, Tyri was a centre for brickworks, mills and sawmills. These sites bring different chapters of the region’s working and industrial history to life.
Another peaceful activity is a stroll through the garden around the main house at Ulefos Hovedgaard. The garden is particularly lovely during flowering season and in summer. For day-out ideas by bicycle, canoe or kayak, First Camp Lunde – Telemark offers route suggestions, maps and mini-guides; canoes, kayaks and bicycles are also available to rent there.
Choosing between the canal, geology, trails and culture can help you find a suitable base for your stay and your search for a holiday apartment in Nome. For more information about places within the municipality, see the pages on Ulefoss and Lunde.
For the wider travel overview: Telemark.
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