The cycling route along the old Treungenbanen follows a historic railway line between Åmli and Treungen. For the most part, it runs on its own traffic-free track with barely any incline; along the way are cultural heritage sites related to railway operations and timber rafting on the Nidelva. Cycling here brings together traces of local transport and river history.
Cycling routes on different scales
The interconnected network of routes in Nissedal designated for cycling covers 74 kilometres across seven routes. Several sections can be combined into longer rides. These are distinct from the cycling routes on Heimdalsheia, where there are 100 kilometres of routes with boardwalks and sturdy suspension bridges. The area lies between Gautefall and Heimdal. Together, the two offerings show different ways to explore Nissedals routes: as a network of routes that can be combined, or amid the landscapes of Heimdalsheia.
Nisser and the waterside routes
Lake Nisser is 35 kilometres long and 250 metres deep. There are several sandy beaches and smooth rock surfaces along the lake; steep, smooth rock faces rise there to 700–800 metres above sea level. From Langfjell, you can look out over Nisser, a view that changes from day to day depending on whether there is calm or wind. Here, the water and landscape are not just a fixed backdrop: the view across the lake also takes on a different character depending on the wind conditions.
The Arendalsvassdraget has marked paddling routes from Nisser to the coast. Starting points include Nisser, Tjørull and Haugsjåsund Camping. Fishing is another of the activities described: fishing is possible in 1,750 bodies of water in Nissedal, including Nisser and Tjørull. The fish species mentioned include large trout, perch, Arctic char and whitefish.
The Fjoneferja MF Nissen carries passengers and cars from Fjone to Framnes across the Fjonesundet, which is just over 500 metres wide. It connects the east and west sides of Nisser and is part of Fylkesvei 3380, which joins Riksvei 41, the Telemarksvegen. If you plan to take the ferry, check the timetable in advance.
Hikes between summit and circular trail
The ascent of Hægefjell begins at the Fjoneferja on Fylkesvei 41. First, the route follows a gravel road for about 40 minutes, then continues on a well-marked and signposted forest trail. Hægefjell is one of the highest peaks in Nissedal municipality and is also used for climbing and bouldering. About 50 climbing routes cover all levels of difficulty.
Another hike leads to Skuggenatten: the moderately difficult, steep trail starts in Treungen at FV41, takes three hours there and back, and offers views of Nissedal and Treungen. The Folkesti over Torgrimsfjell, by contrast, is a 5.1-kilometre circular trail. It starts at Nissedal Church, passes through old forest and former smallholdings, and crosses Torgrimsfjell; along the way, there are views of Nisser. The two routes therefore differ both in their course and in how they are described: a duration is given for Skuggenatten, while the Folkesti is specified by the length of the loop.
Museum and unique waterscapes
The Z-Museum in Treungen presents more than 80 themed exhibitions. They include rare cars, the development of the telephone, and hats and headwear. The themes thus range from technological development to everyday objects and their design.
In southern Nissedal are the Jettegrytene, with numerous glacial potholes, natural slides, waterfalls and diving platforms. In central Nissedal, the waterside meeting place has a water trampoline, table tennis tables, a hammock and a barbecue. Different water experiences are on offer side by side: the sculpted landscape of the Jettegrytene and the facilities at the central meeting place.
As a broader landscape, Telemark stretches from the Hardanger plateau through green valleys to an archipelago and a coastline.
Discover more destinations: Treungen, Nissedal, Notodden, Kviteseid, Porsgrunn, Tinn, Siljan, Drangedal
For the regional travel overview: Telemark.
