Three chambers and a lift height of 10.7 metres define the locks at Ulefoss. They are still opened and closed by hand, and their lock chambers are made of hewn natural stone. The facility is the first lock system on the Bandak-Norsjø Canal. These technical and architectural features give the canal at Ulefoss a tangible historical connection.
Canal History and Industrial Heritage
Across from the locks, the Iron and Canal Exhibition tells the story of the Telemark Canal through pictures, models and historical objects. Another highlight is Øvre Verket: the listed settlement consists of workers’ homes associated with Ulefos Jernværk. Today, the buildings house museums, exhibitions, shops and workshops.
In summer, you can explore the gift shop, exhibitions, galleries and antiquarian bookshop at Øvre Verket. Cultural activities are also held throughout the year, including concerts and lectures. Further events are announced on the Facebook page. If you are planning a visit for a specific date, check the latest announcements there.
Holla Church and Traces of the Fen Volcano
The ruins of Holla Church, also known as Holla gamle kirke, date back to a stone church built around 1100 on Hollahaugen near Ulefoss. The site is part of the Gea Norvegica Geopark. From Holla Hill, you can look out over the area where the Fen volcano once stood. The volcano has eroded, but traces of its former vent are still visible. The Fensfeltet Geology Exhibition displays rare minerals and rocks from the Fensfelt near Ulefoss, offering another perspective on the area’s geology.
You can also plan your journey to the church ruins: take the bus to Ulefoss sentrum, then walk for about 15–20 minutes. Check bus connections for your travel date before setting off.
Cycling Route and Boat Connections
The Norsjø Panorama cycling route includes a detour to the locks at Ulefoss. It combines industrial history, medieval culture, activities and scenic rest stops by the water. This makes it possible to experience the locks as part of a cycling route that takes in a range of cultural and natural attractions.
Nearby is Ulefos Hovedgaard, an exceptional Empire-style building in Norway. It was built as a summer residence for the Aall family and completed in 1807. Ulefos Hovedgaard can be reached by boat via the Telemark Canal; this option depends on the canal’s seasonal operations. The M/S Telemarken operates return journeys on the Norsjø–Ulefoss–Lunde route. If you are planning a boat trip, check the timetable and operating days in advance.
Ulefoss in the wider destination of Nome
Ulefoss is part of the wider destination of Nome. Six of the Telemark Canal’s eight lock systems are located in Nome. The Vrangfoss lock system is also there, built directly into the rugged mountain landscape and easily reached by car, boat and bicycle. This regional setting complements Ulefoss’s distinctive canal and cultural attractions with another lock system in the destination of Nome.
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