The town of Askim has just over 14,000 inhabitants and is situated in Østfold County in Eastern Norway. It is a not a large town and is easy to visit in an afternoon. It also offers access to the beautiful surrounding countryside, so you might be tempted to extend your stay a little longer. The area is dotted with burial mounds and archaeological finds which tell a tale of long human habitation.
Today, the town also has a lively cultural life and among its main attractions is Askim Kulturhus, which organises a varied programme of concerts and cultural events. For those requiring a little retail therapy, Askimtorget shopping centre boasts an excellent range of over 50 shops where you can fill your suitcase ready for the journey home.
While visiting Askim, you might also like to go walking in the Åsermarka Nature Reserve. If you have children with you, Østfoldbadet (Østfold Water Park) is definitely worth a visit. The water park offers plenty of fun for all the family with its swimming pools and water slides.
Visitors who are interested in more recent history should take the opportunity to round off their trip with a visit to Langnes. This is the site of the last battle between Sweden and Norway, which took place at Langnes Bastion in 1814.
International visitors usually fly in to Oslo Airport and there are regular airport trains to Oslo, where you can change for Askim. By car, the journey takes just under an hour from Oslo. You can also start your holiday in Askim by taking the bus or train from many parts of Norway, although if you are planning trips into the surrounding area it is probably a good idea to rent a car rather than rely on public transport.
With its excellent opportunities for walking and fishing, Askim is the perfect destination for spending a relaxing holiday in rural Norway.
