The town of Askim grew up as strategic crossing on Norway’s longest river, the Glomma, located in the south west of the country. Today three dam complexes on the river provide hydro-electric power, meaning Askim is an important centre for energy production in Norway. Visitors who hire a car in Askim will soon find that the four-lane E18 highway passes the outskirts of the town as it heads from Oslo to Sweden. The area around Askim is easy to explore by car. Highlights include the lakes and rivers, with great spots for canoeing, fishing and boating.