Stage 2: Askim to (Ørje)/Töcksfors (Main route) 57 km
From Askim to Ørje /Töcksfors you can choose between two cycling routes: the main route that runs along the E18, and a quieter northern route through rural surroundings. Whichever one you choose, you'll experience beautiful eastern landscapes with lakes, forests and lush fields.
**Start in Askim - Small town with big experiences
Askim is a pleasant town with around 15,000 inhabitants and a good selection of shops, restaurants and activities. Here you will find Østfoldbadet, Sprett Activity Park with bowling, trampoline park, etc., Askim fruit and berry press and exciting attractions such as Romsåsen mines and Langnes skanse. Just outside the center, lush agricultural areas and nice bike paths await.
Both routes start together out of Askim, before separating at a crossroads at Slitu. Here the main route takes you east along the E18 to Ørje and Töcksfors via Morenen shopping center, Slitu and Mysen, while the northern route goes via Trøgstad, Havnås, north of the Halden Canal which you follow until you reach Ørje.
**Slitu and Monaryggen - Sand landscape and trade
At Slitu you will find Morenen shopping center, McDonald's, Biltema and Scandic Hotel. Here you can also experience Monaryggen - Northern Europe's largest sand moraine, a 3-4 km long and 208 meter high natural formation.
**Mysen - Historic and lively city center
Mysen has retained its character as a charming small town. Here you pass Momarken racecourse and we recommend a trip to Høytorp Fort, which offers great views and nice hiking areas. Follow the signs that take you through the center, and do not cycle Smedgata, but follow the signs to a detour through the center to experience the atmosphere.
**Towards Ørje - Through rural surroundings
From Mysen you cycle through farmland and pass Bamsrudlåven - famous for its award-winning ice cream - feel free to stop by the farm shop. Then follow cycle paths and gravel roads via Hærland Church and Lundebyvannet (popular swimming spot) to Ørje. There is a small detour to the rest area Trollbergtjern - Signposted to E18, with toilet and benches before you cycle on towards the Halden Canal.
**Ørje - Locks, steamboats and summer life
The summer town of Ørje offers a bustling life with locks, boating and local food. Visit Haldenvassdragets Kanalmuseum, eat at Båtcaféen or Matfatet, and join a trip on the steamers "Turisten", "Hans" or "Engebret Soot". You can also stay overnight at Bloom Inn or at the idyllic Mosebyødegård. Try a pedal bike ride on the water! There are also accommodation options at Vestre Kinn Gård, which is located on the east side of the Halden Canal before you get to Ørje.
**Continue towards Sweden
After Ørje you cycle over the beautiful bridge "Porten til Norge" and further up towards the border. Here you follow the old E18 past the customs station. After crossing the border, the road goes slightly downhill to Töcksfors, where you will find accommodation, restaurants and shopping opportunities.
**Total stage length: approx. 70 km
The surface alternates between asphalt and gravel, and the terrain is mainly easy cycling with some hills. Both the main route and the northern route give you plenty of nature experiences and cultural monuments along the way.
