Soak in that scenery - Cross-country skiing is easy to learn as well as a great way to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. It's a gentler way to take in the fresh pine scents, the sparkle of frozen lakes and the sheer tranquillity and beauty of winter in the mountains.
Best cross-country skiing in Europe
Seefeld, Austria
Seefeld is Austria's leading resort and one of the largest cross-country areas in Europe, with 279km of trails. From nursery areas to Olympic tracks - Seefeld's trails offer something for everyone. With many trails being snow sure due to the use of snow cannons and free use of the trails with the Seefeld guest card, it really is a cross-country paradise.
- The trails link 5 different villages: Seefeld, Leutasch, Mosern, Reith and Scharnitz
- 154km of classic trails
- Grades: easy, medium, difficult
- Height difference: 1180 - 1550 km
- Specialised cross country ski school
- A 3km trail is floodlit Monday to Friday
- Seefeld has twice hosted Winter Olympics
Mayrhofen, Austria
Not the largest of of cross-country trail offerings, but certainly one of the most well maintained. Mayrhofen resort has 40km of perfectly groomed trails to explore. Known to have good snow conditions throughout the season, you will usually find a minimum density of 30cm of snow.
- Longest trail is 25km long from Mayrhofen to Zell am Ziller
- There are a total of 16 trails in the vicinity of Mayrhofen
- For more experienced cross-country skiers high-altitude trail Schwendberg is a little tougher but the panoramic views are reward enough
- One of the longest trails is nearly 9km, near Tux (the rear of Zillertal)
- There is a 1.5km floodlit trail for nigh-time cross-country
- Grades: easy, medium, difficult
Soldeu, Andorra
One of the smaller cross-country ski areas, but therefore one of the quieter cross-country ski areas is Soldeu - making it perfect for beginners or skiers going at their own, leisurely pace.
- The longest trail in Soldeu is an extensive 44m loop and will take even a proficient cross-country skier about 5 hours
- There are however plenty of shorter trails, even under a mile that are very easy to manage
- The trails near Soldeu sit at a high-altitude - on average at 2,210m
- Spend a day to visit Naturland, this adventure park has 15km of dedicated cross-country only ski trails
- Grades: easy, medium, difficult
St Moritz, Switzerland
With a vast expanse of cross-country ski trails, St Moritz should b top of the list for your next cross-country skiing holiday. Offering 230km of ski trails that meander throughout the area.
- Try the impressive and full day trail from Maloja to S-chanf - a full 42km
- A range of views are on offer here, from tree-laden forests, frozen lakes to valley views
- St Moritz is part of the largest cross-country ski network in Switzerland
- The trails range from easy, moderate to difficult - meaning there is a trail for everyone
- The trails are slightly longer on average, with the shortest being 2km
Best cross-country skiing resorts
Nearly every country offers cross-country skiing in some capacity, but the below resorts are known for their extensive cross-country trails.
Country |
Resort |
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Austria | |
Switzerland |
Learn to Cross-country ski:
Our exciting 'Learn to Cross-country ski' beginner packages are available in:
Packages include: tuition and ski & boot hire, and are a great way to try out this popular sport. Contact our Reservations Team to learn more.
Cross-country skiing in Lapland:
We also offer skiing holidays to Lapland and it is worth considering here if you are an avid cross-country skier or keen to learn. Lapland has huge dedicated areas to this winter sport.
Sitting above the arctic circle, cross-country skiing in Lapland is a magical experience, with nature at it's finest.
- Levi - Simply the best for all ability levels with refreshment huts and unlimited trails. Levi offers specific trails for cross-country skiing, depending on your level so you can ski to your ability whilst enjoying your surroundings.
- Saariselkä - A cross-country enthusiast's paradise with mile after mile of well-marked trails through scenic Arctic wilderness. Saariselka is a very special cross-country skiing destination, with 200km of trails, 34km of which are illuminated.
- Ylläs - Excellent for all ability levels with refreshment huts and trails in wonderful scenery. Yllas offers 330km of well maintained trails, that are easy to access for true cross-skier beginners.
How to book your holiday
Travel, accommodation and transfers? We’ve got you covered. Book your holiday online or give us a call.