Mountain Adventure Holidays
Cross-country skiing - also known as Nordic skiing, langlauf, or ski de fond - is a wonderfully simple and satisfying way to explore snow-covered landscapes. Unlike alpine skiing, there are no lifts involved; it’s your own rhythm and movement that power you along peaceful trails, through quiet forests, and sometimes into untouched wilderness.
Starting XC-skiing is gentle on the body, and full of those little wins that make learning fun and satisfying. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family in tow, our beginner-friendly trips are designed to ease you in gently. No experience needed, just an open mind, and maybe a taste for hot chocolate.
Our team of qualified instructors takes great pride in helping you learn. As a BASI Approved Nordic Ski School, we offer top-quality tuition in a safe, encouraging environment. Our guides are passionate professionals who take the time to explain the basics, build your confidence, and support you every step of the way. We love watching the transformation our guests experience during the week.
Oh, and one more thing: trying the local cuisine is part of the learning process. (We don't make the rules, we just happily enforce them.)
Here’s a round-up of our best winter holidays for beginners - just pick your favourite, and we'll handle the rest.
Venabu, Rondane National Park
A classic! Discover skiing in Norway, the home of Nordic. Based in a cosy, family-run hotel (with a legendary cake table), you'll learn to ski on gentle trails right outside the door, all with sweeping views of snow-covered mountains.
Trip highlights:
✔ BASI-approved Nordic Ski School
✔ Optional dog sledding, horse sleigh rides, yoga, sauna & massage
✔ All meals included (yes, that means waffles too)
✔ Chance to see the northern lights
Exploring Venabu's trails
Venabu, Norway
Want to explore nature's playground as a Family? This multi-activity week includes skiing lessons, husky sledding, sledging, snowshoeing, and cosy evenings by the fire. Perfect for families looking to try it all.
Trip highlights:
✔ Learn to ski as a family with expert instructors
✔ Husky dog sledding and horse sleigh rides
✔ Celebrate New Year or Easter Norwegian-style
✔ Unlimited time on the sledging hill!
Dog sledging with the kids in Venabu
Cogne, Gran Paradiso National Park
Skiing, cappuccino, and four-course dinners? Yes please. This Italian escape offers beginner-friendly ski lessons in one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe, with plenty of time to relax and refuel.
Trip highlights:
✔ Stay in a family run hotel with spa access
✔ Ski in a peaceful national park far from the crowds
✔ Excellent food, wine, and Italian hospitality
Après-ski the Italian way
Obergoms Valley
Think chocolate-box villages, smooth snowy trails, and gentle train rides to new ski spots every day. A dream for first-timers and low-stress learners who want to enjoy beautiful terrain at a relaxed pace.
Trip highlights:
✔ Ski village-to-village with scenic train links
✔ Hotel with sauna (free in some hotels)
✔ Swiss Alps views and reliable snow
Winter views in Switzerland
Cogne, Gran Paradiso National Park
Already tried classic skiing or just fancy a challenge? Our skate ski weekend is the perfect intro. Think fast, fun movement (like ice skating on snow), good food, and a serious fitness boost.
Trip highlights:
✔ Stay in a central hotel with spa
✔ World Cup ski venue away from the crowds
✔ Ideal for Nordic or Alpine skiers
Practicing technique learned on the trails
So, is cross-country skiing for you?
If you enjoy beautiful winter views, trying something different, and enjoying good food, then cross-country skiing is for you. These holidays are a great way to gently push your comfort zone while having a lot of fun along the way.
Ready to give it a go? Pack your thermal socks and we’ll see you on the snow.
Keep up to date with Tracks and Trails through our newsletter, click here to sign up. For more information about our adventure holidays, either bespoke or Scheduled Departures, speak to one of our expert team by calling +44 1663 434468 or email info@tracks-and-trails.
In winter, we offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while in summer we would encourage you to join us for hiking, and trail running.
