Glide lonely through the snow and enjoy the silence and beauty of wintry nature? This is exactly what distinguishes cross-country skiing. In contrast to alpine skiing, you don’t ski down a slope, but instead move along straight stretches. Nordic winter sports require endurance and are usually learned quickly. If you want to try it: These European regions are popular with cross-country skiers.
Cross-country skiing is very popular in Sweden, which is why there are trails all over the country. The Jämtland-Härjedalen region in the north of the country has a unique landscape to offer. Åre is one of the largest alpine ski areas and also has some cross-country routes. Many routes are illuminated from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Everything from easy to difficult is included. In Funäsfjällen there are more than 300 kilometers of groomed trails just waiting to be tried. The area is mountainous, which is why professionals also get their money’s worth.
Similar to Sweden, the Norwegians also like to explore the snowy landscape on cross-country skis. The sport can be practiced almost anywhere in the country, with eleven areas in Lillehammer and the Gudbrandsdalen valley alone. These include Venabygdsfjellet, Gålå and Rondablikk. There are more than 2,000 kilometers of groomed routes in Hallingdal. Many routes run through forest areas and high mountains. The season runs from November/December to May.
In the Upper Engadine in Switzerland, winter sports enthusiasts have access to the largest network of cross-country trails in the country. The routes lead past snowy forests, valleys and lakes. A few are still closed, but with the many that are open, everyone will find the right route. There is also a night trail here, which is illuminated until 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
