Nordic skiing

Nassfeld / Nordic skiing

Nordic skiing is increasingly popular and exponents of the art can be seen on the slopes of Nassfeld. The ski school has instructors who can teach Nordic skiing. There are more than 11 kilometres of high-altitude marked cross-country trails up on the mountain. One is on the Italian border - the Seeloipe, a 4.5 kilometre lakeside trail above Sonnenhalpe. Another is 4 kilometres long through the woods at Tressdorfer Alm and accessed from the Millennium Express gondola.

But many cross-country enthusiasts will head for the 50 kilometres of double-track groomed trails at Weissensee which climb to 1,400-metres. Gliding along this network above the frozen Lake Weissensee is a supreme cross-country experience. At some points the cross-country trails run alongside the ice rinks,so entertaining impromptu races often take place between langlaufers and ice-skaters.

Cross-country instructors are also available from the ski schools and they teach both the classical and skating styles. Special packages are organised for cross-country skiers – they can include half-board in a hotel, ski rental for a week and a 3-day cross-country skiing course from 415 euros.

The trails are well-known in cross-country circles for being especially well maintained and have been awarded the Carinthian Cross-country Seal of Quality. They have even received a commendation from Markus Gandler, Olympic silver-medallist and World Champion, who often uses them for training. 'The trails are always in excellent condition,' he says. 'Just like the ones I'm used to in international cross-country competition.'

And of course, apart from ski rental and lessons, cross-country skiing is otherwise completely free throughout Carinthia.