Nassfeld Cross Country 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.