ACTION PACKED WINTER FUN

Winter sports enthusiasts looking to spice up their ski break can take a day or two off and go Nordic skiing (cross-country skiing) in almost every ski country on the planet.

Nordic skiing, ski du fond in France, appeals to those skiers seeking a quiet break or those who think their skiing days are over, including oldies who hate too-busy  pistes full of speeding youngsters. Here’s some of the fun things to try –

• Snowshoeing,
• Skating on frozen lakes,
• Tobogganing
• Trekking on snow shoes
• Snowmobiling
• Husky sledging
• Resting in the hotel spa (see krallerhof.com/atmosphere) for GSG’s choice.   

You have even got a travel company, Ski Solutions, to pair you up with non-ski winter adventure trips. They offer a selection of experiences that go beyond the slopes. From snowmobiling in Italy to snowshoeing in the French Alps here’s some new adventures -

Husky Safari in Norway

Go on a two and a half hour husky safari in the Norwegian resort of Trysil, where you will drive your sled through winter landscapes, over frozen lakes, through snowy  forests and winding trails. Guests are guided by professional instructors who provide hands-on sled driving instructions and share insights on the local wildlife and surroundings. The adventure culminates in a warm drinks in a traditional forest hut. 

 Trysil, on a bed and breakfast basis from £1,095pp, for accommodation, flights and shared transfers. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700.

Snowboarding Verbier 

Verbier is a top destination for snowboarders seeking a mix of challenging terrain and freestyle opportunities. With 400km of pistes and 89 lifts, this is one of Europe’s largest ski areas, boasting a huge fun park with 20 freestyle elements, including rails, boxes and kickers.  For an even greater challenge, Verbier is linked to neighbouring Nendaz and Veysonnaz. 

 7-nights bed and breakfast from £2,395pp, for accommodation, flights and rail transfers. www.skisolutions.com .

Snowshoeing  Val

Snowshoeing the French Alps dream resort of Val d’Isere at a slower pace, with local guides leading. This peaceful, self-paced activity is perfect for nature lovers or those seeking a quiet retreat in the mountains.

 7 nights on a chalet board basis from £1,587pp, including accommodation and transfers.

Ice Skating in Obergurgl

After a day on the slopes, enjoy ice skating Obergurgl, Austria on a rink near St. Bernhard’s Mountaineers Chapel, offering an idyllic setting with mountain views. Perfect for beginners and families. The rink’s quiet atmosphere is ideal for a relaxing evening skate. The rink is open throughout the winter season.

 7 night half-board  stay at Hotel Bellevue, Obergurgl costs  from £1,299 for accommodation, flights and transfers

Snowmobiling Courmayeur

Snowmobiling in Courmayeur is an adrenaline fuelled way to explore the Mont Blanc massif. Guided tours offer views of the towering Mont Blanc peak. Riders control their own snowmobiles, over a mix of steep slopes and Alpine tracks in one of Europe’s most scenic locations. 

Le Massif Hotel & Lodge, Courmayeur, on a bed and breakfast basis costs from £1,795pp.

Contact Ski Solutions at www.skisolutions.com