CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
GLIDING
ON NORDIC TRACKS
Here in the uppermost part of Ötztal, the cross-country ski trails lead through particularly awesome alpine landscapes, whether on flat loops across the Ache river to Windau or on the forest and meadow trail near Zwieselstein. Don't forget: all skating and classic cross-country skiing fans benefit from the high altitude training effect between 1,368 and 1,500 m above sea level...
ALL ABOUT CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is cross-country skiing possible?
In principle, there are two main requirements for cross-country skiing: enough snow as well as groomed cross-country ski trails. Cross-country skiing fans and all those who want to give endurance sports a try will find both in Sölden at the heart of Ötztal. The destination is best known for its ski area, but also offers cross-country ski trails. The Nordic trail status shows you which cross-country ski routes are currently open. By the way: Ötztal offers more than 140 km of varied cross-country ski trails for skaters and fans of the classic style, which are available free of charge.
What do I need when cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing is an intense endurance sport that makes you sweat a lot. Therefore, despite cold temperatures are possible, you should wear breathable, tight-fitting clothing and follow the "onion principle" – which means several thin layers on top of each other. Depending on the intensity or outside temperature, the right cross-country skiing outfit from head to toe could look like this:
- Headband, neck gaiter/scarf or thin cap
- Functional underwear & thin cross-country ski jacket that protects against wind; optional vest or lycra jersey as a mid-layer in colder temperatures
- Skin-tight pants or softshell cross-country ski pants
- Thin gloves; in cold temperatures thicker gloves or mittens may be needed
- Thin socks that reach up to the calf (classic knee-length ski socks are usually too warm)
The expert sports shops in Sölden will be happy to advise you on choosing the right cross-country ski clothing. You can find out everything about cross-country skiing in the region HERE.
Where can you enjoy great cross-country skiing?
There is good and cheap – oh, even for free - cross-country skiing in Sölden in Ötztal. Although the destination is primarily known for its ski area beyond the country's borders, the "Heartbeat of the Alps" also offers two cross-country ski trails for skating and classic style. Not only Sölden’s cross-country ski trails are free of charge, but also the more than 130 remaining kilometers of cross-country ski routes throughout Ötztal can be used free of charge. HERE you can find out everything about cross-country skiing in Sölden.