Frequently asked questions and information

Yes, on most of our  trips there is an option to do a day at a down hill ski resort. A one day lift pass at Marmolada, Sellaronda or Livigno is included in the  itineraries. With all our trips guests can mix and match the type of skiing and can add more days of skiing at a downhill resort upon request. Skis can be hired at an additional cost, for $AUD70 approximately for the day. If you intend to telemark, and hire skis, then the only place to ski is Livigno.

With all our listed itineraries, downhill skiing can be substituted at all the resorts we visit. Please contact me to discuss customizing a trip  for you.

The answer is an unqualified yes. For example;  we can run packages for a group of beginners, or a group who would want to be more focused on downhill skiing, or alternatively skating only trip with coaching clinics. (All packages are subject to minimum numbers of 4 people)

Whilst we ski every day, there will be opportunities to have rest days or half days if that suits you. There is some scope for snow walks in amazing settings and visits to local museums are a possibility, dependent on the trip you are interested. Please enquire if you need more detail.

Our trips are within reach of all skiers. However, our trips are typically designed for those who have grasped the basics of cross country skiing.  To give you an idea of where you should be at in your skiing, please read the brief descriptions below.

If you are a classic skier or strider you should be comfortable diagonal striding 4-5 miles (6-8 kms) in a day. You should be able to perform a snow plough to control your descent on green (easy) runs.

If you are a skate skier similar to the strider above. You should be able to offset skate comfortable 4-5 miles (6-8 kms) on undulating terrain in a day. You need to be able to perform a snow plough to control your descent on green (easy) runs.

If you have never cross country skied, you are advised to get a few lessons before departing to Italy, so as to maximize your skiing enjoyment. If you are in need of some lessons, please contact me as I can help, as I am a nordic ski instructor at Falls Creek Victoria, Australia.

Both terms describe the movement on skis using your own weight shift and creating your own momentum by not having the heel of the ski boot attached to the ski. This enables the skier to “walk on skis”. Cross Country (XC) skiing is a term, in some countries that is more of a umbrella term, that incorporates skiing on and off groomed trails. Nordic skiing is the term used in most countries to refer to skiing on groomed trails, whether that be classic or skating technique. Nordic Ski Adventures runs its’ holidays on groomed trails.

Classic technique or striding is what most skiers learn first when taking up XC skiing. Striding is more akin to walking on skis and is easy to learn. Typically, most novices use pattern based or similar on the bottom of the skis, so as to get grip, so that they can walk on the skis. Skating is more akin to roller blading. It is more aerobic and something to aim for once you have developed some competence is striding

If you are happy to classic or skate a few hours each day (6-8 kms or 4 miles) on easy green runs and have an effective snow plough, then this trip is for you. There will be plenty of opportunities for half days and opportunities to explore the villages, shops and local museums. 

Yes. With so many trails and options to the various venues we will be visiting, there will be something for everyone.  Resort maps will be provided, and the more confident and fit skiers may have more of a self-guided day/s at times when skiing in a mixed ability group.

• It would be ideal to have your own skis, boots and poles. In the end you will save yourself time and money. If you wish to hire, it is possible however you may not be able to ski on the days we transfer from one venue to the other. Please use the contact page or email me to arrange. Hire of skis is not included in the trip costs.  Cost to hire basic striders per day is approx E30/day (2023).  If you do require hire of skis, I will book them for you and invoice you for the extra costs. Please see more details at the bottom of this page. 
• If you are a classic skier and want to give skating a go, there will be opportunity to hire skate ski and poles.
• For more detailed information please contact me using the contact form  Messenger, oremail me direct.

All the trails are groomed everyday for both classic and skate skiing. Do whatever you find more enjoyable. The terrain is typically flatter in Italy, than in Australia, as nordic skiing takes place in the valley floors (“fondo”) in Italy. Hence the name for cross country skiing in Italy, sci di fondo! 

One medium suitcase, e.g. a 70-80 litre backpack/suitcase per person is ideal. No extra large hard shell suitcases, as we have limited space in the minibus. Ideally your ‘carry on’ luggage is a small backpack of approximately 40-45 litre day pack. This will enable you to use this pack during your trip when we are transferring between villages and have an extra layer, a jacket, water bottle and snacks with you in the minibus. This day pack will be stored at your feet when we travel in the vehicle. To carry your skis, you will need a ski bag. 

For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.

Yes, please contact me and I may be able to assist you with discounts at Falls Creek XC and general advice.

In every village at least and in most of the hotels there is a laundry service provided at a per item cost, with a typical one day turn around. This is why I suggest in the what to bring page to have 2 sets of thermals.