SKIING AND WINTER ACTIVITIES

Do I need to be an experienced skier?

If you've never been on skis before, you'll want to get the hang of just standing, walking, and turning round, with skis on your feet. Then we'll get you cruising down a gentle gradient, adjusting your weight distribution till you feel secure on your skis. You'll learn how to land comfortably, and get up easily, if you fall. By lunchtime you'll be ready to set off on a fairly flat prepared trail, practising your 'gliding stride'. Already you're skiing! [Back to the top]

Do I need to be really fit?

No, it's not just for the fit and glowingly healthy! Anyone can do it, at his or her own level. There isn't really a skiing equivalent of a gentle ramble, though - think of it as more like a brisk walk, or gentle jogging pace. Cross-country skiing limbers up the whole body, and exercises all the muscle groups. No other activity does this. But remember, you don't have to be an athlete. Even if not too fit at all, you can find a level that suits you and makes you feel good. [Back to the top]

I can already ski fine - will I get bored?

More and more of our clients come back, and each year they're more experienced, and able to do more. Control and steerability on descents, and a gliding stride that permits you to do a lot of kilometres without getting tired, come into their own here. If you need help our rep¨ can offer tips and suggestions, though a lesson or two at the local ski school might be better?. Ski schools can usually also teach telemark turns (elegant, cool, difficult) and the skating step used by racers and show-offs! [Back to the top]

What else can I do apart from skiing?

Many of the ski villages we visit also have good downhill facilities in the area. Snowshoeing is getting more popular too - you can get to places skiers can't go, and get closer to shy wild animals. There's also winter walking available at some locations, with well maintained and signposted trails. Dog sledging (really exciting, as the dogs don't wait around!) can be arranged, and there's horse-drawn sledging, snowmobiling, and curling on offer, too. Uniquely Scandinavian ways to get along include kick sledding, and ski joring (with a horse pulling you along)! For more information on which villages are best for different things - give us a ring. [Back to the top]

Do I need any specialist clothing for my winter holiday?

You don't need to buy any expensive ski clothing - what you wear for walking is usually fine. You generate quite a lot of heat, so that you are usually taking clothes off! The best plan is to wear a thermal vest, several light layers and to carry a waterproof. Waterproof over trousers are very useful as they tend to keep you drier when you are still mastering the technique. Later, when you're gliding along, they keep the wind off you. You won't need gaiters for cross country skiing but, if you already have a pair, they will come in handy for snow shoeing - although it's not necessary to buy a pair specially for your trip as the waterproof trousers should be fine for most conditions. [Back to the top]