Cross-country skiing is an outdoor activity that offers stunning mountain views. It has seen a surge in popularity with the general public in recent years. Here is our selection of resorts in the Alps for Nordic skiing.
Close to home, for a half-day or a full day out, cross-country skiing adapts to everyone's needs. Though snow is a must, of course! Snow cover is indeed more reliable at altitude. However, thanks to shaded aspects, some Nordic domains benefit from excellent snow conditions even at low or mid altitude, where snow stays consistent. Other sites have opted for artificial snowmaking. In Savoie and Haute-Savoie, there is no shortage of places to go Nordic skiing. Here is our Top 5.
Les Confins, the renowned domain of La Clusaz
Haute-Savoie has 24 Nordic domains where you can get into cross-country skiing or push your skills further. The Nordic space Les Confins at La Clusaz resort is one of the most celebrated. Situated between 1,420 m and 1,650 m, the plateau offers breathtaking views over the Aravis. It allows skiers of all ages and levels to discover or indulge in the joys of cross-country skiing!
Les Saisies, the highest Nordic domain in the Alps
Climb to between 1,650 and 1,720 metres altitude! The Les Saisies domain is one of the highest and best snow-covered cross-country skiing areas in the Alps. Located in the Beaufortain massif, this playground features 17 trails covering nearly 120 km, from beginner to advanced level.
In 1992, this domain hosted the cross-country events of the Albertville Winter Olympics. And it's also the perfect place for every kind of adventure! You can practise biathlon or mogul jumping, all with a majestic view of Mont White.
A peaceful retreat in Megève at the Livraz domain
For those who prefer peace and quiet, there is also the option of a Nordic domain a little further from the crowds, such as the Megève la Livraz area. Situated between 1,095 m and 1,490 m, the cross-country skiing trails offer tranquillity for taking in nature at your own pace. And it is also possible to go Nordic hiking or sledging on dedicated areas!
Savoie Grand Revard and its 150 km of trails
Nestled within the most impressive forest in the Massif des Bauges, in a pristine natural setting, lies Savoie Grand Revard. This exceptional Nordic domain stretches across more than 150 km of trails — a great opportunity to explore the slopes of la Féclaz, le Revard and Saint-François-de-Sales.
Finally, a "classic" Nordic trail sets off from the Porte de Crolles or la Féclaz. The route winds through untouched wilderness. It is a 12 km crossing, with a track carved out by snowmobile.
Cross-country skiing in the heart of the Plateau des Glières, a historic landmark
We end our selection with the Plateau des Glières. During the Second World War, it was a key stronghold of the French Resistance. Today, a monument in memory of the resistance fighters stands in the heart of the domain, which welcomes walkers and cross-country skiers alike, summer and winter.
For Nordic skiing, there are 29 km of trails spread across two areas: the Plaine de Dran and the area near the Monument National à la Résistance des Glières. They cater to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts. There is also a learning area and a children's garden — something for the whole family!
Check out our collection of cross-country skiing trousers to kit yourself out properly this winter.
And finally, to get started in Nordic skiing the right way, follow the advice of Marie Dorin-Habert, former French Biathlon champion, and Baptiste Lorier, former cross-country skier with the French junior team — both members of the Cimalp team.
