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 practising Nordic skiing.
Close to home, for a half-day or a full day, cross-country skiing adapts to everyone's desires. Though some will say: only if there's snow! Snow cover is indeed more reliable at altitude. However, thanks to shaded aspects, some Nordic domains enjoy reliable snow conditions even at mid or low altitude. Others have opted for snowmaking systems. In Savoie and Haute-Savoie, there are many places to enjoy Nordic skiing. Here is our Top 5.
Les Confins, the famous La Clusaz domain
Haute-Savoie has 24 Nordic ski areas where you can try cross-country skiing or improve your technique. The Les Confins Nordic area at La Clusaz resort is one of the most renowned. Situated between 1,420 m and 1,650 m, the plateau offers breathtaking views of the Aravis. It allows skiers of all ages and abilities to discover or indulge in the joys of cross-country skiing!
Les Saisies, the highest Nordic domain in the Alps
Reach elevations between 1,650 and 1,720 metres! 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 pistes covering nearly 120 km, from beginner to advanced level.
In 1992, this domain hosted the cross-country events of the Albertville Olympic Games. And it's also the perfect place for all kinds of pursuits! You can take part in biathlon or mogul jumping, with a majestic view of Mont-White thrown in.
Peace and quiet in Megève on the Livraz estate
For those who prefer peace and quiet, there's the option of a Nordic ski area a little further from the crowds, such as the Megève Livraz domain. Situated between 1,095 m and 1,490 m, the cross-country skiing pistes offer tranquillity to take in nature at your own pace. And it is also possible to go Nordic hiking or sledging in dedicated areas!
Savoie Grand Revard and its 150 km of pistes
Tucked within the most impressive forest of the Massif des Bauges, Savoie Grand Revard is a setting of unspoilt nature. This exceptional Nordic domain spans over 150 km of pistes — a perfect opportunity to explore the runs at la Féclaz, le Revard and Saint François de Sales.
Finally, a "classic" Nordic piste departs from the porte de Crolles or la Féclaz. The route winds through untamed nature in fresh powder snow. It is a 12 km crossing, with a track set by snowmobile.
Cross-country skiing at the heart of the Plateau des Glières, a landmark of history
We round off our selection with the Plateau des Glières. During the Second World War, it was a key site of the French Resistance. Today, a monument in memory of the resistance fighters stands in the heart of the domain, which welcomes hikers and cross-country skiers alike, summer and winter.
For Nordic skiing, there are 29 km of pistes spread across two areas: the Plaine de Dran and the area near the Monument National à la Résistance des Glières. They cater for skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts. There is also a teaching 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 French junior cross-country ski team member — both part of team Cimalp.
