3 Great Resorts in the Alps to Try Cross Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is perhaps the oldest version of the sport, and one doesn’t rely on the convenience of ski lifts and other forms of travel to get around the pistes. It's freer, rawer and, some say, even more of a thrill than regular skiing. If you're looking at last minute ski deals to the Alps, why not add this to your list of must-trys while you're there?

Many of the great last minute ski deals available are to resorts where you can cross-country ski straight into the mountains. You don’t need to be an expert, either – this variation on the popular sport is good for beginners and advanced skiers alike.

Of course, it all depends on finding the best resort to start from, or make your base. While many resorts are suitable for a cross-country adventure, here are three of the best to consider.

The Three Valleys: Courchevel

Everyone loves the range of last minute ski deals to Courchevel. With a reputation for being one of the best Alpine ski resorts, it’s popular with skiers, snowboarders and anyone up for a fun winter holiday.

Comprising of four villages on different levels, Courchevel 1850 is a great place to start cross-country skiing through the Three Valleys and beyond. Courchevel itself has 66 kilometres of marked and well-maintained ski trails that allow you to take advantage of different routes and circuits from each of the villages. In fact, whatever type of pace you’re looking for, you’ll certainly find it here. Want a leisurely excursion through the forests all the way to La Tania? Not a problem. Want to speed ski from higher up and get to Meribel? There’s a trail for you!

Espace Killy: Val D’Isere

This region includes both Tignes and Val d'Isere, boasting around 300 km of skiing, 97 lifts and high-altitudes to almost 3,500m. That's why getting last minute ski deals to this resort is like winning the lottery for many avid skiers.

For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Val d’Isere is a great base for exploring the area, with 21 km of tracks and trails offering different routes and adventures. Take leisurely runs to the banks of the Ouliette Lake, or begin with some sensational off-piste skiing then relax with some beautiful scenery in La Daille and the far end of Manchet Valley. The Tignes cross-country circuits are also free to use and can offer some great fun.

Paradiski: Les Arcs

With more than 90 km of cross-country tracks throughout this region, the valley between Les Arcs and La Plagne is definitely the Nordic skier’s dream route! Les Arcs itself has 30km of great trails, with varied levels of difficulty and different vistas to enjoy. The entrance to the cross-country area is found behind Nancroix in Pont Baudin; there's also a cross-country centre with lockers, restrooms and a parking lot.

So if you're lucky enough to grab one of those excellent last minute ski deals, add cross-country skiing to the itinerary and enjoy something a little different.

Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays in La Tania and other fantastic locations. If you're looking for last minute ski deals in catered or self catered chalets, we can help. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday call Ski Amis.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.