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Scandinavia – a cross-country skier’s paradise
Given then that it is something of a national sport, it is no surprise that these countries’ cross-country networks stretch quite literally for hundreds of miles (Gålå boasts 230 kilometres of trails, Sjusjøen 300 kilometres and Ylläs 330 kilometres) and are superbly maintained and waymarked. Furthermore, they are not just designed for dedicated enthusiasts but instead offer something for everyone, from short loops for beginners to long-distance trails for experienced skiers, with plenty of intermediate-level itineraries for those in between. This is because cross-country is seen as a sport for all, and is very definitely a family activity. Children are encouraged to take to the trails at an early age, and those too young to ski are towed in small pucks. Though you would be forgiven for thinking that all this must mean that the trails get quite crowded, because of the sheer size of the ski domains, away from the start of the trails they tend to be remarkably quiet, enabling you to ski very much at your own pace, admiring the striking snow-clad landscapes of mountains, forest, moorland and frozen lakes as you go. You may even spot wildlife such as an elk or an Arctic fox. However far you may venture, though, you can rest assured that you will come across a ‘hut’ before long where you can pause for a rest. Ranging from informal cafés where you can buy hot drinks and snacks to unmanned wooden shelters where you can make a fire from the wood provided, these are positioned at regular intervals along the trails.
Should you feel like a break from cross-country skiing, most villages also boast some downhill pistes. Naturally, these are just as well organised, and lift queues are non-existent. In addition, you can often try your hand at other, more unusual winter activities, from ice-fishing to dog-sledding. Inntravel’s Scandinavian destinationsOur winter programme features four Norwegian villages, plus one in Finland. These are authentic villages immersed in magnificent scenery, all offering superb skiing and a wide range of other activities. We offer the best hotel in each village. Each has its own character and special charm, but at all of them you will find high standards of comfort and excellent facilities as well as genuine hospitality. Families are warmly welcomed and well catered for. Norway
Fefor Hotel, Fefor – a historic hotel (boasting a pool, ice rink, squash courts and saunas) in a magnificent location above a frozen lake in its own woodland dale. The trails, suitable for novices upwards, lead direct from the door. Gålå Høgfjellshotell, Gålå – a justly popular hotel that earns consistently high praise. There is direct access to the cross-country trails, and the downhill skiing is nearby too. Rustad Hotel, Sjusjøen – a cosy hotel above Lillehammer offering warm hospitality and skiing for all levels from the door into the vast Olympic cross-country domain. You can even learn with British instructor Keith. Fossheim Hotell, Hemsedal – a hotel steeped in the traditions of hospitality, offering easy access to some of Northern Europe's best downhill skiing amid the majestic landscapes of the 'Scandinavian Alps'. The excellent cross-country skiing also caters very well for all abilities. FinlandYlläshumina Hotel, Ylläs – a highly-praised hotel with a great sauna and a first-rate ski room where you can get advice from owner Toivo Qvist. From here you can ski directly onto the fells or across the lake, with a daily drop-off service that takes you to various points within the domain if you want to explore further afield.
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If there is one reason to choose Scandinavia besides the unrivalled snow
record (snow is generally guaranteed from late November to early April,
and often longer in northern parts), it is because cross-country skiing
is an integral part of Norwegian and Finnish culture, having
evolved over the centuries from an essential means of ‘transport’
to a popular winter pastime. Finland in particular has produced numerous
ski champions (including Toivo Qvist, owner of the 
It
doesn’t matter if you are not a skier as Scandinavia is a great place
to learn. With English spoken so widely (and to such a high standard)
it is not difficult to find an English-speaking instructor. You can also
easily hire English-speaking guides for the day if you have skied before
but wish to explore a little further afield than you would otherwise venture.
The only argument against Scandinavia as a ski destination is the shortness
of the days, but this can be easily dismissed thanks to the considerable
number of floodlit trails, meaning that you can enjoy a full day’s
skiing even in December and January.