FAST & FLUID - INTRO TO SKATING WEEK
South Tyrol, Italy
TRIP GRADE
LOCATION
TRIP TYPE
DURATION
IMPROVER
RIDNAUN, ITALY
SKATE
7 NIGHTS
GROUP SIZE
4-6
The Intro to Skate Week is designed for those new to skate skiing or looking to build solid foundations in this dynamic, flowing technique. Guided by expert instructors, you’ll learn balance, edge control, and timing through structured drills and practical sessions on wide, forgiving trails. Each day combines focused technical development with gentle journeys that bring your new skills to life.
Your base for the week is the Erlebnisort Gassenhof, a family-run alpine hotel known for its panoramic infinity pool, indulgent spa and outstanding local cuisine. After a day in the sunshine developing your skills, unwind with a sauna, massage or a quiet swim, before sitting down to a freshly prepared meal. For those curious, the hotel also produces its own small-batch high-altitude gin.
The Ridnaun Valley offers a variety of beautifully prepared trails winding through forests, meadows, and alpine landscapes. The 12 km Maiern loop follows the Fernerbach stream, with options for gentle climbs and extra laps, while the illuminated 3.5 km night track offers magical evening skiing. A short drive away, the Platschjoch Panorama loop above the tree line gives you 14.9 km of rolling, high-alpine terrain with sweeping views and a traditional hut stop along the way.
By the end of the week, you’ll be skating smoothly and confidently gliding with rhythm, efficiency, and a real sense of freedom on snow.
ITINERARY
Itineraries are subject to change based on weather conditions and hotel events.
Ski sessions are generally from 9:00 - 11:00 and from 14:00 - 16:00.
Evenings are to be enjoyed at your leisure. The group table is booked for 19:00, meet in the lounge from 18:30.
Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome
16:00 Pick-up from Innsbruck airport and transfer to Ridnaun (approx. 1–1.5 hrs).
Check into the 4* superior Gassenhof Hotel.
Evening welcome drink and orientation: meet your coaches and an overview of your week.
Days 2 - 6 – Discover, Develop and Enjoy
Our Intro to Skating Week is designed to help you build a strong, confident foundation in the dynamic art of skate skiing.
Mornings will be structured drills and teaching where you will start by learning the key building blocks; balance, edge control, weight transfer and timing.
In the afternoon you’ll get to practise your new skills. As the week progresses, these fundamentals are implemented on wider trails and gentle gradients.
As the day draws to a close, unwind in the hotel’s wellness spa, enjoy a peaceful walk, or simply recharge for the following days adventure on snow.
By week’s end, you’ll have developed the coordination, rhythm and endurance to ski fluidly across varied terrain, gliding with confidence, conserving energy and truly experiencing the flow of Nordic skating.
Day 7 – Valley Tour
The final day will take you on the 12 km valley loop gliding through Ridnaun’s open meadows and trails with an opportunity to experience skating on the loops used for International biathlon competition.
Along the way, pause to soak up the alpine sunshine and share a well-earned hot chocolate with your group. A perfect ending to a week of skill, discovery and true Nordic adventure.
Day 8 – Departure
09:00 Morning transfer back to Innsbruck
Depart as a more confident cross-country skier, with new friends and memories of South Tyrol’s hospitality, scenery, and traditions.