Who is this gentle introduction for?

The cross-country skiing paradise of Goms is perfect for beginners and those returning to the sport at any age:

• Would you like to try cross-country skiing for the first time?
• Would you like to get back into it after a long break?
• Would you like a gentle, safe start without group pressure?
• Are you wary of falls, complicated techniques or high fitness requirements?
• Do you have physical limitations, knee, hip or other implants?
• Would you rather start alone or with your loved ones instead of in a group?
• Would you like to find out whether classic or skating is better for you?

Many of our guests start out feeling apprehensive about their first time – that's completely normal. We’ll meet you where you are.

Step by step towards your cross-country experience

1. A brief introduction
   We clarify by telephone, e-mail or on site what is important to you, whether you have any previous experience and whether there are any health issues. Together we decide whether to try classic or skating – no pressure, just what suits you best.
2. Meeting point of your choice
   We start where it is most convenient for you: at your hotel, holiday apartment or directly at one of the numerous trail entrances. One example is the Nordic Centre in Ulrichen/Geschinen.
3. Rental equipment – completely organised
   You don't have to search for or rent anything yourself. We organise suitable skis, poles and boots for you so that you can arrive relaxed and get started right away.
4. Your first day – safe & relaxed
   First of all, we deliberately spend a few minutes without skis to find the perfect body position, before we start on a flat, safe section and work step by step so that you – and not the skis – take control. Everything is done at your pace, with plenty of humour and patience – glide instead of struggle.
5. Following day(s) (optional) – try classic & skating
   Many guests use one or more additional days to experience both techniques. This allows you to find out which feels more natural to you and gives you more enjoyment.
6. After the lesson
   You will receive simple, easy-to-understand tips with pictures instead of complicated technical terms for your next steps. This allows you to consolidate what you have learned.

Classic or skating – which is right for you?

• When skating is ideal

  Skating is particularly suitable if you:

  • are a good alpine skier
  • do inline skating and/or ice skating
  • are in good physical shape

  In these cases, skating often feels natural very quickly and you benefit from your previous experience of movement.

• When classic is ideal

  Classic is particularly suitable if you:

  • wish to choose the easiest way to get started
  • want to start with a natural movement that your body is already familiar with from walking, hiking or Nordic walking

  You can always learn skating later – much of what you learn in classic skiing will also help you with skating.

Top rental equipment – organised by us

To make your introduction to cross-country skiing as relaxed as possible, we organise all your rental equipment:

• cross-country skis suitable for your level
• poles in the right length
• a good selection of comfortable cross-country boots

You don't have to worry about a thing – we make sure that you will find a nice selection at our cooperation partners (in some cases, the equipment can also be delivered to the hotel, but then the large selection of boots is not available).

Prices for your gentle introduction to cross-country skiing

We will be happy to discuss exact options with you in person – so we can find the solution that best suits you and your goals.

More coaching than teaching

Although we are cross-country skiing instructors, we actually work primarily as coaches. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive support: technically, physically and mentally.

With our wealth of experience, enthusiasm and the tranquillity of the Goms region, we create an environment in which you feel safe, can try things out and gradually find your flow – glide instead of struggle.

Frequently asked questions about getting started

• Am I fit enough to get started?

  Yes, in most cases you are fit enough. Even if your fitness is just slightly above average, you can still start gently. We tailor the pace, exercises and level of difficulty to each individual.

  Many of our guests come to us with moderate fitness levels or after long breaks – but they still manage to get started because we begin at a pace that feels comfortable and safe for you.

• What is the procedure if I am afraid of falling?

  This concern is common and understandable. At the beginning, we deliberately spend a few minutes without skis to find the perfect body position, which significantly reduces the risk of falling. Then we start on easy and flat terrain and introduce you to gliding step by step.

  You will have plenty of time to build confidence. No pressure, no rush. With controlled, calm movements and clear images, your confidence will grow continuously.

• Can I go cross-country skiing despite having knee, hip or other implants?

  In many cases, yes. Both classic and skating are basically controlled movements that are easy on the joints. You can easily avoid demanding uphill passages, steep descents and the like on the Goms plateau.

  It is important that you inform us briefly and let us know where you feel any limitations. We will then select suitable exercises, pace and technique to ensure that your introduction to the sport is safe and enjoyable. If you are unsure, it is worth talking to your doctor in advance.

• Do I need any previous experience?

  No, you don't need any previous experience. Many of our guests are trying cross-country skiing – classic or skating – for the very first time.

  We start from scratch, explain everything in simple terms and meet you exactly where you are – without technical jargon and without pressure to keep up.

• Which is better for me, classic or skating?

  It's best to make this decision together. As a guide:

  Skating is particularly suitable if you are a good alpine skier, inline skater or ice skater and are in good general fitness.

  Classic is ideal if you are looking for the easiest way to get started and want to begin with a movement that your body is familiar with from walking, hiking or Nordic walking. You can always learn skating later – much of what you learn in classic skiing will also help you with skating.

• What should I wear?

  You don't need special cross-country skiing clothing. The important thing is to dress in layers. Warm, flexible winter clothing that is breathable and doesn't restrict your movement – for example, as you would wear for a sporty winter or snowshoe hike.

  Gloves, a cap or headband and sunglasses are highly recommended. If you like, we can give you tips in advance, depending on the temperature and weather forecast in Obergoms.

• How does the meeting point work?

  We make it as easy as possible for you. We start where it is most convenient for you: at Pische Sport in Oberwald, at Gommer Sport in Ulrichen, at your hotel, at your holiday apartment or directly at one of the cross-country ski trail entrances, for example at the Nordic Centre Ulrichen/Geschinen.

  We will discuss the exact meeting point with you in advance – so that everything is clear for you and you can arrive relaxed.

• Do I need to bring my own equipment?

  No, you don't need to bring your own equipment. We will organise suitable cross-country skis, poles and boots for you from our partners.

  All we need is your height, shoe size and weight. In some cases, the equipment can also be delivered to your hotel – but then you won't have the wide selection of boots available on site.

• Can I start on my own or as a couple?

  Of course. Many beginners come alone, as a pair or with a friend. This provides additional security and makes the experience even more enjoyable.

  We coach you together in a relaxed setting so that everyone can learn at their own pace – without group pressure.

• Can I book spontaneously or do I need to book in advance?

  Spontaneous bookings often work out surprisingly well, especially if you are flexible in terms of time of day. Even if the online booking portal does not show any available instructors, it is still worth contacting us.

  For weekends, public holidays and holiday periods, we recommend booking in advance so that we can accommodate your preferred dates.