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Check out our new trips for Winter 2026/27
Man Skating with snow flicking off the poles in the Dolomites, Italy.

Fast & Fluid- Learn to Skate Ski, Italy

Trip Grade
Skate Beginner
Location
Ridnaun, South Tyrol , Italy
Duration
7 Nights
Group Size
4-6

Fast & Fluid- Learn to Skate Ski

Feel the Flow

Fast & Fluid is a learn to skate ski holiday designed for those new to Nordic skating or looking to build strong technical foundations. Expert coaching, structured learning and scenic daily journeys help develop balance, coordination and confidence, allowing new skills to progress naturally through movement and time on snow.

Your home for the week is Erlebnisort Gassenhof, a family-run alpine retreat in the Ridnaun Valley. Exceptional wellness facilities, stylish alpine interiors and outstanding regional cuisine create a refined atmosphere, while warm South Tyrolean hospitality makes it an inviting place to relax after each day on the trails.

The Ridnaun Valley offers beautifully prepared trails through forests, meadows and spectacular alpine scenery. Gentle valley routes and panoramic mountain trails provide an ideal environment for learning, creating the perfect setting to develop rhythm, confidence and enjoyment on snow.

Lady skate skiing in Italy.

Who this trip is for:

  • Classic skiers wanting to transition confidently into skating 

  • Individuals, couples, and friends seeking a supportive premium learning environment 

  • Guests wanting relaxed progression within beautiful alpine surroundings 

Activity level: Moderate 

Skiing experience: Beginner

Throughout the week, coaching focuses on: 

  • Building balance, coordination, stability and movement efficiency 

  • Learning controlled speed management and stopping techniques 

  • Building confidence through practical skiing journeys 

Itinerary

A Typical Day

woman skate sking into view In Italy.

Itineraries are subject to change based on weather and snow conditions 

Morning Session (09:00 – 11:00) 

Skating skill development focused on building movement patterns, developing balance and timing. 

Afternoon Session (14:00 – 16:00) 

Short skiing journeys through the Ridnaun Valley — developing coordination, confidence, and early skating flow. 

Evening 

Spa based relaxation and recovery.  Refined group dining from 19:00 with a warm and sociable alpine atmosphere. 

Fast & Fluid- Learn to Skate Ski Itinerary

Your guide will meet you in the arrivals hall at Innsbruck Airport, where the group transfer will depart at 15:00. The journey to Hotel Gassenhof takes approximately one hour. Alternative transfer arrangements may be possible for an additional fee; please enquire before booking for further information.  

  Arrive at Hotel Gassenhof and settle into the welcoming surroundings of the Ridnaun Valley. Take time to relax, enjoy the mountain setting, or explore the hotel before meeting your fellow guests.  

This evening, enjoy a welcome briefing and dinner as we introduce the week ahead and prepare for your Nordic skiing adventure.  

Each day begins with focused coaching sessions designed to develop the foundations of skate skiing. You'll learn balance, stance, weight transfer, edging, and the basic movements that create efficient skating.  

As the week progresses, you'll practise these skills on gentle terrain, gradually linking movements together to create rhythm, flow, and confidence. Short journeys help reinforce learning in real skiing situations.  

By the end of the week, you'll be skiing comfortably using fundamental skate techniques, with the confidence and skills to continue developing your skating journey.  

The final day showcases the finest skating terrain within the Ridnaun Valley. Linking together flowing sections of trail through forests, open meadows, and beneath dramatic alpine peaks, the route rewards guests with long periods of uninterrupted skiing.  

The emphasis is on rhythm, efficiency, and movement, creating a fitting conclusion to a week spent refining skating technique.  

The group departure transfer will leave Hotel Gassenhof at 09:00, arriving at Innsbruck Airport at approximately 10:00. Alternative transfer arrangements may be possible for an additional fee; please enquire in advance for further information.  

Enjoy a final breakfast before beginning your journey home.  

Leave Ridnaun with new skills, memorable experiences, and a deeper appreciation for Nordic skiing in the South Tyrolean mountains.  

Hotel Gassenhof

The Gassenhof is a family-run retreat in South Tyrol, Italy. It blends alpine tradition with contemporary wellness.

The Gassenhof hotel in the south Tyrol, in the brilliant sunshine.

Nestled in the beautiful Ridnaun Valley, Hotel Gassenhof combines exceptional Nordic skiing with the warm hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and luxurious wellness. Family-owned and passionately run, the hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere where every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

After your days exploring the spectacular cross-country trails of the Ridnaun Valley return to the finest wellness facilities in the Wildtrack collection. Relax in the panoramic infinity pool, unwind in the extensive spa and sauna complex, or indulge in a restorative treatment whilst surrounded by magnificent alpine scenery.

As evening falls, enjoy exceptional dining, celebrating the very best of South Tyrolean cuisine, prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients and accompanied by carefully selected local wines. To complete the experience, sample one of the hotel's award-winning handcrafted spirits, distilled on-site. Combining outstanding skiing, exceptional hospitality, remarkable wellness, and unforgettable food, Hotel Gassenhof delivers a luxury alpine experience that extends far beyond the trails.

Dining

Dining at Hotel Gassenhof is one of the true highlights of the week. Each day begins with an extensive buffet breakfast featuring fresh local produce, homemade specialities, and everything needed to prepare for a rewarding day on the trails.

In the evening, guests are treated to an exceptional dining experience, where talented chefs showcase the very best of South Tyrolean cuisine alongside refined Mediterranean influences. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients are transformed into beautifully presented dishes.

To complete the experience, guests can enjoy a carefully selected wine from the hotel's impressive cellar or sample one of the handcrafted spirits produced in the family's own distillery. Combining outstanding cuisine, warm hospitality, and authentic local flavours, dining at Hotel Gassenhof is a memorable part of every stay.

Wellness

Gassenhof hotel outside spa, in the South Tyrol.

Wellness is at the heart of the Hotel Gassenhof experience, providing an exceptional place to relax and recover after a rewarding day on the trails. Guests can unwind in the stunning infinity pool, enjoy a selection of traditional saunas, or simply soak up the peaceful alpine atmosphere from the beautifully designed relaxation areas, all with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

The experience continues at the exclusive Gassenloge Spa, connected to the hotel by an underground passage. Here, guests will discover a luxurious wellness sanctuary featuring a panoramic infinity pool, elegant relaxation lounges, a fully equipped fitness suite, yoga room, beauty spa, and a wide range of indulgent treatments. Combined with the hotel's warm South Tyrolean hospitality, the Gassenloge offers a truly restorative experience and is one of the defining highlights of a stay at Hotel Gassenhof.

Room Type

Hotel Gassenhof bedroom, Italy.

The comfortable and beautifully appointed rooms at Hotel Gassenhof provide a welcoming retreat after a rewarding day on the trails. Blending warm alpine character with contemporary comfort, each room features natural wood finishes, a cosy seating area, and a private balcony with views across the surrounding mountains or the peaceful Ridnaun Valley.

Thoughtfully designed to promote relaxation and recovery, the rooms offer a calm and inviting space in which to unwind, whether enjoying a quiet drink on the balcony, taking in the mountain views, or simply relaxing before dinner.

Solo guests may choose between sharing a twin room or upgrading to single occupancy for additional privacy throughout their stay. Holiday prices are automatically adjusted to reflect your selected room option during the booking process.

Gassenhof hotel Sauna area.
Gassenhof hotel, balcony hanging chair and landscape, Italy.
Gassenhof hotel Gymnasium, Itlay.
Hotel Gassenhof wine cellar, south Tyrol. Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof pasta dish, south Tyrol, Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof, dessert, South Tyrol.
Hotel Gassenhof, Schnapps. South Tyrol Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof Bathroom, South Tyrol.
Hotel Gassenhof bedroom, Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof Spa relaxation area, South Tyrol, Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof breakfast buffet, Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof, dessert 2. South Tyrol Italy.
Hotel Gassenhof Bedroom 2, South Tyrol italy.

What Makes This Trip Different

Man skate skiing with a red jacket on in Switzerland.

Learning to skate ski is about more than technique — it is about finding rhythm, confidence, and connection in movement. Fast & Fluid is designed to provide the space, support, and progression needed to build strong foundations while enjoying the atmosphere, landscapes, and slower pace of a South Tyrolean winter escape. 

By the end of the week, you won’t just have tried skating, you’ll have developed the confidence and understanding to continue progressing and enjoying this dynamic form of cross-country skiing.  

  • Skate-specific beginner programme designed around relaxed progression 

  • Expert cross-country ski coaches with a clear and supportive approach 

  • Small coaching groups (maximum 6 guests) for individual attention 

  • Premium alpine accommodation with spa and exceptional regional cuisine 

 

Useful Trip Information

The meeting point for your holiday is Innsbruck Airport, Austria, a major international airport with direct connections from destinations across Europe and beyond. We are pleased to offer a bespoke transfer.

On arrival day, your transfer from the airport will depart at 15:00.  

On departure day, we will return you to Innsbruck Airport by 10:00, requiring departure from the hotel at 09:00. 

Please contact your guide as soon as possible if your flight is delayed 

From January to March, Ridnaun experiences cold and snowy winter conditions typical of the South Tyrolean Alps, creating excellent conditions for cross-country skiing.

January is usually the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from +5°C to -13°C (41°F to 8.6°F) and regular snowfall.

February begins to warm slightly while maintaining reliable snow conditions, and by March temperatures gradually rise to around 5°C (41°F), with snow still common and longer daylight hours bringing the first signs of spring. 

Breakfast is served buffet style, offering a wide selection of options and the opportunity to prepare a packed lunch for your day on the trails. Evening meals are served as a five-course set menu.

Most dietary requirements can be catered for, including gluten-free, dairy-free, nut allergies, shellfish allergies and egg-free diets. Please advise us at the time of booking so arrangements can be made with the hotel. Drinks with evening meals are not included and can be purchased separately. Any additional snacks or refreshments during the day are at your own expense. 

Activity level: Moderate

A good level of sustained activity with varied terrain.

Moderate holidays are suited to guests with a reasonable level of fitness who are comfortable being active for extended periods. Expect longer days on snow, greater daily distances and more varied terrain, balanced with expert coaching and time to appreciate the destination. Guests should arrive prepared for several consecutive days of enjoyable physical activity

Skiing experience: Beginner

No previous experience required.

Beginner holidays are designed for guests who are completely new to cross-country skiing or have very limited experience. You will learn the fundamental techniques from the ground up, including balance, movement, climbing, descending, stopping and turning, within a relaxed and supportive coaching environment.

Luggage 

We kindly ask that you travel with a maximum of 1 piece of hold luggage and 2 pieces of hand luggage, as storage space within transfer vehicles can be limited. When packing for a winter holiday in Finnish Lapland, suitable winter clothing is essential to ensure comfort in changing snow and weather conditions. 

Ski Equipment 

We will provide skis, boots and poles selected according to your height, weight, shoe size and technical ability, ensuring equipment is matched appropriately for comfort, performance and enjoyment throughout your holiday. 

Personal Equipment to Bring 

Please ensure you bring the following items for comfort during your holiday: 

• Rucksack – A 15–20 litre day pack with waist and chest straps, suitable for carrying water, snacks and additional clothing whilst out on the trails. 
• 1 litre water container – Hydration tubes can freeze during Arctic winter conditions, so a standard water bottle or insulated container is recommended. 

Additional Items 

Sunscreen, sunglasses, small thermos for hot drinks, head torch and footwear suitable for icy winter conditions. 

General Clothing 

We recommend bringing suitable winter clothing to ensure you remain comfortable throughout your holiday: 

• Jackets: Waterproof jacket, fleece or windproof mid-layer, and a down or insulated jacket. 
• Trousers: Nordic ski trousers that are lightweight, windproof, warm and ideally form fitting. Waterproof trousers are optional for additional protection. 
• Tops: Long-sleeved thermal base layer and lightweight fleece or insulating mid-layer. 
• Accessories: Two pairs of gloves (one lightweight and one insulated), warm hat, headband or buff/scarf, and medium-thickness socks. 

Your insurance responsibilities

These are described in detail within the Insurance Information. As an overview you must have adequate insurance that covers you for:

  • Medical expenses and repatriation in the event of medical need 

  • Mountain Rescue, apart from Norway where it is free 

  • Cancellation or curtailment of arrangements as a result of circumstances outside of your control (including accident or illness and inability to travel for other reasons) 

  • Personal accident risks, covering injury, illness or death

  • Personal liability 

  • Personal effects and money 

You must provide us with the name of your travel insurer, policy number and insurer’s emergency contact number 6 weeks before your holiday by updating the information in your account, which can be accessed via the members area of the website.

You should purchase insurance at the time of booking to protect payments made towards a trip that does not take place for any reason.

Our insurance responsibilities

Should Wildtrack Nordic become insolvent or cease to trade, your initial deposit and any other monies paid towards your trip are fully protected. Details of the policy and underwriter are included in the Insurance Information document.

Wildtrack Nordic does not have any responsibility to insure:

  • Your flights and any other travel apart from the free shuttle from and to the airport as part of your trip

  • Your belongings

  • Your equipment, if you are using your own

The requirements for your official documentation can be found at Clause 16 of our Booking Terms and Conditions, but in summary: 

  • Passports: you will need a valid passport; many countries require 6+ months’ validity beyond your return date 

  • Visas: you will need to confirm the requirements early and ensure you have at least one blank page in your passport 

If you are a guest travelling to one of our European holidays we recommend that you check for updates on the new ETIAS website.

What is Included 
• Professionally qualified guides 
• Accommodation and meals throughout your stay 
• One group airport transfer on arrival and departure 
• Technical ski equipment (skis, boots and poles) 
• Access to hotel facilities and amenities 

 What is Not Included 
• Flights 
• Personal travel insurance 
• Drinks, snacks and food outside of planned meals 
• Additional transport not specified within the itinerary 
• Spa treatments and additional wellness services 
• Single occupancy supplements (please refer to Booking Information) 

Available dates for Fast & Fluid- Learn to Skate Ski

DATES

17 – 24 Jan 2027

CODE

WTN_FF_001

AVAILABILITY

Spaces available

PRICE

£2750

DATES

28 Feb 2027 – 07 Mar 2027

CODE

WTN_FF_002

AVAILABILITY

Spaces available

PRICE

£2750