Ski Beneath the Stars
The Moonlight Journey is a carefully curated South Tyrolean ski experience designed to offer the most rewarding way to experience one of the most atmospheric events in Nordic skiing. Combining expert guidance, spectacular mountain scenery and the anticipation that builds throughout Moonlight Classic week, the trip helps guests approach the event with confidence whilst enjoying the culture, landscapes and alpine lifestyle of the Dolomites.
Your home for the week is Hotel Gassenhof, a family-run alpine retreat in the Ridnaun Valley. Exceptional wellness facilities, stylish alpine interiors and outstanding regional cuisine create a refined and welcoming atmosphere, while warm South Tyrolean hospitality provides the perfect setting in which to relax and prepare for the week ahead.
The Moonlight Classic is one of the most distinctive events on the Ski Classics circuit. Taking place after sunset on the spectacular trails of Seiser Alm, the race transforms the mountains into an unforgettable winter stage beneath the peaks of the Dolomites. Throughout the week, guests ski sections of the route and explore the remarkable terrain that makes this one of Nordic skiing's most memorable and atmospheric experiences.
Who this trip is for:
Skiers looking to experience the Moonlight Classic as part of a wider South Tyrolean adventure
Improver and intermediate classic skiers seeking confidence and support for their first long distance race
Travellers who value atmosphere, scenery, and carefully curated experiences
Couples, friends, and solo travellers looking for a unique winter escape
Activity level: Moderate → Challenging
Skiing experience: Improver → Advanced
Throughout the Week, Coaching Focuses On:
Building confidence and efficiency in classic skiing and developing race pacing strategy
Improving climbing and descending skills on varied terrain
Preparing for the atmosphere and practicalities of skiing after dark
A Typical Day
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.
Arrive at Innsbruck Airport where you will be met by your Wildtrack Nordic guide. Our complimentary group transfer departs the airport at 15:00, travelling approximately 1 hour through the spectacular Alpine scenery of the Brenner Pass and into the beautiful Ridnaun Valley.
After settling into Hotel Gassenhof, there is time to relax and enjoy your first evening in South Tyrol. A welcome dinner and briefing introduce the week ahead.
The week begins by exploring the exceptional trails surrounding the Ridnaun Valley. The focus is on building confidence, refining technique and settling into the rhythm of skiing in South Tyrol. Spectacular alpine scenery and perfectly prepared trails provide a wonderful introduction to one of Italy's premier cross-country skiing destinations.
Today we travel to Seiser Alm, home of the Moonlight Classic. Skiing sections of the event route provides valuable familiarity with the terrain while offering spectacular views across Europe's largest high-altitude alpine plateau. Surrounded by the iconic Dolomite peaks, this is often one of the visual highlights of the entire week.
Today's skiing explores further afield through the interconnected trail systems of the region. Combining varied terrain, beautiful scenery and rewarding skiing, the journey highlights the diversity of South Tyrol's winter landscapes. As confidence grows, guests begin preparing for the unique challenge that awaits later in the week.
Another chance to Ski at Seiser Alm, becoming confident as we ski more sections of the race route, providing valuable familiarity with the terrain while offering spectacular views across Europe's largest high-altitude alpine plateau. Surrounded by the iconic Dolomite peaks, this is often one of the visual highlights of the entire week.
With event evening approaching, the pace becomes more relaxed. Guests have time to enjoy Hotel Gassenhof's panoramic spa and wellness facilities before travelling to Bolzano to collect race bibs and event packs. Following an early evening meal, final ski waxing preparations are completed as anticipation builds beneath the Dolomite peaks.
The highlight of the week. As darkness falls over the Dolomites, skiers gather beneath one of the world's most spectacular mountain skylines. Skiing under moonlight and floodlit trails across the Seiser Alm plateau creates a truly unique Nordic skiing experience. Completing the event beneath the towering Dolomite peaks provides a memorable conclusion to an unforgettable South Tyrolean journey.
Following a final breakfast, we leave Hotel Gassenhof at 09:00, arriving at Innsbruck Airport at approximately 10:00.
As your journey home begins, you'll leave with memories of spectacular mountain scenery, exceptional South Tyrolean hospitality and the unique experience of participating in one of Europe's most distinctive cross-country skiing events.
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 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 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.
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.
The Moonlight Classic is one of the most atmospheric experiences in Nordic skiing. Combining spectacular Dolomite scenery, South Tyrolean culture, and the unforgettable experience of skiing beneath the stars, it stands apart as one of the most distinctive events on the Ski Classics circuit. The Moonlight Journey is designed to help you experience every part of that story—from your first ski session in South Tyrol to the remarkable moment of gliding across Seiser Alm after dark.
Hosted participation in the iconic Moonlight Classic
Small groups (maximum 6 guests) with expert coaching and support
Dedicated skiing on the trails of Seiser Alm
Luxury accommodation, wellness facilities, and exceptional cuisine at the Gassenhof
A carefully curated blend of skiing, culture, atmosphere, and alpine adventure
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.
Physical level: Moderate to challenging
The Moonlight Classic week is designed for confident cross-country skiers. Expect longer periods on snow as we explore the amazing Seiser Alm Plateau and rehearse sections of the race route. To note; the terrain is rolling with some steeper climbs and descents, so we will travel at a comfortable pace and the main physical consideration is the time on the skis not the steepness of the hills. Guests should arrive fit enough to recover comfortably between consecutive days of skiing. The race itself is over varied terrain, , the tracks are wide and open, there are several rehydration and feeding stations along the route and guests are encouraged to enjoy the race and not worry about timings or positions. The whole event is atmospheric and unlike any other race or experience you have had on skis before.
Skiing Experience: Improver to advanced
All skiers from improver level to advanced skiers will appreciate both the technical coaching delivered in the build up to the big day and the main event. the skiing at Seiser Alm is varied, so a strong grasp of all Classic techniques and the ability to smoothly transition between them is required.
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)
