Pre-Race Coaching & Racing with Olympic Cross-Country Skier Andrew Musgrave
Based at the legendary Pellestova Hafjell Hotell, this trip blends purposeful training sessions, small-group coaching and the inclusive, rebellious ethos that defines both Andrew Musgrave and Janteloppet itself. This is not about start pens, rankings or exclusivity - it’s about skiing hard, skiing well, and being part of something refreshingly different.
Whether your goal is to perform at your best on race day or to experience a Nordic race done properly, this is a rare opportunity to train, prepare and race alongside one of the sport’s most respected athletes, guided by Wildtrack Nordic’s True to the Trail philosophy.
This Wildtrack Nordic Janteloppet experience is designed to give you confidence, clarity and composure going into race day.
Across the week, you’ll ski on race-relevant terrain, refine skating technique, work on pacing and fuelling strategies, gaining insight into how elite athletes approach preparation without pressure or ego. Sessions are supported by Wildtrack Nordic coaches, with Andrew Musgrave leading sessions, discussions and race briefings.
The week builds naturally towards Janteloppet, ensuring you arrive on the start line feeling prepared, calm and ready to ski your best.
This trip is led in collaboration with Andrew Musgrave, Olympic cross-country skier and one of the most respected voices in international Nordic skiing.
Andrew is known not only for his Olympic performances, but for his honest, thoughtful and inclusive approach to the sport. His values align naturally with both Wildtrack Nordic and the ethos of Janteloppet, focusing on effort, enjoyment and authenticity rather than status or hierarchy.
Throughout the week, Andrew contributes to:
On-snow training sessions
Technique and pacing discussions
Race mindset and preparation talks
Pre-race briefings and insights
All coaching is delivered in small Wildtrack Nordic groups, ensuring individual feedback, meaningful progression and a relaxed, supportive environment.
“Janteloppet is about stripping things back to what really matters — skiing hard, enjoying the challenge, and doing it together.”
“You don’t need to be an elite athlete to approach a race properly. Good preparation, smart pacing and confidence on your skis make a huge difference.”
“I like events and trips that feel honest. No barriers, no ego — just people who love skiing and want to do it well.”
“That’s why Janteloppet works. Everyone starts together, everyone earns their result, and everyone shares the experience.”
This trip is ideal for:
Confident skate skiers preparing for Janteloppet
Skiers who value process, learning and experience over prestige
Those who want insight from an Olympic athlete in a down-to-earth environment
Anyone who believes Nordic skiing should be challenging, inclusive and deeply rewarding
English or Norwegian Speakers
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.
Afternoon
Arrival at Pellestova Hafjell Hotell
Check-in and equipment setup
Ski storage allocation and trail overview
Late Afternoon Ski (Optional)
Easy 60–75 min skate
Focus: feeling the snow, glide, relaxed movement
Evening
Welcome briefing
Introduction to the week structure and Janteloppet format
Dinner at Pellestova
Purpose: Settle in, remove travel stiffness, and establish a relaxed, confident start to the week.
Morning Session (09:00–11:00)
On-snow skate technique session
Focus on:
Efficient V2 and V2 alternate
Balance, glide and tempo
Terrain-adapted movement
Andrew Musgrave Input
Technique cues used at elite level
“What actually matters” in skate efficiency
Afternoon Session (14:00–16:00)
Terrain-based skiing on rolling plateau
Learning how to ski open sections efficiently
Introduction to race-relevant pacing awareness
Evening
Video / discussion session
Andrew: Approaching races without overthinking
Morning Session (09:00–11:30)
Interval-based session on Janteloppet-style terrain
Focus:
Sustainable race pace
Transitions between flats, climbs and descents
Drafting and positioning in open terrain
Andrew Musgrave Session
Race pacing strategies
Managing effort when adrenaline rises
Afternoon Session (Optional / Light)
Easy ski or recovery glide (45–60 min)
Mobility and stretching guidance
Evening
Group Q&A with Andrew
Race mindset, nerves and expectations
Morning Session (09:00–12:00)
Longer endurance ski
Skiing key sections of the Janteloppet course
Focus on:
Fueling while skiing
Holding form as fatigue builds
Confidence on exposed sections
Andrew Musgrave Input
How elite skiers manage long races
Knowing when to push and when to hold back
Morning Session (09:30–11:00)
Short, sharp pre-race session
Focus:
Race cadence
Fast starts
Efficient acceleration
Andrew Musgrave Session
Final race reminders
Simplifying race day decisions
Afternoon
Full rest
Bib collection (if applicable)
Equipment finalisation
Evening
Pre-race briefing
Weather, course conditions and start strategy
Early dinner and recovery focus
Morning
Breakfast and final checks
Warm-up routine guidance
Race
Support Team
On-site race support and insight
Start-area presence
Post-Race
Finish-line celebration
Recovery drink and shared reflections
Purpose: Apply the week’s learning and fully experience the unique atmosphere of Janteloppet.
Pellestova Hotel is a modern yet historic mountain hotel at the top of Hafjell, perfect for cross-country skiing and culinary experiences in beautiful surroundings. Since 1946, Pellestova has been a beloved stop for cross-country skiers in the Øyer mountains – today, they are a full-service mountain hotel offering comfortable rooms, locally sourced food and one of Norway’s most distinctive wine cellars.
The restaurant focuses on local ingredients, mountain cuisine and gourmet dishes, and the wine cellar, at 970 meters above sea level, boasts an impressive selection from around the world. Here, you can enjoy peaceful surroundings, ski trails right outside the door and have year-round access to nature.
Pellestova is immensely proud of its restaurant, where food is considered far more than simply a meal; it is an important part of the overall guest experience and something to be savoured and enjoyed. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding mountains and forests, the culinary team strives to showcase the very best local ingredients, celebrating the flavours and traditions of Norwegian cuisine.
Much of the wild game served originates from nearby Øyerfjellet, whilst seasonal ingredients are carefully selected to reflect the character of the region. Combining traditional recipes with contemporary flair, the talented chefs create dishes that are both visually beautiful and wonderfully satisfying. Whether enjoying a hearty breakfast before a day on the trails or a carefully prepared evening meal overlooking the mountains, dining at Pellestova is a memorable part of the experience and perfectly complements a week spent exploring the Norwegian winter landscape.
The new training gym at Pellestova is a standout feature, blending modern design with top-tier fitness equipment. Spacious and filled with natural light, it offers a refreshing atmosphere that motivates guests to move. Whether you're into cardio, strength training, or functional workouts, the gym is fully equipped to support your routine.
The stylish and spacious rooms at Pellestova provide a comfortable retreat in the heart of the Norwegian mountains. Thoughtfully designed in a contemporary Nordic style, they combine natural materials, modern furnishings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere to create the perfect place to relax after a day on the trails.
Large windows invite the surrounding mountain landscape indoors, whilst the peaceful setting encourages rest and recovery. Combining Scandinavian simplicity with modern comfort, the rooms provide an ideal base from which to enjoy both the exceptional skiing and tranquil mountain surroundings that make Pellestova so special.
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.
Please note that single occupancy is not available on Nordic Reset or First Tracks.
The meeting and drop-off location is Lillehammer Train Station, which is easy accessible from Oslo Gardermoen by train (direct).
A transfer will be organised to take you to Pellestova Hafjell Hotel.
Details will be confirmed once the trip is booked and guaranteed.
From January to April, Pellestova, experiences classic Norwegian winter conditions. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures that range from about -12°C to -7°C (10°F to 19°F) and frequent snowfall. In February and March, temperatures warm slightly, but average temperatures remain below 0°C (32°F), while April sees temperatures rise slightly with average temperatures between 4.7°C to -3.4°C (39°F to 26°F)
Breakfast is a buffet style, during which you will have the opportunity to make a packed lunch.
Evening meals will be 2 course a la carte and one relaxed pizza meal. Please make us aware of any food alergies when booking so the hotel can be informed. Drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.
All other snacks you might require during the day are a personal purchase.
You should be injury free and have no joint restrictions.
Requires a reasonable base of fitness. Expect 2–4 hours of skiing per day, including some rolling terrain and gentle climbs. Best for active individuals who are comfortable with regular exercise and looking for a steady challenge.
Luggage
We ask that you travel with only 1 piece of hold luggage and 2 pieces of hand luggage, as space in the transfer bus is not unlimited.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing.
Ski equipment
We will supply poles, boots and skis based on your shoe size, height, weight and techncial ability.
Personal equipment that you should bring
Rucksack - 15 to 20 litres with waist and chest strap. This is so you can carry water, snacks and warm and waterproof kit
1 litre water container - be aware that hydration system tubes often freeze in winter
General clothing
Jackets: Waterproof jacket, waistcoat - fleece/wind stopper, duvet jacket (or second warm layer)
Trousers: Waterproof (optional), nordic ski trousers (should be form fitting, lightweight, windproof and warm)
Tops: Thermal top - long sleeves, thin fleece - long sleeves
Ancillaries: Gloves x 2 (one thick and one thin), over-mittens for colder days can be useful, warm hat, head band or scarf/buff, socks - medium thickness
Additional items
Sunscreen, sunglasses, small thermos for hot drinks, head torch and footwear suitable for icy conditions
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’s included
Professionally qualified guides
Accommodation and food
One group transfer to/from the airport
Technical equipment (boots, skis and poles)
Hotel amenities
Janteloppet Race Entry
What’s not included
Flights
Personal insurance
Drinks, snacks and food outside of planned meals
All other transport
Technical equipment (boots, skis and poles) can be arranged
Spa treatments
Single occupancy supplements (refer to Booking Information)
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