Cross-country Skiing in the Val di Fassa

The Val di Fassa has a series of specially prepared slopes and circuits for cross-country skiing

The first word that springs to mind when talking about cross-country skiing is “Marcialonga”. This “Gran Fondo” cross-country competition – now at its 31st edition – crosses the valleys of Fassa and Fiemme to cover a total of around 70 km. It takes place on the last Sunday of January in what is usually the coldest period of the year. This is the most important, spectacular competition in the Alps and it can boast more than 5000 competitors from both Italy and abroad. The race starts in Moena (from the flat on the left as you enter the town) and continues in the direction of Canazei; once in Canazei it turns back to cross the Val di Fassa once more until it returns to Moena. From Moena, it enters the Val di Fiemme crossing the entire valley as far as the finish, which is in Cavalese. Thus in the Val di Fassa it is also possible to try out a good part of this famous route throughout the long winter season (and don’t forget that the Marcialonga route continues through the entire Val di Fiemme).

Other routes and circuits, which differ in terms of drop and length, are also available to enthusiasts of this sport. In particular, we would like to mention the Centro Fondo di Alochet, which also has changing rooms and showers, in the vicinity of the San Pellegrino Pass, the Ciancoal circuit at Pozza di Fassa, and other routes, which are to be found throughout the upper valley as far as Pian Trevisan in the direction of the Fedaia Pass. The high circuits of Costalunga/Carezza and Ciampac are also spectacular. In total, there are around 50 km of carefully prepared circuits, crossing fairytale scenery through silent, snow-covered woods.