By: Lia Contesso
Submitted: 2011-08-22 09:17:35 | Word Count: 562
The summer holidays have almost come to an end and many are already thinking about the next place they will visit this winter. It is in fact a good moment to start looking around for alternatives, specially because even if beach time is over, it may be a good idea to still keep fit and healthy so as to enjoy at its best the chosen winter destination.
The tourism industry has made a huge effort to make the winter holidays as fun and with as many options as the summer ones. From cultural trips to the most important European capitals to a great variety of winter sports destinations. These last ones seem to be the preferred choice for many people who rarely have the option of enjoying nature during the year, which is why skiing has become the king of the winter holidays.
Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular winter activities among youngsters and adults since it offers the perfect combination of fun, nature and sport. The Dolomites are one the hot spot for Italians wishing to practice this sport, whatever their level of expertise. Beginners can enjoy a nice walk through the breathtaking mountains and for those seeking adventure and more intense exercise, more demanding requiring several hours of walk have been defined.
Cross-country skiing can be divided into three categories: classic cross-country skiing, cross-country skating and off track cross-country skiing. Classic cross-country skiing consists in walking on tracks while the second style adds to the walking some skating through steeper terrain. This style's technique is more similar to ice-skating than skiing since the skis are shorter. Off track cross-country skiing combines several techniques since the paths are not set and skiers may find themselves in different terrains such as deep snow and ice.
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The outings that the tourism entities propose can be adapted to every person. Visitors with little or no experience that want to admire the Dolomites from a different point of view can choose a one or two-hour tour that is easily manageable for any person in good health. Those more accustomed to physical activity can opt for whole-day trips that add up to 4 or 5 hours of walking. For the experienced cross-country skiers, the Dolomites have great off-track guided trips that consist in up to 7 hours of walking in more extreme conditions and on a variety of terrains.
In addition, the town of Cortina d'Ampezzo and its magnificent surroundings offer to every visitor a vast array of leisure options. Shops, bars, clubs and theatres to make the experience a complete success.
For a family vacation or a trip with a group of friends, there's something for everyone. If this year you are spending your winter holidays in a ski resort, ask the tourism office which activities are in program and choose the one that best fits your physical level. Many of the companies that organize these day-trips also have children activities and combine the timetables so that parents and children can meet afterwards.
Start planning for the winter vacations, there are many good offers right now that are going to disappear as we get closer to the winter months!
