Other winter sport activities

Last updated at 13:08 29 November 2001


Most ski and snowboard resorts offer a wide range of different activities as well as skiing and snowboarding. Some of the most common include:

Cross-country skiing Instead of skiing down the mountain you effectively walk or glide on skis on flattish marked and maintained tracks, often through woods.

This can be a very peaceful and beautiful experience (but don't underestimate the amount of energy it takes).

Cleared walks Most resorts have marked paths around the mountains that have been made safe for pedestrians.

Tobogganing A popular après-ski activity - especially in Austria and Switzerland - where it is often followed with a fondue and copious amounts of alcohol in a mountain hut, before sliding back down in the dark. There are also some floodlit toboggan runs.

Ice skating Most resorts have an indoor or outdoor rink.

Snowmobiling Effectively a motor bike fitted with tracks - rather than wheels - to grip the snow. Especially popular in North America, but increasingly common in the Alps as well.

Paragliding You are strapped into a harness with a parachute-type sail attached, launch yourself off a mountain and fly through the air before landing in the valley.

Unless you have prior experience (or a death wish) it's best to do this as a 'tandem flight' where you are attached to an instructor who takes the controls, while you just enjoy the views.

Snowshoeing You rent a pair of snowshoes, which have wide 'basket-type' soles so you don't sink into deep snow, and set off to walk where you wish (or join a guided tour).

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