Exodus Does Winter Adventures

What is cross-country skiing?

Classic: The majority of our cross-country skiing tours follow the classic technique. In prepared tracks, the movement is similar to walking with a gliding action involving a more pronounced back and forth motion of the arms. Wax or grip under the ski holds it to the snow when a skier’s weight is on it, helping to tackle steeper gradients with ease and glide along flatter terrain. The classic technique can be mastered with ease, and once stopping via the snowplough manoeuvre has been grasped, undulating slopes become stress-free. The classic technique can also be taken off-track, offering adventure and exploration away from the pre-cut trail.

Skate: The movement for skate style is similar to ice skating or rollerblading. Skate skis are lightweight and shorter than classic skis, with increased ankle support provided in the boots. More physically demanding than classic style, once mastered most skiers find they can pick up speed and travel greater distances at a faster pace than those on classic skis. To join a skating holiday it is essential to know how to snowplough and to have good balance and fitness.

Where can I see the Northern Lights?

Head to the Nordic Arctic: It’s the best place to view the Northern Lights. While it’s impossible to guarantee a sighting, heading out under a cloudless sky as far from sources of light as possible will maximise your chances. This is why Exodus Northern Lights holidays take you to the more remote locations. Join us in a frozen wilderness for your best chance to witness the greatest light show on Earth. We have trips to Finland, Norway and Sweden, as well as Greenland. 

Photographing them can be tricky: If all you have is a small point-and-shoot camera, the best photos you’ll get will be the dark of the night sky with an extremely faint green glow on the horizon. For that National Geographic-esque shot to boast about when you return from your Northern Lights holiday, you’ll need a good-quality digital SLR, preferably with a wide-angle lens. A sturdy tripod and a remote shutter release are essential due to the long exposure time required.