You may have come across the term Telemarking in our Ski Travel Guide. Telemarking is a mix of Alpine (downhill) skiing and Nordic skiing, so you get the best of both worlds. The sport originated in Norway, in the Telemark region, hence the name.
Telemark skiers traverse diverse backcountry terrain (flat, bumpy, and mountainous), using large strides and lunges to move forward and Alpine skiing technique for downward slopes. Telemark skiers need a good amount of strength and muscular endurance to master all the different techniques that telemarking involves.
A Brief History of Telemarking
Telemark is the domain of advanced athletes, known for its precision and efficiency. Telemark skiers privilege technique over speed, allows them to take their time and enjoy their surrounding countryside. Long treks mean time and admire breath taking landscapes.
Telemark skiing is one of the oldest Nordic skiing disciplines still practiced today, and it is an ancestor of modern Alpine (downhill) skiing. Norwegian carpenter Sondre Norheim is credited with inventing Telemark skiing in 1868, as a means of facilitating cross country treks. Today, it’s best suited to advanced skiers who have the physical endurance long treks and a mix of Alpine and Nordic routes.
Telemark has recently entered the realm of competitive skiing. The first Telemark skiing World Championships were held in 2005. After a push from advocates and an uptake in interest, as of this writing, it’s set to enter the Winter Olympics in 2022. Professionals race, but amateurs can take their time and enjoy the scenery!
Both amateurs and pros enjoy the discipline because it offers them freedom of movement and multiple styles and techniques to choose from. It has thus become more and more popular in ski areas in recent years. Although Telemark can be practiced by skiers of different levels, it's best to have some basic knowledge of Alpine and Nordic skiing before diving in. If you’re ready to get started, read on!
What Gear Do I Need to Get Started?
Due to the difficultly of the sport, it’s essential to be well-equipped and mindful of weather conditions. There are ski boots, skis, and ski poles specifically designed for the needs for Telemark skiers. You'll be taking on the backcountry, so it's important to be prepared! Let’s have a look at what to keep in mind when selecting your equipment.
Ski boots
Take the time to find a model that works for you. Ski boots have either a duckbill (a flat part of the boot that juts out a bit further than the toe) or an NTN (a duckbill plus a second heel) system so that they can be properly fastened to your skis. NTN, or the New Telemark Norm, has become the standard.
Ski boots themselves should be supple enough to give you freedom of movement—your feet need a bit more freedom than in Alpine skiing. A leather exterior is recommended, as it is both strong, flexible, and watertight. As in other types of Nordic skiing, the heel detaches to make uphill climbs more manageable.
Skis
There are more robust models specially designed for Telemark skiing—after all, you will be dealing with all different kinds of terrain. The heels on Telemark boots detach from the skis, so appropriate bindings are necessary. Certain models allow you to click the heel back in at your convenience, and others don’t. It comes down to personal preference—whether you prefer to click the heel back in for downward slopes, turns, etc. or prefer to keep it free.
Privilege lighter, shorter skis if possible. You’ll be bending your knees deeply and moving around more than you would on alpine skis. Lighter and shorter means easier to lift and manoeuvre.
Ski Poles
In the old days, skiers often grabbed a spruce branch and used it as a single ski pole. Today’s skiers are probably looking for something a bit more sophisticated (although the one-pole method stills exists!). Using two poles helps with momentum.
Alpine ski poles can be used in a pinch, but it’s best to opt for a shorter model designed especially for Telemark skiers, to match the shorter length of your skis. The length should, as always, be chosen depending on your height.
If you regularly do both Alpine and Telemark skiing, think about investing in adjustable poles.
Where can I go Telemark Skiing in France?
There are lots of great places to go Telemark skiing in the Hexagon. From Val d’Isère to La Plagne to La Rosière: The French Alps offer plenty of opportunities to take up this unique practice. If you can imagine yourself amongst the spruce trees, enjoying miles of unspoilt natural landscapes at your own pace, check out our choice destinations below.
Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère is well-known for its stunning location and its wide range of accommodations and services. At 1850m above sea level, the season starts early, and snow is pretty much guaranteed year-round, even in the summer. Terrain is perfect for telemarking—varied and expansive, including challenging steep patches and smooth runs. Both intermediate and advanced skiers will find the trails of their dreams.
Tignes
The snow-capped mountains and vast expanses of Tignes are another perfect backdrop for your Telemarking holiday. Tignes is known for being more affordable than Val d’Isère: good news for the skier on a budget! Tignes has something for everyone. Even beginner Telemark skiers will find the perfect trail. Strikingly beautiful landscapes await you!
La Plagne
La Plagne has a reputation as one of the most beautiful ski areas in France. With most accommodation options right next to the slopes, you won’t have to worry about dragging your skis up to the lift, just clip your boots in and go! La Plagne is part of Paradiski, which includes four different ski areas, so there is plenty of diverse terrain to explore.
Val Thorens
At 2300m above sea level, Val Thorens is the highest ski town in Europe. With some of the highest skiable areas in the Alps, you’re guaranteed a white winter wonderland in Val Thorens. Known for everything off the beaten track (snowboarding, mono-skiing, Telemark), Val Thorens is the perfect destination.
La Rosière
For a bit of international flair, check out La Rosière, on the French-Italian border. Both Italy and the French train station of Bourg Saint Maurice at are your doorstep! La Rosière is perfect for those interested in a more traditional Alpine village feel. Chalets abound, and the crowds stick to the larger ski areas. But you’re just a stone’s throw away from Val d’Isère and Les Arcs, so there’s plenty of diverse terrain perfect for telemarking.
