As summer reaches its peak, training camps are in full swing for professional skiers and ambitious recreational athletes alike. The off-season is a crucial period for building endurance, testing equipment, and strengthening team cohesion, and few things beat a well-planned training camp in the right location.

It’s no coincidence that top coaches often say, “Skiers are made in the summer.” These months offer the time and mental space to focus on quality sessions, long workouts, and recovery—ideally in inspiring places with favorable conditions. Whether you’re a Pro Team athlete, national team skier, or a passionate recreational athlete, the right setting can make all the difference.

Here, ProXCskiing.com highlights five standout destinations for your next summer training camp. Some are already favorites among our stars, while others might offer a refreshing change from the usual routes.

Also Read: July training can make or break your ski season

1. Costa de Almería, Spain – Sunny skies, quiet roads, and serious climbs

Often overlooked by the Nordic skiing community, Costa de Almería has quietly become a hidden gem for endurance athletes. With consistent year-round temperatures between 16°C and 22°C, this Spanish coastal region offers ideal conditions for extended periods on the road, except during the peak midday heat in July and August, when temperatures may exceed 30°C.

The area boasts excellent roads for roller skiing, with low traffic, and is complemented by challenging mountain climbs, such as the ascent to Velefique. The varied terrain allows for both flat endurance sessions and hilly intervals. Add in the Mediterranean beaches, quality cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere, and you’ve got a perfect spot for training with a vacation feel.

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2. Rieti – Amatrice, Italy – A stage for roller skiing and high-altitude efforts

The Lazio region is an area well worth exploring. Known as “Rome’s mountain,” this lesser-known training location offers rugged terrain with peaks above 2,000 meters, making it ideal for athletes seeking altitude adaptation.

The well-paved mountain roads are perfect for long uphill roller ski or bike sessions, and the views serve as a powerful motivator on challenging days. While not as famous as the Seiser Alm or Livigno, Rieti–Amatrice is gaining visibility and offers a unique combination of challenging training and Italian charm, with plenty of pasta and scenery to help refuel.

Also Read: Why proper breathing matters more than you think for endurance performance

3. Stelvio Pass, Italy – The ultimate test of strength and mindset

Few roads in Europe demand as much respect as the legendary Stelvio Pass. Stretching above 2,500 meters and featuring gradients that exceed 20%, this iconic climb has earned its place in cycling history—and it’s now attracting elite roller skiers seeking the next level.

If you’re looking for a mental and physical breakthrough, Stelvio delivers. Athletes often use a support car to shuttle to the base before beginning the long ascent on roller skis. It’s a punishing session, but one that builds both confidence and stamina. Be warned: this is not for beginners, but it’s a bucket-list challenge for serious skiers.

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4. Mallorca, Spain – World-class training meets Mediterranean comfort

A well-known playground for endurance athletes, Mallorca has become a regular destination for World Cup and Ski Classics Pro Teams. With its year-round mild weather, bike-friendly roads, and diverse terrain, the island strikes a balance between performance training and vacation vibes.

Cap de Formentor is one of the most iconic routes on the island, offering breathtaking views and car-free hours (10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during summer) that make it a paradise for roller skiers and cyclists alike. The diversity of towns, beaches, and cultural attractions also makes Mallorca a top choice for teams bringing family or planning longer stays.

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5. Seiser Alm / Alpe di Siusi, Italy – The high-altitude home of champions

Few places carry more prestige in the endurance world than Seiser Alm. At over 1,800 meters altitude, this South Tyrolean plateau offers pristine trails, well-maintained roads, and panoramic views that have attracted some of the sport’s greatest names—including Marit Bjørgen, Therese Johaug, and Petter Northug.

The high-altitude environment is ideal for boosting red blood cell production and endurance capacity. Whether it’s roller skiing from Kastelruth to Seis or running on alpine trails with hut stops along the way, Seiser Alm offers a comprehensive training setting for both elite and recreational skiers.

Read More: Are fitness tests worth it for recreational skiers?

Choosing the right camp for your goals

All five locations combine scenic beauty with high-performance potential, catering to both long-distance specialists and traditional cross-country skiers. From the quiet roads of Spain to the peaks of the Italian Alps, these training destinations provide the conditions—and the motivation—needed to prepare for the winter season ahead.

Whether you’re looking for team bonding, solo focus, or a mix of training and recovery with family and friends, the right location can elevate your summer preparation. As many athletes have already shown this summer on social media, the off-season is not the time to rest—it’s the time to build.

Also Read – Cycling for skiers: A valuable tool for summer training

This article was first published on ProXCskiing.com on 04.06.2022 and updated today.

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