Two seasons of ski resort running - Nendaz, Switzerland
European ski resort areas often have excellent running tracks available when not covered in snow. One example of excellent runs can be found in Nendaz, Switzerland. Nendaz is a quick cab ride from Sion, Switzerland which itself can be reached in about two hours by train from Geneva, Switzerland. The local tourism website has an overview and links to running programs in the area.
What I like most about the area is being able to run on the trails and also on the ski slopes. I took my time running the trails to ascend to a peak with an amazing view of the valley and mountains in the distance. From the peak, I took a direct line back to the start that involved lots of downhill running on the steep slopes. For this kind of running, you need to ensure you are getting in plenty of elevation change in your training runs. Biking or other cross-training to maintain strength in your quadriceps also helps.
I was fortunate to visit the Nendaz area to run and ski. On the Ski trip I was still able to get in a lunch run on the running tracks.
Nearly every ski resort in Switzerland has running tracks you can link together for an ultrarun. These resorts are easily accessible via train from the major cities. If you find yourself in Switzerland, plan some extra time to have your own ultrarrunning destination trip.
