The night cross-country skiing race on the Alpe di Siusi between January and February is a highlight of the winter sports calendar
Image gallery: South Tyrol Moonlight Classic
It is during the full moon in January or February that Europe's largest high alpine pasture, the Alpe di Siusi, becomes a meeting point for the international cross-country skiing elite. The South Tyrol Moonlight Classic, one of the most thrilling cross-country skiing competitions in the region, takes place then. Participants in the Moonlight Classic can use the Alpe di Siusi cable car free of charge - it remains in operation on this day from 8 am till 1 at night.
Spectators have free access from 6 pm onwards. The race itself begins with a mass start in Compaccio, where the finish line is also located. The 15 or 30 kilometres are skied exclusively in the classic diagonal style - the long route is classified as very demanding, the short route as easy.
Shortly after the mass start, the "Just for Fun" event follows, a five-kilometre race for beginners and hobby skiers. The Moonlight Classic concludes with a prize-giving ceremony in the marquee, a raffle and the popular after-party. By the way: The cross-country ski trails on the Alpe di Siusi stretch out before the majestic backdrop of the Sassolungo, Sasso Piatto and Sciliar.
