Posted by Garrott Kuzzy, Lumi Experiences on Feb 20th 2026
Worldloppet Excitement, From Tartu to Hayward
Guests on Lumi’s recent trips in Italy, Finland & Estonia are wrapping up their experiences after spending time exploring trails and cultures in new places with friends and family. From the scenic landscapes of Passo Lavazé to the winter-loving communities in Estonia, guests were never far from places where skiing isn’t just a hobby – it’s a way of life. Read on for a recap of this year’s Tartu Worldloppet and the conclusion of our Finlandia & Tartu trip, as well as a generous helping of memorable views from the trails in the Italian Alps.
(left) Fresh snow and crisp temperatures combine for beautiful skiing in Estonia (right)Volunteers work to keep the blueberry soup warm at the Tartu Ski Marathon.
The Winter Wonderland of Tartu
After skiing the beautiful trails in and around Lahti and participating in a chilly Finlandia-Hiihto, guests on Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu trip traveled by ferry across the Baltic Sea to begin the second half of their trip in Estonia. Upon their arrival they explored the Song Festival grounds in Tallinn, where tens of thousands of Estonians came together to sing for their independence from Soviet Russia. Although the grounds are quiet during the winter, the amphitheater carries a heavy weight due to its importance in Estonia’s long history. Trip leader Gerda, a dancer at the Song Festival, even brought some friends to teach the Lumi group some traditional Estonian dances. The group also visited the Estonian Olympic Museum in Tartu to learn about the country’s outsize impact on many winter sports before taking to the trails. Fresh snow clinging to the trees and frosty temperatures made for fast trails and enchanting scenery.
(left) Warming up after a successful Tartu Worldloppet at the Vanemuine Theatre, Estonia's oldest theater.
The trip concluded with the group’s second Worldloppet event in just over a week: the Tartu Ski Marathon. Aid station volunteers kept the blueberry soup warm for skiers as they made their way around the course, providing welcome relief from chilly temperatures. Fortunately, Lumi skiers were well prepared for the challenge, with a few even making it on the local news after completing their race. These Worldloppet stamps and medals were well earned. Congrats!
The Beauty of the Italian Alps
Meanwhile back in the Italian Alps, Lumi guests took in the scenery while skiing at Passo Lavazé. The trails at this high mountain pass are a favorite for many guests on Lumi’s Dolomitenlauf & Marcialonga and Marcialonga & König Ludwig Lauf trips, and it’s easy to see why. Abundant mid-season snow and expert grooming made for buttery smooth trails that were thoroughly enjoyed by classic and skate skiers alike. The surrounding mountains and snow-covered farmland only enhanced the experience.
(left) The skiing at Passo Lavazé is hard to beat (right) Can you believe these views!
Birkie Fever is Contagious
As skiers gear up for their annual pilgrimage to the northwoods of Wisconsin for this year’s American Birkie, we can’t help but reflect on the dedication and love skiers have for getting out on the trails in their communities. From the forests around Tartu to the windswept landscapes of Norway, along with stops in Cavalese, Obertilliach, and Les Rousses, we’re thrilled to meet people from around the world who appreciate winter and want to celebrate it on skis. We wish everyone good luck at this weekend’s Birkie and can’t wait to see you on the trail again soon. If you’d like to travel with Lumi in 2027, reach out to see an itinerary and sign up by March 31 to receive the $300/person early booking discount.
Garrott Kuzzy
Founder & Olympian