As above really, looking to drive to keep costs down, and probably go self catering (recommendations welcome). Have looked at the French Jura, Harz mountains and the Vosges so far. I’m keen to avoid the big alpine resorts and go somewhere more rural if possible, but willing to look at bigger resorts if that’s the easiest way to do it?

You could probably drive to Gatwick from Calais and fly somewhere?

My only XC ski/telemark friend does most of hers from huts in Scandanavia, they normally all end up really pissed and getting friendly apparently…