Chile is a land of contrasts and offers visitors a variety of experiences throughout the year.
Although it may seem contradictory, one of the best times to ski in Chile is during the summer months of December to March.
The country is home to several world-class ski resorts, many of which are located in the majestic Andes Mountains.
Here are the top five summer ski resorts in Chile that you won’t want to miss.
Portillo Ski Resort
One of the most renowned ski resorts in Chile, located in the Andes Mountains, just two hours from Santiago. It is a stunning destination that offers breathtaking views and a unique skiing experience. Portillo is a world-class ski resort with a long history of providing exceptional service and memorable experiences to skiers from around the globe.
One of the most unique things about Portillo is that it is a ski-in, ski-out resort. This means that you can ski from your doorstep to the lifts without ever having to walk on the snow. The resort has 35 runs of varying difficulties, ranging from beginner to expert, which makes it a perfect destination for skiers of all levels. The resort’s terrain is also a great choice for off-piste skiing, with numerous backcountry options and the opportunity to heli-ski.
In addition to skiing, Portillo offers a range of activities, including snowboarding, ice skating, and snowmobiling. The resort also has a heated outdoor pool with a view of the Andes Mountains, which is a popular spot for guests to relax after a day on the slopes.
The resort has five restaurants, all of which offer delicious and varied cuisine options, from international dishes to traditional Chilean food.
Portillo has a long-standing tradition of excellence in the hospitality industry. The resort has been operating since 1949 and has hosted numerous ski championships and events, including the 1966 Alpine Skiing World Cup and the 2006 South American Ski Championships. The resort’s commitment to providing excellent service and unforgettable experiences is reflected in its long list of satisfied guests, many of whom return year after year.
Overall, Portillo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience skiing in Chile. Its exceptional skiing terrain, unique ski-in, ski-out accessibility, and unparalleled hospitality make it a top choice for skiers from around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert skier, Portillo has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Portillo for an unforgettable skiing adventure.
Valle Nevado Ski Resort
One of the most popular ski resorts in Chile, located in the heart of the Andes Mountains just outside of Santiago. It’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain and a range of runs suitable for all levels, from beginner to expert.
The resort boasts 44 runs, 16 lifts, and a vertical drop of over 3,000 feet, making it one of the largest ski resorts in South America. The snow quality is exceptional, with an average snowfall of 300 inches per year, and the season typically runs from late June to late September.
Valle Nevado is also known for its world-class facilities, including luxury accommodations, fine dining restaurants, and a lively apres-ski scene. The resort offers a range of lodging options, from hotels to condominiums, all with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For those looking to improve their skiing or snowboarding skills, Valle Nevado offers a variety of lessons and clinics, including private and group lessons for adults and children. The resort also has a terrain park and halfpipe for freestyle enthusiasts.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Valle Nevado offers a range of activities, including snowshoeing, heli-skiing, and snowmobiling. The resort also has a spa and fitness center for those looking to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes.
El Colorado Ski Resort
A popular ski resort located in the Andes Mountains of Chile. It is located about 50 kilometers from the capital city of Santiago, making it an accessible destination for locals and tourists alike. The resort has over 1,000 hectares of skiable terrain, ranging from beginner to advanced level runs, making it a great destination for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
One of the unique features of El Colorado is its location in the Andes Mountains, which provides skiers with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. On clear days, visitors can see all the way to Santiago and the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
The resort’s high elevation, ranging from 2,400 to 3,333 meters, ensures good snow conditions throughout the season, which typically runs from June to October.
El Colorado offers a range of services to visitors, including ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and guided tours. The resort has a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Additionally, the resort offers non-skiing activities such as tubing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Nevados de Chillan Ski Resort
A world-renowned ski resort located in the Andes Mountains of Chile. It is known for its vast terrain, natural hot springs, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The resort is situated near the small town of Las Trancas, which is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation in a natural setting.
Nevados de Chillan boasts over 1,000 hectares of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in South America. With over 30 runs, there is something for everyone, from beginner to expert skiers and snowboarders.
The resort has a variety of lifts, including chairlifts and gondolas, which provide access to the diverse terrain.
The ski season at Nevados de Chillan typically runs from late June to early October, with the best snow conditions usually found in July and August.
One of the unique features of Nevados de Chillan is its natural hot springs, which are located at the base of the resort. After a day on the slopes, visitors can relax in the hot springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties.
There are also several spas and wellness centers in the area, offering massages, facials, and other treatments to help guests unwind and rejuvenate.
For those who are not interested in skiing or snowboarding, Nevados de Chillan offers a variety of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. There are also opportunities for hiking and mountain biking in the summer months, when the snow has melted and the landscape is lush and green.
La Parva Ski Resort
Located just an hour’s drive from Santiago, La Parva ski resort is one of Chile’s premier winter destinations. With over 15 lifts and 30 runs, the resort offers something for everyone, from beginner to expert skiers and snowboarders. The resort has a maximum altitude of 3,630 meters, making it one of the highest in the country, and its location in the Andes guarantees some of the best snow conditions in the world.
One of the standout features of La Parva is its terrain parks, which have been designed to challenge even the most experienced riders. The resort has several parks catering to different levels of ability, with features ranging from beginner boxes and rails to massive jumps and halfpipes.
The resort’s expertly groomed trails make for excellent skiing and snowboarding, while its off-piste areas offer some of the best powder runs in the region.
La Parva also offers plenty of options for non-skiers, with activities such as snowshoeing, ice-skating, and tubing available. There are also a variety of restaurants and bars, offering delicious food and drinks with stunning mountain views. Accommodation is available in a range of options, from luxurious apartments and condos to more budget-friendly options.
Other Ski Resorts in Chile
Portillo: Located about two hours from Santiago, Portillo is one of the oldest and most famous ski resorts in South America. It offers a range of skiing terrain, from beginner to expert, and has a reputation for excellent powder skiing.
Valle Nevado: This resort is located in the heart of the Andes Mountains and is the largest ski resort in Chile. It offers over 7,000 acres of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including some of the best off-piste skiing in South America.
El Colorado: El Colorado is a popular ski resort located in the Andes Mountains, about an hour’s drive from Santiago. It is known for its wide variety of terrain, including a large freestyle park, and its proximity to other ski resorts in the area.
Nevados de Chillan: Located in the Bio Bio region of southern Chile, Nevados de Chillan offers skiers and snowboarders over 1,400 acres of skiing terrain and 28 lifts. It is also known for its natural hot springs, making it a great destination for après ski relaxation.
La Parva: La Parva is a high-end ski resort located in the Andes Mountains, about an hour and a half from Santiago. It offers a range of terrain for all levels, including some of the steepest runs in South America, and has a reputation for excellent grooming and snow conditions.
Overall, Chile offers some of the best skiing in South America, with a wide range of terrain and amenities for all types of skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re looking for powder skiing, freestyle parks, or après ski relaxation, Chile’s ski resorts have something to offer.
Ski resorts in Chile offer a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and world-class skiing experiences. From the majestic Andes mountains to the diverse range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, ski resorts in Chile are not just about the sport but also about embracing the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, the ski resorts in Chile promise an unforgettable adventure with their exceptional facilities and picturesque settings.
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