Chapelco Ski Resort is a pretty haven of snowy slopes with views of forests, a vast blue-green lake and a volcano. The resort has many restaurants serving Patagonian cuisine, traditional Argentine dishes, fast food and fine wines. Marvel at the stunning Patagonian terrain from the chairlifts that transport you high over the mountain.
About 345 acres (140 hectares) of ski slopes make up the resort. Beginners can take lessons and glide slowly along the flat surfaces of the easier slopes, while advanced skiers zoom down the steeper gradients and try freestyling at the terrain park. Ski between the mossy drapes of the lenga trees. Go off-piste to find intriguing caves and rock formations.
Rent equipment including skis, snowboards and accessories from the resort. Drop young kids off at the childcare centre, while you climb the mountain. Get behind the wheel of a snowmobile. Go on a dog-sled ride in the snow and trek through the picturesque hills and forests of the mountain with your family or friends. Several cafés serve hot chocolate or coffee, which is ideal after a long day on the cold snow.
Visit the nearby city of San Martín de los Andes, which has the quaint charm of Swiss Alpine villages. See its old-world timber architecture, arts and crafts shops and chocolate shops.
Many tour operators include this resort and transportation to nearby ski centers in their package deals.
Chapelco Ski Resort is on the mountain of the same name, just east of Lake Lacar in the Neuquén Province. San Martín de los Andes is 12 miles (19 kilometres) west of the mountain peak. The trip via shuttle bus or car should take about 20 minutes. The city of San Carlos de Bariloche, which is a 3-hour drive from the ski resort, has asmall airport connecting to Buenos Aires.
