Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort
San Martin de los Andes, Neuquén
Every June when snow falls on the hills of San Martin de los Andes, skiers and snowboards from around the globe journey to Patagonia for the chance to ski at Chapelco. This small resort receives more snow than many surrounding resorts and offers some of the best tree skiing anywhere in Argentine Patagonia.
The basics
While smaller than Catedral in neighboring Bariloches, Cerro Chapelco offers exceptional skiing in a relaxed setting. Chapelco’s base is higher than Catedral at around 4,100 feet (1,250 meters)—it tops out at 6,463 feet (1,970 meters) for 2,363 feet (720 meters) of vertical. It offers 28 different runs from black diamond to beginner and has gondola lifts and carpets. In summer, the resort turns to mountain biking and hiking.
Things to know before you go
- Cerro Chapelco is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- The Cerro Chapelco resort offers ski lessons from English-speaking instructors at its ski school.
- Remember to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be intense, even in winter.
How to get there
Cerro Chapelco is located 12 miles (19 kilometers) from San Martin de los Andes and is three hours north of Bariloches. Snow chains aren’t typically required, even in winter. The best way to get there if you don’t have a car is by using a shuttle service or bus from town.
When to get there
On average, the ski season at Cerro Chapelco runs from the end of June through Sep. The gondola stays open throughout the summer for hikers and mountain bikers.
San Martín de Los Andes
One of the major draws of Cerro Chapelco is the nearby town of San Martín de Los Andes, a charming village known for its chocolate shops, steak restaurants, and Andean alpine architecture.
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