Rising to fame in 1966 for hosting the World Skiing Championships, Portillo Chile has garnered international praise as one of the best ski resorts in South America!
Olympic skiers commonly flock to the steep slopes and high-speed terrain
to practice during the European and North American summer. World-famous
backcountry trails offer many of the most challenging runs on the continent.
Portillo’s reputation as a bona fide training ground for expert skiers is
heightened by its noticeable lack of accommodation options. Visitors will never
be surrounded by more than a few hundred people and this offers a breath of
fresh air for those looking to escape the crowds.
Located 160-kilometers from the bustling capital of Santiago, Portillo
provides a convenient, mountainous escape for international adventurers. Once
you reach the famous bright-yellow Hotel Ski Portillo, you will be surrounded
by an alpine paradise. Best of all, the limited number of guests creates
virtually no wait times on lifts and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Glorious views of the rugged Andes, pristine glacial lakes, world-class ski runs, and all-inclusive amenities make this resort and skiing in Chile a bucket list experience for any winter lover!
Portillo Chile – Attracting the Best of the Best
Ask any of the top
skiers on the circuit where they prefer training for the season and Portillo is
sure to come up! Those legendary runs of the 1966 championships were
responsible for drawing in many of the most talented skiers around the world.
The reversed seasons make mountains in South America, and especially Portillo a prime destination for professional skiers to practice while the Northern Hemisphere is suffering through heat waves. Ski fanatics should keep their eyes peeled during a winter Chilean getaway for the top athletes in the sport.
Heart-Racing Ski Runs
The trails at Portillo are among the most exhilarating or terrifying in South America, depending on your preference. Savvy riders will find plenty of worthy challenges on the marked trails, but the backcountry is what makes skiing in the Andes worthy and fun.
Portillo’s vertical
and yearly snowfall pales in comparison to other famous resorts but it makes up
for it with some of the steepest runs in the world. Super C is a must and is
often considered a right of passage for South American ski aficionados.
Not only will it take
a strenuous hike to reach many of Portillo’s backcountry beauties, a ride on
its unmistakable va et vient (slingshot) lifts is a spectacular experience. Strapping
yourself in and being hoisted up the mountain creates a unique journey along
the ultra-steep slopes.
Intermediate riders can
have a field day at the numerous fun-filled runs inside the gates including the
Lake Run, Toilet Bowl and Garganta. Accessible runs will be harder to come by
for novice skiers and snowboarders, but lessons are offered to learn from a
veteran.
If you are up for a death-defying flight into the Andes, hop aboard a chopper for a breathtaking heli skiing trip.
Admire the Roof of South America
Being surrounded by the Andes Mountains, Portillo offers visitors stunning views of the continent’s tallest peaks. In particular, the summit of Aconcagua dwarfs all others in the southern hemisphere standing at 6,961m.
Alpine lakes like Laguna
del Inca glisten on a clear day and twilight skies are simply out of this
world.
One of the most revitalizing things to do in Portillo around your skiing adventures is soaking in the hot tubs outside the resort and just gazing at majestic landscapes.
Top-Notch Service in Portillo Ski Resort
What Portillo lacks in
number of accommodations and a traditional village base, it makes up for it
with excellent amenities and impeccable customer service. Staff members impress
with their attention to detail and visitors can expect to be pampered 24/7.
Treat yourself to local
gastronomic delights and a variety of delicious Chilean wines inside an opulent
dining area. Then, head to the spa or jacuzzi to have a well-deserved lazy day.
A welcoming, low-key
vibe creates a wonderful place to meet all sorts of interesting people and the
outgoing staff is the cherry on top!
