Located about 100 miles from Santiago, Portillo is the oldest ski area in Latin America. Its rich history dates back to the early 20th century, when a railroad track was built through the area to join Santiago with Mendoza. As workers spent time on the mountain, snow skiing was both a necessity for getting around, and great recreation. Soon after the railroad was finished, word got out about the great skiing conditions. As the legend has it, the TransAndean Railroad was the first ski lift in Chile.

Portillo, Chile

The resort has a legacy of over 50 years. It continues to attract world class athletes, including many generations of the Olympic stars, ski racers, and snow boarders and skiers from all walks of life.

Portillo is loved by skiers and snowboarders, as it has some of the best powder snow in the world. From racing maniacs, to new snowboarder, Portillo’s Andean terrain will keep you on the slopes!

The fun does not end when the day ends, as Portillo has great restaurants, lounge and a disco.

School
Portillo offers instruction for both skiing and snowboarding. Over 30 professional, full-time, international staff of instructors led by Jesús Puente, a member of the elite Spanish Ski Demonstration Team.

Operation Schedule
2008 - June 21st, October 4th.

Trail Map
http://www.skiportillo.com/html-eng/skiing-3.html

Portillo will delight skiers at all levels of experience. The runs are well groomed, on a daily basis.

  • Beginners- Three runs geared to beginners.
  • Intermediate - Four runs geared toward beginner, intermediate levels.
  • Advanced - Six runs for advanced skiers, including professionals.
  • Expert - Five expert runs, including “Kilometro Lanzado” home to three speed records, and the first place where the 200Km/h barrier was broken.

Lodging:
Portillo is a complete resort close to Santiago. Resort lodging information is available here.

Getting There
Services: Airport shuttle and private transportation service is available.


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By car:Portillo is two hours northeast of Santiago, and east of Los Andes. From Santiago, follow Américo Vespucio towards the north. This will take you down “La Piramide” and past the Cuidad Empresarial. Exit to the “Los Libertadores” highway (just after the entrance to the Mall Plaza Norte). Follow the highway towards the city of Los Andes. At Los Andes, turn right and follow the international route to the east through the mountains towards the city of Mendoza, Argentina. Portillo is approximately 5 km from the Chile / Argentina border.

Website: http://www.skiportillo.com