Chapelco, a medium-sized ski resort located near San Martin de los Andes, is a favored destination in the Patagonia region of Argentina. It attracts a significant number of visitors during the peak seasons, and its location offers stunning panoramic views. Despite its popularity, however, some visitors have had concerns about the resort's management and infrastructure.
Parking, for instance, can be a challenge at Chapelco as there are no designated parking lots nearby. As a result, visitors often find themselves walking for about 15 minutes with their ski equipment, a task that can be strenuous and uncomfortable. The resort's ski gondola has been reported to occasionally stop during the ride, forcing riders to wait under the sun.
Moreover, some visitors have noted that the resort can get crowded, affecting the overall skiing experience. Concerns have also been raised about the resort's maintenance standards, with a few incidents of ski equipment breaking due to the ski lifts being too close to the ground. Furthermore, the lack of lockers or secure spaces for personal belongings has been mentioned, as visitors have to carry their belongings with them on the slopes.
On a positive note, Chapelco is known for its respectable amount of lifts and runs. It offers a good mix of trails for beginners while still providing more challenging runs for experienced skiers. Areas like Pradera del Puma are particularly popular for their views and challenging terrain. Additionally, the resort has been praised for its snowpark area, which is considered one of the best in the region.
In terms of non-skiing activities, Chapelco offers a variety of fun options such as mountain biking, horseback riding, zip lines, and archery during the summer, making it a destination worth visiting all year round. Despite the potential cold weather, many visitors find these activities enjoyable and the overall experience rewarding.
In conclusion, while Chapelco Ski Resort has had some criticisms regarding its infrastructure and services, it continues to draw crowds due to its diverse range of slopes, variety of activities, and beautiful location. With some improvements, it has the potential to be one of the top ski resorts in South America.






