As summer draws near in the northern hemisphere, winter sports enthusiasts naturally turn their attention south, in search of fresh alpine experiences. Among Argentina’s emerging ski destinations, Cerro Perito Moreno stands out for offering one of the longest seasons in South America — set this year from 28 June to 12 October.
This serene and expansive resort, nestled deep in the Patagonian Andes, promises far more than exceptional snow. From the summit, skiers are greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, while pristine lenga and ñire forests dusted in white create an enchanting backdrop. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent value, Cerro Perito Moreno is an ideal choice for a family holiday or an authentic escape into nature.
Access is simple and scenic: visitors can fly into either Bariloche or Esquel airports, continuing by car along the legendary Route 40 — a journey of approximately 90 minutes. The nearest town is El Bolsón, a charming mountain village on the border of the Río Negro and Chubut provinces, renowned for its craft markets and relaxed alpine spirit.
The resort itself ranges from a base altitude of 915 metres to a summit of 2,294 metres, with notable recent infrastructure investments. This year sees the addition of a new drag lift and a dedicated beginner slope, expanding the lift network to 11 and offering 17 marked runs, plus extensive off-piste terrain — totalling over 25 kilometres of skiable area.
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Accommodation options at the foot of the slopes continue to grow. The Après Ski Hotel, inaugurated in 2024, has extended its capacity to 70 beds, offering comfortable rooms for two to six guests, with direct slope access and ski-room service.
Meanwhile, the historic Refugio Albert Rudolph, operated by the Club Andino Piltriquitrón (CAP), has undergone a thoughtful refurbishment, enhancing its communal spaces and dormitory-style rooms, perfect for families or groups of friends.
Culinary offerings on the mountain have also been elevated: two of the resort’s five dining venues — La Base Café (900 metres) and A-Gusto Punto Nieve (1,700 metres) — have doubled their capacity, ensuring more guests can enjoy the region’s rustic, high-quality mountain cuisine.
At 1,700 metres, the resort’s Ski and Snowboard School offers both private and group lessons, as well as a dedicated Snow Garden for young children. Guests can enjoy gentle snowshoe walks, tobogganing, or venture onto the Plateau’s untouched slopes for panoramic vistas and guided off-piste adventures.
For freestyle enthusiasts, the Snowpark provides a selection of modules and lines catering to all skill levels — from beginners to professionals — alongside expert coaching, live DJ sets, and seasonal events.
A calendar of exclusive winter events brings further appeal. The celebrated Torchlight Descent takes place in late July, while the slopes will host FIS-sanctioned alpine ski competitions from 31 July to 1 August, offering spectators a chance to watch elite athletes in action.
Adding a touch of playful excitement, a Rugby Xtreme match — a unique snow rugby tournament — is scheduled for 2 August, followed by the festive Children’s Day celebration on the long weekend of 17 August, complete with costume contests, gifts, and family entertainment.
In September, the resort welcomes a second FIS alpine skiing event (5–7 September) and the thrilling National Freeride Championship for ski and snowboard disciplines (12–15 September) — a must for lovers of adventure and freeride culture.
With its exceptional season length, recent investment in facilities, and wide array of family-friendly activities and competitions, Cerro Perito Moreno is fast becoming a sought-after winter address in the Southern Hemisphere. Offering authentic charm, value, and unforgettable natural beauty, it is a destination set to delight discerning travellers in search of an alternative to the Alps — far from the crowds, yet rich in alpine spirit.
