The linked resorts of Valle Nevado, El Colorado and La Parva combine to make the largest ski area in Chile. Located only 35 miles from Santiago, they the also the closest ski area to a capital city anywhere in the world.

The road from Santiago up to the resorts weaves through attractive foot hills and up a long series of steep curvas, or hairpin bends, that are not for the faint hearted. You can feel the affects of the altitude as you climb and by the time you reach the hotel (altitude 3,000 m or 10,000 ft) climbing the few steps out of the lobby is a real challenge! However, acclimisation is quick and by morning you will be raring to explore the large ski area.

All the skiing is above the tree line and from Valle Nevado the lifts carry you to 3,670 metres at the top of Tres Puntas. The Andes Express lift gives you access to the neighbouring resorts of La Parva and El Colorado and plenty of further terrain. There are stunning views of the Andes, including the giant El Plomo (5,430 m), from every run.

Valle Nevado is really the only resort able to accommodate international visitors, which it does very comfortably. The resort is made up of 3 hotels and two apartment buildings perched on a rocky ridge. It is almost all built as one complex which contains the resort's 8 bars and restaurants (some are seasonal).

Sipping a drink whilst watching the amazing sunsets - made spectacular by the sun filtering through the smog that hangs over Santiago - makes you pleased to be in the mountains! and sets the tone for a relaxing end to the day.

Heli-skiing - Valle Nevado is an affordable place to try heli-skiing, which can be arranged on a daily basis from the resort. The helicopter ride above the huge peaks and deep valleys is incredible in itself.