Whether you're a free rider or looking for a family getaway, we've rounded up the top ski resorts below the Equator! Keep reading to find out where you should be heading for a snowy holiday to remember.
Perisher, Australia
Nestled within the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, the Perisher slopes are some of the most expansive and spectacular ski terrain to experience down under. This bucket-list destination stretches across a colossal 3,076 acres and is the largest resort in the Southern Hemisphere, with plenty of snow to carve and activities to enjoy.
Although the name sounds misleading, Perisher provides plenty of varied terrains for you to tackle on your Aussie alpine adventures ranging from beginner to advanced. Plus, it wouldn’t be a proper holiday destination if you couldn’t kick your feet up and take a break from the action. Conveniently, Perisher offers over 30 restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.
Portillo, Chile
This Chilean resort is an icon in the ski world, setting the standard for classic ski experiences with more than 70 years of history and family-owned hospitality. Set amongst the spectacular Andes mountains boasting terrifyingly high terrain, staggeringly beautiful views and a bright yellow resort building that looks like it's been lost in time, it's a ski experience unlike any other.
With ski-in/ski-out lodging, heated swimming pools, restaurants, bars, gyms and ski slopes for all kinds from beginners to back-country, Portillo has it all. The resort accommodates a maximum of 450 guests a week, eliminating crowds and lift lines and affording guests the unique sensation of skiing on their own. So if it's a quintessential ski experience you're after, head to the Chilean Andes and you won't be disappointed.
Las Lenãs, Argentina
The Las Lenãs ski resort is one of the top ski destinations in Latin America, with incredible mountain views and ski runs that will have you extending your trip to the end of the snow season. This vibrant destination is renowned for its high peaks and steep slopes and has become a serious attraction for pro-skiers from all around the globe to tackle some of the more gnarly terrains.
But have no fear, Las Lenãs caters to all adventure levels with powdery white terrain perfect for kids, beginners and snow-angel enthusiasts alike. Located in the southern part of the Mendoza province in Argentina, Lenãs is nestled on the eastern side of the Andes Mountains. The best time to visit is during peak season from June through to September, offering an incredible skiing experience that will chair-lift you to the top of the world!
The Remarkables, New Zealand
A scenic 40-minute drive from central Queenstown and along New Zealand's Snow Highway lies The Remarkables ski field. The versatile terrain and north-facing sunny slopes offer some of the best skiing in New Zealand, not to mention some of the best alpine views in the world being situated at the edge of Lake Wakatipu. With over 380 hectares of terrain to explore and modern facilities with cafes, restaurants and ice bars, you're free to explore the mountain in your own style at your own pace.
There's something for everyone with plenty of space for beginners, challenging runs for the experts and dedicated areas for freestyle skiing, including up to seven terrain parks and the Southern Hemisphere's only 'Burton Stash', a signature terrain park packed with natural obstacles. The season runs from June through to October so strap into your snow shoes, you're not going to want to miss this one!
Inspired to hit the slopes? To book your ultimate ski adventure, contact your local
Travellers Choice agent!
