Ice, ice baby: seven superb ski stays
Ready to dust off your ski goggles and call one of these seven sensational ski hotels home? Hotel expert Sarah Jappy has a good day on the slopes
01/11/2022Updated 20/02/2025
RIO PALENA LODGE, PATAGONIA, CHILE
Swap the ski lift for a chopper at rugged Rio Palena Lodge and discover the glacial beauty that has earned Patagonia its cult ski-scene status. Rio Palena Lodge belongs to Eleven, an experiential adventure travel group whose stylish, intimate properties occupy remarkable corners of the world. This location is no exception. In an Andean valley peppered with steep descents and jagged glaciers, it offers close to 100 runs and undiscovered areas galore. Luckily, the lodge’s own helicopter and expert mountain guides are on hand to connect you to everything from wide-open bowls to steep chutes across this awe-inspiring region. On the banks of the burbling Rio Palena River, its seven rooms are just as primed for relaxation. Days begin with creative breakfasts rustled up by the private chef, followed by leisurely riverside lunches soundtracked by chirruping birds. After dark, expect decadent dinners and twinkly stargazing.
TEMPERATURE RISING
Warm up with a soak or steam in the lodge’s wood-fired hot tubs and sauna.
WINE & DINE
As the sun sets, sip a robust Chilean red or a zingy Pisco sour on the view-tastic deck. Later on, honour your setting with a Chilean asado: a traditional barbecue paired with fine wines.
HIGH LIFE SAYS
‘Kitted out’ is an understatement. The lodge bristles with fly-fishing gear, float-fishing rafts, jet boats, mountain bikes, SUPs and SUVs.
