Time-to-travel

It's time to play in the snow in Chile

How about a trip that combines the capital of the country, Santiago, and the largest ski resort in South America, Valle Nevado?

By Denise Bobadilha

As close as a good beach resort in the Brazilian Northeast, Chile is a surprising neighbor to explore with the family. Yes, the land that attracts adults with its wines and landscapes of mountains, desert, and sea is also an excellent choice for children, especially in winter. After all, what child doesn’t dream of playing in the snow and building a snowman? A trip that combines the country’s capital, Santiago, and the largest ski resort in South America, Valle Nevado, will bring cultural, sports, gastronomic, and even meteorological experiences for the whole family.

Let’s start with Santiago. The capital is flat and very well-served by public transportation, making it easy to access the attractions. A classic activity is to ride the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal. The top of the hill offers a panoramic view of the city and the Andes Mountains; then, you can descend either by funicular or cable car to Parque Metropolitano. Both alternatives already provide plenty of fun for everyone, but you can go further and reserve an afternoon to enjoy the MIM Interactive Museum Mirador, a very interesting and interactive science museum in the style of Catavento in São Paulo. Alternatively, you can have fun at Parque Bicentenario, a more central outdoor park with cool playgrounds, bike rentals, the possibility of having a picnic on the lawn, or trying the gourmet restaurant Mestizo.

The excursions beyond the Chilean capital are worth the trip all year round, but in winter, they have an unparalleled attraction: snow in the mountains. For many, this simply translates to skiing and snowboarding. Those who have never skied may find the sport difficult or even overrated, but the fact is that gliding down the snow on skis guarantees unforgettable moments, beautiful photos, and good laughs. In Valle Nevado, there are lessons for everyone, including the very young, who do very well, by the way.

Before stepping on the snow, however, it is necessary to have some basic instructions about Valle Nevado. The resort is a snow resort with three different hotels, located at an altitude of 3,200 meters. It is only 40 kilometers from Santiago, but don’t be fooled: the road is difficult and very winding, with over 70 curves (be mindful of children getting motion sick!). It is worth hiring a specialized transfer service. Rental cars often require tire chains to climb on slippery snow. Another precaution before indulging in the snow is to buy thermal clothing, hats, and waterproof gloves, ensuring the right size. Ski boots, jackets, waterproof pants, and helmets can be rented in Valle Nevado itself or at Plaza la Gondola, one stop before the resort. If the child is very young and to ensure the right-sized clothing, it is worth renting the clothes before heading up the mountain at some stores along the way, on the outskirts of the capital.

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The 40 slopes of Valle Nevado add up to about 40 km in length and are located close to the hotels. The most luxurious of the three, Hotel Valle Nevado, is ski in/out, which means you can ski directly from the hotel to the slopes. Hotel Puerta del Sol has the largest entertainment complex, and Três Puntas is ideal for those traveling in larger groups, with connecting rooms. However, everyone can enjoy the restaurants in the complex and common areas, regardless of the hotel.

Next to the ski slopes are the Kids Zones, areas where little ones can draw, paint, and make snowmen between one ski attempt and another. Children as young as 4 years old can take ski lessons and enjoy a fun Magic Carpet, a conveyor belt to go up the slope. There is also a cable car for adults to access the slopes, where they can also enjoy the spa, pub, heated pools, and outdoor jacuzzi for moments beyond the snow. Neither children nor adults will be bothered by the cold. The attractions are close together, many connected by enclosed corridors, and there are heaters, fireplaces, and warm spots everywhere, including hot chocolates, Italian and mountain cuisine, and, of course, wines.

If there is any energy left, children have entertainers available at the hotel with activities that continue into the night. No matter how tired you are, don’t miss the chance to appreciate the sunset over the snowy mountains. The light that transitions from yellow to violet, the cold air, the smiles, and the rosy cheeks from days of wind and snow are images that will be cherished in the family’s memories for a long time.