One Of Chile's Best Ski Resorts Is Situated On A Volcano With Hot Springs And Luxury

A ski resort located in the southern Andes is a smokin' hot spot for skiers and boarders worldwide, literally. Nevados de Chillan Ski Resort (formally Termas de Chillan), or 'Chillan' as the locals call it, sits at the base of Stratovolcano Nevados de Chillan.  Located in central Chile, the resort is well known for its good ski terrain, gorgeous views, natural hot springs, a relaxing spa, casino, and still-smoking volcano. With plenty of annual snowfall, fantastic back-country and tree skiing, and its famous relaxing natural hot springs — it's a great spot for skiers, boarders, and those looking to take a relaxing getaway to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Other winter activities at the resort include snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and one of the coolest parts — skiing down the side of a volcano.

It is also the only ski center in Chile that has a neighboring town — Las Trancas — which provides visitors the chance to explore local restaurants and bars (though you do need your own vehicle to access them). The town also has various ski and snowboard shops that have rental equipment in case you don't want to bring yours along. Aside from being a premiere skiing location, once the snow melts, the resort is a great place to enjoy summer activities. There's ample opportunity for hiking, trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, outdoor yoga sessions, and even zip lining. Whether you're shredding the slopes in winter, exploring the mountains in summer, or enjoying the relaxing thermal hot springs, Nevados de Chillan is a prime destination for fun and wellness. 

There are numerous accommodations for those wanting to spend time at the resort. Guests seeking a more luxurious stay should look into Hotel Nevados de Chillán, which offers ski-in and out access, thermal pools, spa services, and fine dining. Hotel Alto Nevados is also a great option for those looking to enjoy a four-star experience located at the base of the slopes. For something more mid-range, try Roca Negra Lodge & Spa (offering cozy wooden cabins, outdoor hot tubs, and a restaurant), or MI Lodge and Spa, both located in Las Trancas. Both resorts also offer an array of spa treatments such as massages, body treatments, and hydrotherapy. For those looking for a more budget-friendly (but just as nice) option, try Cabana Los Hualles, Refugio Ecobox Andino, or Hostal Chil'in, all located in the Las Trancas area. 

For those more interested in a day spent in one of Nevados de Chillans famous natural hot springs, there are a few options to choose from. Termas de Chillan (the main hot springs featuring multiple outdoor pools), Aguas Calientes (a smaller, more secluded hot spring), and Termas Valle Hermoso (a beautiful hot spring complex surrounded by lush forests offering public and private thermal baths) are all fabulous places to spend the day soaking in luxury.

The best times to visit the resort are mid-July onward, with August being one of the best months for skiing. Early to mid-September usually sees a good blend of winter storms and sunny days, and the resort sometimes stays open into October depending on conditions. According to PowderQuest, "The real reason to visit Nevados de Chillan is the back-country touring access and cat ski options to the peaks of Volcano Chillan and an area known as Los Nevados. You can explore some of the best off-piste adventures in South America, including Shangri-La, and the Pirrigallo chutes. Hiking and touring in the back-country gives you access to some of the longest descents and better terrain in the Andes including a back-country playground that would take a full season to explore."

Nevado de Chillan is located about 300 miles south of Santiago and 51 miles east of Chillan. The nearest airport is Concepcion (CCP-Carriel Sur), a 2.5-hour drive from the town of Las Trancas. If you prefer to fly into Santiago and travel from there, there are a few options. Visitors can take the bus from Santiago, the Eme Buses depart daily from Santiago Terminal Sur to Chillan, and the ride takes about 6 hours. Once in Chillan, you make a connection to Terminal La Merced (bus station) located in Downtown Chillan and take a local bus (a Rem Bus) to Las Trancas. Visitors can also take a train from Santiago to Chillan, and then a bus, taxi, or shuttle to the resort. The train still takes about 5 hours, but features more comfort than the bus. The train departs from the Estacion Central in Santiago, and tickets can be purchased on-site or online.