Las Lenas, Argentina
Las Lenas is Argentina’s largest skiing attraction. Aside from bragging rights as the largest, Las Lenas is world famous and attracts vacationers and travelers from not only South America but all over the world.
Located in the Mendoza province of Argentina, Las Lenas skiing is done on the peaks of the Andes where the altitude on the upper lifts is so high, skiers find themselves above tree level with nothing but open runs to enjoy. The off-piste skiing is sure to make any skier smile and for the experts, heli-skiing is also available. The ski season is usually open from June to October and in the off months travelers enjoy hiking, mountain biking and horse riding alone the mountain ranges that were once covered by feet of snow.
Because of the size of Las Lenas, there is something for everyone. The ski lifts range from beginner to expert and there are ski and snowboard rentals available in many of the mountain’s rental shops. Bring your passport or photo ID. Leaving it behind in the hotel or hostel will mean you have to head back and might miss out on some precious skiing time. Lessons for kids are also available and despite is world-renowned popularity, it isn’t as expensive as one might think. North American and European travelers can enjoy the favorable exchange but will find the prices in Las Lenas slightly higher than in other regions.
A lift ticket will cost you around U$S 40, but differs slightly depending on the time of year. The ticket office has information on snow conditions, ticket prices, the hours of operation and other important information you will need for your visit.
Las Lenas, like any other of Argentina’s famous locations is fashion forward, meaning that when the slopes close the bars open, and restaurants and clubs give way to a bustling social scene.
Because Las Lenas is located so near Mendoza, great wine fills the many eateries located in this ski town. Buses also frequent back and forth to Mendoza and take about seven or eight hours. However, most people fly into Las Lenas using Aerolineas Argentina or LAN. Booking accommodations is fairly simple, with a list of hotels and hostels nearby the mountain.
