5 luxurious Summer ski destinations

Seasoned travellers seeking a new Summer escape may find luxurious adventures in an unlikely place on the ski slopes. From the Alps to Argentina, these mountaindestinations offerconsistent snow conditions, lively cultureand upscale accommodations. Here are our top 5 luxurious Summer ski destinations:

Portillo, Chile

Almost unearthly in its beauty,Ski Portillo Resort isnestled amongstthe towering peaks of the Andes andthe shimmering Laguna del Inca. Portillos remote location and limited lodging options make for an exclusive atmosphere, withcrowd-free slopes andempty lift lines. The resort enjoysfierce loyalty among repeat guests, many of whom return year after year for the familial atmosphere and all-inclusive reservation structure.Guestsof Ski Portillo book week-long packages, which includeaccommodations, four communalmeals a day, lift tickets and access to resort facilities, includingthe fitness center and spafacilities.The expansive Portillo Hotel features a slope-side swimming pool, theater, climbing wall and game room.

Las Lenas, Argentina

Like many of the best South American ski destinations, Las Lenas is remote, but the terrain quality, five-star lodging and stunning views make this popular Argentine resort worth the effort to get here.Inconsistent servicemaygrate travellers accustomed to instant gratification at first, but the relaxed atmospherewill delightthose whoembrace the leisurely pace of Las Lenas. Luxury accommodations are available at the ski-in/ski-out Virgo Hotel & Spa, where staff will take your boots off for you and you’ll find a plasma screen TV in your room. For a gastronomic treat, try Malbec, an upscale restaurant in the Aries Hotel.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Lying justbeyondThe Remarkables, an aptly named mountain rangerisingdramatically behind Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an ideal retreat for all types of skiers. Groomer enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of mellow terrain at all four area resorts, while devoted powder hounds can find plenty of steep slopes and excellent snow conditions. Popular resorts includeThe Remarkables Ski Area and Coronet Peak. Non-skiers will appreciate Queenstown’s upscale restaurants andthriving nightlife scene. Luxury accommodationsrangefrom the internationally reputableSofitel Queenstown to the charming Dairy Private LuxuryHotel, a boutique bed and breakfast that beganin the 1920sas a corner store.

Cerro Bayo, Argentina

Thisboutique family-owned resortlikely isnt the firstdestination to come to mind for a luxury ski vacation, but with a growing reputationearned by perfecting its small-mountain, familial nicheand amulti-millionpound lodging project currently in development, Cerro Bayo may soon earn greater internationalrecognition.The awe-inspiring views ofLake Nahuel Huapifrom the slopes are known to make skiers feel as if they might ski right into the water.

Zermatt, Switzerland

For the sheer novelty of skiing, hiking and golfing all in the same vacation, this world-renowned resort is worth exploring in the traditionally off-peak months of summer. Guests can ski or snowboard the Theodul Glacier (the only slopes in the world to remain open 365 days a year) in the morning, with afternoons free for adventures in fly fishing, paragliding and mountaineering. Summer travellers will find the same sumptuous accommodations and service they have come to expect at the upscale Zermatt, including five-star hotels and luxurious on-mountain chalets.