Cerro Catedral | Bariloche

Cerro Catedral – The Largest Ski Resort in South America

Cerro Catedral is Argentina's most famous ski destination and the largest ski resort in South America, located in San Carlos de Bariloche, Patagonia. It offers world-class skiing, snowboarding, and mountain activities, making it a year-round destination for adventure lovers.

General Information

• Location: 19 km from San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina.
• Elevation: 2,388 meters (7,835 feet) above sea level.
• Ski Area: 1,200 hectares (2,965 acres) of skiable terrain.
• Lifts: More than 30 modern ski lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and drag lifts.
• Best Visit Seasons:
  • Winter (June – September) → Skiing & Snowboarding.
  • Summer (December – March) → Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Rock Climbing.

Why is it called Cerro Catedral?

The mountain is named “Cerro Catedral” because its rock formations resemble the spires of a Gothic cathedral.

Winter Activities (June – September)

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

• Over 60 ski trails for all skill levels:
  • Beginner – Wide, gentle slopes for first-time skiers.
  • Intermediate – Exciting runs with scenic views.
  • Advanced – Steep descents, off-piste areas, and tree skiing.
  • Freestyle & Snowparks – Designed for jumps, tricks, and freestyle maneuvers.
• Heli-Skiing: Off-trail skiing for experienced skiers, accessed by helicopter.

2. Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling

• Snowshoe hikes take visitors through the Andean forests, offering stunning panoramic views.
• Snowmobiles allow for an adrenaline-filled ride across snowy landscapes.

3. Night Skiing

• Some slopes offer illuminated trails, allowing visitors to ski under the stars.

4. Ski Schools and Rental Services

• Numerous ski schools offer lessons for children and adults.
• Ski equipment and clothing rentals are available on-site.

Summer Activities (December – March)

1. Hiking and Trekking

• Cerro Catedral offers some of the best hiking trails in Patagonia, leading to breathtaking viewpoints:
  • Refugio Frey Trail → A famous trek leading to a mountain hut near a glacial lake.
  • Cerro Catedral Summit → Offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Andes and Nahuel Huapi Lake.

2. Rock Climbing

• Refugio Frey is a world-class rock climbing area with granite towers for both beginners and professionals.

3. Mountain Biking

• Special bike trails run through forests, valleys, and rocky terrains, with lift access available for bikers.

4. Paragliding

• Visitors can paraglide from the summit, enjoying a spectacular aerial view of Bariloche and its lakes.

5. Horseback Riding

• Several tour operators offer horseback riding excursions through Patagonian landscapes.

Scenic Views and Surroundings

• Nahuel Huapi National Park → Cerro Catedral is part of this stunning protected natural area.
• Lago Nahuel Huapi → The mountain offers breathtaking views of the deep-blue glacial lake.
• Cerro Otto → Another popular mountain nearby, with a rotating restaurant and scenic gondola rides.

Facilities and Services

1. Base Village (Villa Catedral)

• Hotels, lodges, and cabins → Offers accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels.
• Restaurants and cafés → Serve traditional Patagonian food, including lamb, trout, and chocolate.
• Shopping → Stores sell ski gear, souvenirs, and outdoor equipment.
• Spa & Wellness Centers → Many lodges offer saunas, jacuzzis, and massages for relaxation.

2. Ski Resort Infrastructure

• Modern gondolas and ski lifts transport visitors quickly up the mountain.
• First-aid and emergency services are available for safety.

Events and Competitions

• FIS Ski World Cup Events – Cerro Catedral has hosted international ski and snowboarding competitions.
• Snow Festivals and Night Parties – Popular winter events with live music, torchlight parades, and fireworks.

How to Get There?

• From Bariloche:
  • By Car → 30-minute drive via paved roads.
  • By Bus → Frequent buses from Bariloche’s city center.
  • By Taxi or Shuttle → Private transfers are available.
• Nearest Airport: San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), with domestic and international flights.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (June – September) → For skiing and snowboarding.
• Spring & Summer (November – March) → For trekking, climbing, and sightseeing.
• Autumn (April – May) → Stunning fall colors, with fewer tourists.

Conclusion

Cerro Catedral is South America’s premier ski resort and a year-round adventure destination. Whether skiing in winter or trekking in summer, it offers breathtaking landscapes, excellent infrastructure, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. With its diverse activities, modern facilities, and scenic beauty, it is one of the top attractions in Bariloche and Patagonia.