Welcome to La Hoya
Location: Esquel, Chubut Province, Patagonia, Argentina
Address: Ruta Provincial 259, Esquel, Argentina
Altitude: Base: 4,430 ft | Summit: 6,070 ft
La Hoya is a hidden gem in the heart of Patagonia. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, affordable prices, and exceptional snow quality, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and experience authentic skiing in Argentina. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or trying the slopes for the first time, La Hoya offers something for everyone.
Why Choose La Hoya?
Advantages Over Nearby Resorts:
Longer Ski Season: South-facing slopes and dry powder allow skiing from June to October—longer than most Argentine resorts.
Affordable Prices: Lift tickets, accommodations, and lessons are often more budget-friendly compared to larger resorts like Bariloche.
Uncrowded Slopes: Off-piste areas remain fresh for days, and queues are minimal.
Charming Simplicity: Esquel’s small-town charm offers an authentic Patagonian experience.
Pros:
Excellent off-piste and backcountry skiing.
Great snow quality and retention.
Affordable accommodations and dining options in Esquel.
Friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Cons:
Small beginner area that can get crowded on weekends.
Limited variety of lifts, mostly surface and slow chairlifts.
Remote location requires effort to reach.
Getting to La Hoya

From Buenos Aires:
By Plane: Fly to Esquel Airport (EQS) from Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP). Flights are 2 hours, followed by an 18 km (20-minute) drive to the resort.
By Car: A road trip from Buenos Aires takes approximately 20 hours.
From San Carlos de Bariloche:
By Car: A 4-hour scenic drive along Ruta 40.
By Bus: Public buses take about 6 hours but are a budget-friendly option.
Getting to the Resort from Esquel:
By Shuttle or Taxi: Affordable and frequent options from town to the resort.
By Car: A 20-minute drive; snow chains are recommended.
Ski Terrain Overview
Total Trails: 28 (10% Beginner, 30% Intermediate, 40% Advanced, 20% Expert)
Vertical Drop: 1,640 ft
Skiable Area: 148 acres
Lifts: 9 (including quad chairs, double chairs, and surface lifts)
Annual Snowfall: 360 inches
Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Snowboard Park: FlyPark, with sections for beginners, intermediates, and experts.
For Beginners:
Gentle slopes near the base area are ideal for first-timers.
Magic carpets make learning stress-free.
For Intermediates:
A mix of groomed trails and off-piste options ensures variety.
Perfect for building confidence and exploring more challenging terrain.
For Advanced/Experts:
Steep chutes, bowls, and backcountry access offer thrilling experiences.
Short hikes open up untouched powder runs.
Ski and Snowboard School


La Hoya’s ski and snowboard school is well-regarded for its personalized approach and professional instruction.
Why Choose La Hoya’s School?
Certified Instructors: Trained to international standards and experienced in teaching diverse groups of learners. These professionals are skilled in making lessons engaging and tailored to individual needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the slopes.
Multilingual Staff: Lessons available in Spanish, English, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Mandarin, and Japanese.
Custom Programs: Designed to suit all ages and skill levels.
Lesson Options:
Full-Day Beginner Program: Learn the basics in a fun, supportive environment.
Half-Day Refresher: Ideal for those returning to the slopes after a break.
Show Me Around: Guided tours for first-time visitors to La Hoya.
Family Packages: Flexible options for families, ranging from half-day to week-long programs.
Private Lessons: Personalized one-on-one instruction to accelerate progress.
Semi-Private Lessons: Learn with friends or family in a smaller group setting.
Group Classes: Affordable and social, perfect for meeting fellow skiers.
Snowboarding Lessons: From basic skills to advanced tricks and backcountry techniques.
What to Expect:
Skill assessment at the start of the lesson.
Clear, step-by-step guidance.
Real-time feedback and encouragement.
Safety tips and local insights from experienced instructors.
Request Pricing & Schedule
Request Pricing and Schedule from Innsbruck Representative
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season: Late July to early September offers the best snow and weather conditions.
Spring Skiing: Enjoy sunny days and fewer crowds in September and October.
Tips for Visitors
Where to Stay:
Luxury: Las Bayas Hotel, Av. Alvear 985, Esquel.
Mid-Range: Hostería Cumbres Blancas, Av. Ameghino 1683, Esquel.
Budget: Residencial Ski, Av. Fontana 765, Esquel.
Where to Rent Equipment:
In Town: Patagonia Ski Rental, Av. Fontana 832.
At the Resort: On-site rental shops offer convenience but can be pricier.
Where to Dine:
On-Mountain: La Piedra Café serves hearty soups and empanadas.
In Town: Parrilla La Barra, Av. Fontana 1023, for local steak and wine.
What to Bring Home:
Handmade chocolates from Chocolatería Artesanal Fontana.
Woolen goods and crafts from Feria de Artesanos.
Beyond Skiing:
Snowshoe Tours: Explore scenic trails around the resort.
Alerces National Park: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site for breathtaking views and hiking.
Experience La Hoya
La Hoya is more than a ski resort; it’s a chance to connect with Patagonia’s stunning natural beauty and warm hospitality. From its pristine slopes to its welcoming town, La Hoya offers an unforgettable experience for every type of skier and snowboarder. Plan your visit today and discover why this hidden gem is a favorite among those in the know.

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