El Colorado ski centre is 39 kilometres from Santiago, the Capital of Chile. There are no trees to crash into (you're more likely to find cacti), and you get an amazing view of Santiago from the slopes! Beware of altitude sickness on the way up, its an extremely steep and windy road (don't eat your lunch just before going!!) The centre sits at 2430 - 3333 metres above sea level.

There's lots of lovely off-piste, and a few fun black runs as well as plenty of reds and blues (11 green, 4 blue, 3 red and 4 for black) - in total 22 pisted runs covering 40km's of skiable terrain. There are 19 lifts; 2 double chairs, three triple chairs, 12 drag lifts and 2 kids lifts.

Prices for hotels, lift passes etc are about the same as in France, equipment rental is a bit cheaper. You can find second hand shops in Santiago selling all the clothes and if you're lucky you might find some second hand boots in your size.

The season starts mid June and ends mid October. El Colorado Ski Centre is linked (sometimes) to La Parva and Valle Nevado forming a large ski area. This resort could be characterised as more of a local resort, perhaps due to its close proximity to, and easy access from, Santiago.