The Perito Moreno ski resort has a refugio providing very basic accommodation at very inexpensive prices. Meals are provided at the mountain refuge, but otherwise there is absolutely nothing to do in the evenings except sit around and tell stories of the day’s skiing adventures (so that might be a short conversation!)

Most people choose to stay in El Bolson where there’s a bit more action.

Accommodation El Bolson

El Bolson lodging is largely on the outskirts of town. There are only a few accommodation options in the centre of town. Most of the El Bolson accommodation consists of cabins (cabanas) and quaint inns (hosterias), many of which are for the budget oriented. There are also hostels if you’re really travelling on a shoestring.

El Bolson hotels are scarce, and the Cordillera Hotel and Amancay Hotel were closed when we visited. Summer is peak season for El Bolson, and many of the other accommodations also close up shop for the winter.

We stayed at Hosteria Villa Turismo (492505), slightly out of town on RA40 in Villa Turismo. The rooms were simple and had a private bathroom, and the light breakfast was basic, with coffee that knocked our socks off. The hosts were incredibly friendly (English not spoken).

Another popular hosteria is the Buena Vida Social Club. This bed and breakfast is more upscale and decorated with the work of local artists and artisans, including the very welcoming hosts (fluent English is spoken).