Argentina's ski resorts , though not on the same scale as those of Europe or North America, attract mainly domestic and fellow Latin American tourists (from Chile and Brazil), as well as a smattering of foreigners who are looking to ski during the northern summer. Infrastructure is constantly being upgraded in the main resorts, and it's easy to find rental gear. The main skiing months are July and August (late July is peak season), although in some resorts it is possible to ski from late May to early October. Snow conditions vary wildly from year to year, but you can often find excellent powder snow. The most prestigious resort for downhill skiing is modern Las Leñas , which offers the most challenging skiing and once hosted the World Cup; followed by Chapelco near San Martín de los Andes (where you also have extensive cross-country options, plus views of Lanín), and the Bariloche resorts of Cerro Catedral and Cerro Otto , which are the longest-established in the country, and which are still perhaps the classic Patagonian ski centres, with their wonderful panoramas of the Nahuel Huapi region. Bariloche and Las Leñas are the best destinations for those interested in après ski, while Ushuaia is an up-and-coming resort, with some fantastic cross-country possibilities and expanding - if still relatively limited - downhill facilities. One of the advantages of skiing at Ushuaia is that the experience is enhanced by the wonderful scenic views of the rugged, forested Fuegian sierras and the Beagle Channel. Other, more minor resorts include the mountain bowl of La Hoya near Esquel (traditionally a late-season resort and good for beginners); the tiny Cerro Bayo near Villa La Angostura; and isolated Valdelén near Río Turbio, with gentle runs on wooded hillsides right on the Chilean border. For updates on conditions and resorts, check out the Andesweb Web site ( www.andesweb.com ).