A new ski area and mountain lodging development is being proposed in Valle Hermoso, a remote mountain destination in Argentina’s Mendoza province, as the group behind Las Leñas seeks environmental approval for an expansion of its tourism operations. The project, presented by Altos Cerros S.A., would add up to 15 boutique lodges, expand existing visitor facilities, and establish ski terrain accessed initially by snowcats, with fixed lifts proposed for a later phase. The proposal will be discussed at a public hearing on November 18 as part of Mendoza’s environmental review process.
The hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. local time and will be held online through Zoom. The project has not received final environmental approval, and the hearing is one step in the process rather than permission to begin construction.
Valle Hermoso lies approximately 12 to 19 miles (20 to 30 kilometers) from Las Leñas, one of Argentina’s established ski destinations, in the department of Malargüe. The proposed development would occupy an area of approximately 45 hectares, or 111 acres, near the Valle Hermoso lake. According to Argentine media reports, the plan calls for up to 15 modular boutique lodges, each designed to accommodate four people. The lodges would be added progressively over five years, with approximately 16,000 square feet (1,500 square meters) of projected covered space across the development. Plans also include improvements to the existing campground and motorhome area, doubling the capacity of the restaurant and general store, and adding terraces overlooking the lake. A solar energy installation is also proposed.
The ski component would be developed in stages. Initially, visitors would reach ski terrain using enclosed, tracked snowcats capable of carrying up to 10 people. A later phase, projected for 2030 or beyond depending on approvals, could add fixed lifts, including chairlifts and surface lifts.
The location presents a logistical challenge. Heavy winter snowfall can close the road to Valle Hermoso, which has historically operated mainly as a summer destination for camping and outdoor recreation. Under the proposal described by local media, access during winter would be organized from Las Leñas, with snowcats transporting visitors into the area.
Environmental Questions Remain
The development is undergoing an environmental impact assessment involving provincial and national agencies. These include Argentina’s National Water Institute, the Argentine Institute of Snow Research, Glaciology and Environmental Sciences, water management authorities, protected-area officials, road authorities, and the municipality of Malargüe.
Reporting by Diario UNO and Mendoza Viva identifies several issues raised during the technical review. Among them, authorities reportedly requested evidence of the required water concession for drawing water from Valle Hermoso lake and a more complete water balance assessing the lake’s capacity. Additional information was requested concerning the project’s proximity to glacial and periglacial features under Argentina’s Glacier Law. Reviewers also raised concerns about protecting traditional livestock herding routes used by local families who move their animals seasonally. Further details were requested on diesel storage, contingency plans for the Zonda wind, and the safe treatment of wastewater.
The National Water Institute’s technical assessment reportedly characterized the project’s environmental impact as moderate, provided the proposed environmental management plan is implemented. The review also identified potential benefits, including year-round tourism and direct and indirect employment in Malargüe. Those findings do not constitute final approval, and the outstanding issues remain part of the assessment process.
Public Hearing Set for November 18
Mendoza’s Subsecretariat of Environment called the hearing under Resolution 303-SSA-2026. Individuals, organizations, and public or private institutions with an interest in the project can register to speak or submit observations through the provincial environmental hearing process. Registration to speak is due by 11:59 p.m. on November 17, according to the published notice.
The hearing will give interested parties an opportunity to raise questions about the proposal before the environmental authorities make a decision on its viability.
For Valle Hermoso, the development could bring new winter tourism infrastructure to an area that has largely been a warm-season destination. Whether that vision proceeds will depend on the environmental review, the responses to technical observations, and the conditions imposed by the relevant authorities.
For now, the proposed ski area and lodges remain under evaluation, with no confirmed construction start date or opening schedule.
