Inside the Portillo, Chile ski experience—from daily life and family-friendly lodging to what makes this independent resort so unique.

And for our Ski Moms community, there’s a little added bonus:

Enjoy 10% off your stay for bookings between June 20 and August 1 by emailing reservations@skiportillo.com and mentioning SKIMOMS.

Last week, we covered how to plan a trip to Portillo. In this episode, we’re getting to the heart of it: what makes this iconic Chilean ski resort feel so different once you arrive.

We’re joined by Ellen Guidara, who serves on the board of Portillo and previously led its marketing. From arriving as a young ski instructor after Middlebury to returning after an 11-year career at Disney, Ellen brings a rare, personal perspective on the resort’s evolution and enduring magic.

Recorded over tea at Portillo, this conversation explores the rhythm, traditions, and intentional choices that define the experience—from shared tables and afternoon tea to remaining independent in a world of mega passes.

If you’re curious about what keeps families coming back year after year, this episode brings that feeling to life.

In This Episode:

Why Portillo has stayed independent (no Epic or Ikon)
The all-inclusive rhythm that makes the week feel effortless
How shared meals and traditions create real community
Family weeks vs. August’s more social energy
The realities of running a remote ski resort in the Andes

Planning a Trip?

We’re partnering with Portillo this month to share more tips, guides, and behind-the-scenes.

Follow along on Instagram @theskimoms and subscribe to the newsletter for more.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks.

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more.

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
Sarah@skimomsfun.com
Nicole@skimomsfun.com