Off the ski slopes, a world of fun and relaxation awaits. This comprehensive guide introduces you to après-ski, the quintessential post-skiing experience. We'll delve into what it is, what to wear, where to do it, and much more. Strap in for an après-ski experience that rivals the thrill of skiing!
"Après-ski", a term borrowed from French, translates to "after ski". It refers to activities undertaken after a day of skiing. First coined in the Alps in the 1950s, the term has become an integral part of the ski holiday experience. While the phrase may evoke images of lively slope-side bars, après-ski is much more. It encompasses everything from thrilling snowmobile rides and ice-skating to low-key board games, movie nights, and spa relaxation sessions. Simply put, après-ski is your passport to post-piste bliss.
There's no hard and fast rule for when après-ski begins. Typically, it starts as early as 3 or 4 pm, immediately after your last ski run.
Comfort and casualness are key for après-ski attire. Transitioning directly from slopes to après-ski in ski gear is commonplace, but some prefer a quick outfit change. Most venues accept jeans and a jumper. For upscale bars or spa sessions, attire accordingly, with comfort and practicality in mind.
The quintessential après-ski scene features bustling bars located adjacent to the ski slopes, facilitating an easy transition from skiing to partying. Live music or DJ sets are common, adding to the lively atmosphere.
For those preferring quieter spaces, plenty of laid-back venues offer the perfect environment for drinks. Alpine-style pubs, with their open fireplaces and wooden booths, are ideal for a cozy catch-up. These venues often feature traditional bar games, and on sunny days, spots with outdoor terraces are perfect for relaxing on a deckchair.
Skiing and spa sessions have been a classic combination since before ski lifts were installed in several popular spa towns. Austria, Canada, and the Scandinavian countries are famous for their historic thermal springs and saunas. Within many resorts, public pools are available for a leisurely swim or fun with the kids.
Winter excitement isn't restricted to skiing and snowboarding. Most ski resorts offer a variety of snow-based activities such as sleigh rides and ice-skating, as well as adrenaline-pumping activities like snowmobiling, ziplining, and ice-karting.
Europe boasts some of the best après-ski destinations globally. Here are a few renowned and popular spots:
St. Anton, a highly frequented ski resort in the Austrian Alps, is known for its vibrant après-ski scene featuring outstanding après-ski huts, clubs, and bars, such as The Mooserwirt and the Krazy Kanguruh.
Val d’Isère, a revered French ski resort, has a robust après-ski culture and unparalleled nightlife. La Folie Douce, a hilltop bar acclaimed for its live music and DJs, and Dicks Tea Bar, one of the largest nightclubs in the French Alps, are just two of its many offerings.
Verbier in the Swiss Alps is renowned for its abundant après-ski scene, which includes bars like the Ice Cube, restaurants such as Le Rouge, and nightclubs like the Farm Club. Zermatt, another Swiss Alps gem, offers an incredible array of après-ski locations for unwinding and reveling, including the Iglu Dorf, the Champagne bar, and the Hennu Stall.
Chamonix, a world-renowned French ski resort celebrated for its unique après-ski scene, which includes a variety of bars like the Chambre Neuf, Michelin-starred restaurants like the Albert Premier, and nightclubs like L'Amnesia.
Regardless of whether you’re skiing in France, Italy, Switzerland, or elsewhere in the world, a wide array of local après-ski drinks awaits. Here are some of the more popular choices:
Just like après-ski drinks, your destination country and region will dictate the popular après-ski food on offer. Here are some internationally renowned dishes:
To fully enjoy your après-ski experience, it's crucial to be aware of a few key dos and don'ts.
Ensure you're wearing comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the weather and the environment.
If you'll be skiing or snowboarding, ensure you have all the necessary equipment and gear.
Respect the ski resort, its staff, and other guests.
Après-ski parties are meant for relaxation and enjoyment, so feel free to let loose and have a good time.
Refrain from participating in activities that might disturb the tranquility of the ski resort or upset its guests. This includes actions like playing loud music or indulging in rowdy behaviour.
Ensure that you adhere to the local laws and customs of the ski resort you're visiting. This includes abiding by rules pertaining to alcohol consumption and drug use.
Après-ski is a cherished tradition in the world of skiing and forms an integral part of any ski holiday. Whether your preference is to socialize, relax, or party, there's an après-ski activity suitable for everyone. Dress appropriately for the occasion, indulge in the local drinks, and most importantly, enjoy yourself!
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