Top 5 Apres Ski Resorts

One of the greatest aspects of any ski holiday is undoubtedly the après ski. Literally translated as ‘after ski’, it refers to the part of the day when you’re finished with the mountain and all that’s left to do is drink, dance and socialise.

Now before you start worrying about the logistics of it all (like lugging your skis back and forth) you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s nothing glamorous about après – in fact, the general rule is that you head straight from the slopes to the bar without so much of a change of socks. So the next time you’re booking your ski holiday, think about the following top five liveliest and all-round best resorts for après.

Cortina

Despite not being as well-known for après as other European resorts, Italy still gives it a good go. In particular, the resort of Cortina is pretty darn lively come sundown. With more of a sophisticated atmosphere than some other places, there are a good selection of wine bars to check out, specifically the wide range of tipples to try in Enoteca. Furthermore, clubs like Limbo and Metro Club mean that you won’t have to call it a night too early (unless you want to ensure you’ll actually make an appearance on the slopes the following day of course).

Zermatt

Don’t let its picture postcard exterior fool you; throughout the quaint centre of Zermatt there are over fifty bars, mostly found along the main street of Bahnhofstrasse. With an excellent array of establishments including famous mountain side huts and restaurants, one of the best things about Zermatt’s après ski is the music – live bands and singers are often a fixture of its many pubs and clubs, ensuring that you’ll be left singing the night away with the best of them.

Val D’Isere

Known for a large array of pubs and clubs, Val D’Isere is definitely a lot livelier than its neighbouring resort of Tignes. With a bar and restaurant like La Folie Douce setting the pace, you know it’s going to be interesting; an establishment which translates as ‘The Pleasant Madness’ - and with people known to dance on tables on a particularly lively day - it’s a restaurant-come-nightclub found on the mountainside. With other places like Grand Marnier and The Saloon Bar also being some of the most popular in town – it’s clear Val D’Isere knows how to party.

Verbier

With a solid selection of bars, Verbier in Switzerland has made its mark on the après ski scene. What truly sets it apart however is a fantastic assortment of nightclubs, allowing revellers to continue their fun well into the wee hours of the morning. If you’re part of a young crowd, head to Casbah. To spot a celebrity, get yourself down to The Farm Club and finally, for table service and elegant atmosphere: try the Coco Club. Wherever you go, you’re bound to get caught up in one of Switzerland’s best locations for nightlife.

St Anton

Widely known as the liveliest après ski resort of them all, St. Anton generally attracts a younger crowd as a result. However, regardless of your age, if you are looking for good nightlife alongside some decent skiing, you can’t go wrong with a trip here. Kicking off on the mountain in the early afternoon, both The Krazy Kanguruh and Mooserwirt are two of the most legendary bars in the resort – spilling out onto the mountain; they are filled with loud music and an endless supply of beer. If you’re after a quiet drink, there are a few tame places littered throughout the town, but just remember– if you’re after a quiet holiday, perhaps you’re better off choosing the resort of Alpbach instead.