If you love a ski holiday, you’ll know that the day doesn’t end when you leave the slopes. The moment you step out of your boots, a different kind of energy takes over.
Music spills out of chalet-style bars and laughter carries across snowy streets. Après-ski has grown into a cultural highlight of winter holidays, offering everything from late-night parties to family-friendly gatherings – there’s even an après-ski wardrobe to consider when planning your getaway.
Choosing the right resort means you can enjoy the atmosphere that best suits your style, whether you’re chasing lively nights or winding down in comfort.
Classic party destinations
If you want the kind of après-ski that’s talked about long after the trip ends, Val d’Isère should be on your radar. Its slopes already attract strong skiers, and the village doesn’t slow down once the sun sets. You can dance in ski boots at La Folie Douce before heading down to Dick’s Tea Bar, where DJs keep the music going into the small hours.
For something equally electric, St Anton in Austria earns its reputation as a party capital. The town blends world-class skiing with a social scene that rarely winds down before dawn, with bars like the legendary MooserWirt keeping energy levels up.
Relaxed après-ski experiences
If you’re after something a little more sedate, there are plenty of resorts that allow you to unwind without missing out on the social side of skiing. In Morzine, you can settle into a rustic wine bar and share a bottle of red by the fire while live acoustic music plays. The village keeps a friendly, low-key feel where you can meet other skiers without having to shout over the music.
Les Gets offers the same easy pace. After a day on its tree-lined runs, you can step into a chocolate-box bar, try local Savoie specialities or enjoy a quiet evening listening to jazz.
Family-friendly après options
Ski trips often bring families together, and certain resorts make sure après-ski isn’t only about the nightlife. In Avoriaz, the central outdoor ice rink becomes a hub where children skate under twinkling lights while parents relax nearby. Entertainment often spills into the streets, with performers and music creating a warm atmosphere for all ages.
La Plagne also builds its evenings around families. Sledging runs open after dark, and you’ll find plenty of safe pedestrian zones where children can play while adults chat.
Why France is a strong choice for après-ski
Whole we rate resorts around the map, ski holidays in France remain one of the most convenient and rewarding choices for UK-based skiers seeking fun on and off the slopes. Journey times are short, flights are frequent, and the variety of resorts means you can shape your holiday exactly how you like.
France also delivers consistency on the slopes, so you can ski through the day before stepping straight into lively villages without losing time in transit.
The best après-ski resort is the one that matches your own idea of a good evening. Whatever your style, you’ll find a European resort ready to keep the spirit of the day alive long after you’ve left the slopes.
