Après‑Ski Unpacked: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Spots for Post‑Slope Fun

What Is Après-Ski? The Best Places to Enjoy It

apres-ski-guide

Immortalized by Slim Aarons and perfected by style giants such as Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot, there’s no culture quite like après‑ski. After hours of doing parallel turns on scenic trails, it’s high time to trade in the snowy chill for alpine decks and gooey fondue (accompanied by a glass of Champagne, of course). Where should you go to have a memorable post‑powder experience? Here are the mountains with the best après‑ski scene—and the history of the time‑honored winter tradition.

The Origins of Après‑Ski

The phrase “après‑ski” literally translates from French to “after ski,” and it encompasses all the activities people tend to do after a ski run. Although the precise origins are hard to pin down, the custom of socializing after a day on the slopes can be traced back to mid‑19th‑century Norway, particularly the Christiania Ski Club founded in 1877. By the early to mid‑20th century, après‑ski had migrated to the Alps, where the concept of winter tourism was beginning to flourish. Hotels such as the Kulm in St. Moritz were among the first to promote skiing as a recreational pursuit, and by the 1950s, après‑ski had become inseparable from ski culture worldwide.

From Norway to the Alps

Skiing itself is ancient (the oldest known skis were found in Russia and date to approximately 6000 BCE), but the custom of après‑ski developed alongside the growth of ski resorts. Early après‑ski gatherings were simple: a quick meal, a few drinks, and a casual conversation with fellow skiers. Over the decades, the tradition evolved into a multi‑hour celebration that can last until midnight or even into the early morning, depending on the destination.

How Après‑Ski Culture Varies Around the World

Alpine Traditions

In legendary destinations such as France and Switzerland, après‑ski often involves fondue picnics and fair‑isle‑clad skiers. While this snapshot still exists, the social custom of après looks a little different depending on which mountain region you visit. For example, in France and Switzerland, it’s common for skiers to freshen up before heading toward the bubbling flutes of Champagne, while in Canada, heading straight from slope to après for a beer and poutine is the norm. In Japan, the après scene is less focused on glamorous setups and more on soothing hot‑spring (onsen) experiences.

Modern Twists

“The shift toward quieter, more reflective winter vacations is becoming increasingly apparent,” says Michael Lehnort of Carlton Hotel St. Moritz. In recent seasons, skiers and guests increasingly seek mindfulness as part of their après‑ski experience. Luxury wellness, live music, and themed events are now integral to many après‑ski itineraries.

Après‑Ski Etiquette

Do’s and Don’ts

Plan your après‑ski agenda in advance: book meals, drinks, and entertainment to avoid last‑minute rush.
Keep your gear organized: avoid cluttering tables or countertops with helmets and accessories.
Use polite greetings and thank your server to create a friendly atmosphere.
At higher altitudes, pace yourself with mulled wine or a local craft beer to keep your energy up.

What to Wear to Après‑Ski

Style & Function

Layer smart: a lightweight down jacket or a tailored knit sweater for warmth.
Accessorize: a wool‑felt cap, a stylish watch, and a compact backpack to carry your essentials.
Choose breathable fabrics that allow you to move freely during après‑ski conversations.

Top Après‑Ski Destinations

Verbier, Switzerland

Restaurant: Chez Pierre – traditional fondue & mulled wine.
Entertainment: live jazz trio and a DJ set for late‑night dancing.
Photo spot: panoramic view from the summit, perfect for Instagram‑ready shots.

Courchevel, France

Restaurant: Le Grand Bleu – Swiss‑style raclette & Champagne.
Entertainment: spa relaxation lounge and nightly open‑mic session.
Photo spot: hillside terrace with a sunset view.

Chamonix, France

Restaurant: La Cumbre – classic French raclette & poutine.
Entertainment: a live band and a cocktail bar.
Photo spot: a 360° panoramic camera rig for capturing mountain vistas.

Tyrol, Austria

Restaurant: Alpine Lodge – Austrian-style sauerbraten & beer.
Entertainment: an outdoor cinema for movie nights.
Photo spot: a mountain‑top viewpoint with a drone‑camera station.

Aspen, Colorado

Restaurant: The Lodge at Aspen – Tex‑Mex‑inspired tacos & craft cocktails.
Entertainment: a themed dance floor and a DJ set.
Photo spot: a snow‑covered ridge for dramatic back‑drops.

Further Destinations

Italian Dolomites – the best après‑ski includes a hearty stew and a selection of local wines.
Japanese Hakuba – hot‑spring baths, live jazz, and a seasonal pop‑up market.
Canadian Banff – a mix of poutine, craft beer, and a nightly fireworks display.

Après‑Ski Food & Drinks

Fondue – classic Swiss cheese fondue, served with a side of bread and a glass of sparkling wine.
Mulled wine – a warm, aromatic drink that’s perfect for higher altitudes.
Poutine – a Canadian specialty of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Brunch cocktails – light drinks to keep the energy flowing.