The Party People’s Guide to Apres Ski

Sure, the amount of powder is a key factor in choosing a ski resort, but if you like to follow going down the slopes with getting down on the dance floor, you need to check out après-ski options and beyond. Of course, it’s not all about parties, but you want to have some choice. Heading home without hitting an on-slope party is almost a crime, but you might also want to grab a great meal, sip a cocktail in a speakeasy-style bar, or check out a band or a DJ before you head off to bed. These five ski resorts offer the best of everything.

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Aspen, USA

It’s got a celebrity following, but its four mountains and huge ski area put Aspen on the ski bucket list for the rest of us, too. It also has what many believe is the best après scene in North America. One of the most coveted spots for a table is on the patio at Ajax Tavern – part of Little Nell – where famished skiers get on the beers and the truffle fries. Another spot that goes completely off is Cloud Nine (below) on Aspen Highlands. Its the biggest buyer of Veuve Clicquot in North America, although a lot of it is used for champagne showers. Make your reservation when you book your trip, otherwise you're unlikely to get in (unless you're good mates with Will Ferrell or some other celeb). Once you’re off the mountain, it’s all about WET Deck, the rooftop at W Aspen, with its 360-degree views and hot tub. Feeling hungry? Hit Home Team BBQ for house-smoked meats, southern sides and frozen cocktails. When you’re done, head to the basement of the Aspen Times building for Bad Harriet, an elegant but pricy cocktail bar.

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Note: we've never been, but an insider tells us she's never seen anything like the party on Aspen Highlands' closing day.

Val d’Isere, France

Oh là là! This is where the rich and glamorous come to play, both day and night. It’s even fun for those who aren’t expert skiers. There are beginner slopes, as well as black runs, and ice skating and tobogganing for those who aren’t even fussed about strapping on the planks. Then there is the fun to be had at Val d’Isere without any sort of added equipment. You’re sure to find yourself at La Folie Douce (below), the cabaret/bar/bacchanal that starts while the sun is still high in the sky and goes on well into the night. Another party on the slopes is Cocorico, where there’s live music after 3pm on the terrace and DJs until late. Dance on the tables, but don’t fall off them. Once you’ve taken your ski boots off, head for Dick’s Tea Bar, a Val d’Isere institution where the dance floor is always heaving.

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Whistler, Canada

Not only is this North America’s largest ski resort, but it also features the epic Peak 2 Peak gondola that links the top of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. It gets big ticks for the quality of the terrain as well as the enormous amount of snow, but Whistler's party scene is also much loved. When you’re ready to whip the board off and have a beer, head to The Longhorn Saloon at the base of the slopes, where crowds gather on the patio and stay till well after the sun goes down. Ready to party? Garfinkel’s has some of the best nightlife in town. Hell, they’ve been keeping it wild since 1991, and with past performances by the likes of Avicii, Armand Van Buuren, Ghostface Killah and more, this ain’t no amateur hour. There’s also the remarkably well-named Après Après, which goes hard till 2am every day. If you’re looking for beers, mountains of nachos and live music, Merlin’s Bar (below) is home to local rockers, The Hairfarmers.

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Zermatt, Switzerland

Nothing else matters when you’ve got the Matterhorn in your sights. Zermatt is Europe’s highest ski resort and has 360km of runs for all types of skiers. Spend your days touring with a mountain guide or perfecting your moves in the Rail Garden at Snowpark Zermatt. We realise you’ll probably be wrecked at day's end but do not head straight back to your chalet, because first you must become acquainted with Hennu Stall on the Klein Matterhorn Express. Inside it’s all shots of Jager from a ski, pop and dance music and even fancy dress, but the terrace, although crowded, is where to go for a break. Luckily, it’s a flat ski back to the resort. Back at the resort, grab a shot on the terrace and get into the live music at Papperla Pub, a favourite with travellers and locals. If sophistication is what you’re after, order champagne at the stylish Elsie’s. Can’t decide what mood you’re in? Unique Hotel Post has five different bars, pubs and clubs from which to choose, including Pink (below).

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Kitzbühel, Austria

Perfectly groomed slopes? Check. State-of-the-art lift system? You got it. And 233km of pistes? Not a problem. The skiing in the small alpine town of Kitzbühel in the province of Tyrol is first rate and its medieval town centre is as pretty as a picture. But if you really want to see a town go off, head there during the running of the supremely dangerous Hahnenkamm downhill race. It attracts the live-fast crowd, who can be found at Pavillon from 2pm every day lapping up the live music and plentiful drinks. If you’re looking for something more chill, find a spot on the heated terrace at KitznBar. At some point during your stay, you’ll want to hit The Londoner (pictured below), and if you’re still going well into the night you’ll likely find yourself at Club Take Five shaking what your mamma gave you.