The Wanderlist: Apres-Ski Destinations
When you’re off the slopes, these ski and snow towns deliver an après-ski game that’s worthy of being its own attraction.
Aspen, Colorado
Between the four mountains and the two towns of Aspen and Snowmass, there’s plenty of choice for après ski in this destination. Towed behind a snowcat, the Oasis is a pop-up champagne bar that appears on Aspen Mountain – ski in for some bubbly. At the base of the mountain grab drinks, truffle fries and a seat on the patio at Ajax Tavern. For afternoon dancing, hit the outdoor deck at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, where the party starts around 1 p.m. In Aspen, live music lounges and a free concert series add some variety to the party scene.
Whistler, British Columbia
Whistler’s après-ski scene offers a little bit of everything. Dive into a tipple at one of the many bars including Dusty’s, a go-to spot for Caesars and Merlin’s, where the staff encourage bar-top dancing. For families, kids can sip on hot chocolate and participate in outdoor activities at Family Après. Enjoy fine-dining at Bearfoot Bistro or take a break from skiing at Steeps, a full-service restaurant right on the mountain. Whistler’s lunch and dinner tasting tours allow you to sample more of the many food options available in this ski town.
Kitzbühel, Austria
Eateries in Kitzbühel run the gamut from snack shacks to gourmet restaurants, making it the top destination for food-focused après-ski. Right on the mountain, 60 restaurants and ski huts allow you to chow down in between runs. The alpine area is home to several Gault Millau rated restaurants including Gourmet Kupferstube, an award-winning restaurant that has been considered one of the best in Austria for decades. In Kitzbühel, the practice ski lifts are free so beginners can save their money for even more noshing.
Les Deux Alpes, France
Due to the height of its glacier, les Deux Alpes has an extra-long ski (and party) season that stretches from the beginning of December to the end of April. There are several slope-side attractions and eateries, including Pano, where the excitement starts at 3 p.m. with live DJ sets, dancers and musicians. Once the slopes close, head to Rue de Vikings for more bars and clubs. The menu at K.ré lounge lists over 150 shooters and 100 cocktails. If you’re not tired yet, l’Avalanche night club is open until 5 a.m.
Livigno, Italy
Nestled in a valley between two mountains, the town centre of Livigno is a duty-free shopping paradise. The tax-exempt area is home to over 250 stores. But don’t get too carried away – the amount you can bring across the border is limited. After a day spent skiing the Italian Alps, choose from Livigno’s more than 100 bars and restaurants to wet your whistle or satiate your palate. A number of nightclubs keep the party going late. Taking a break from the slopes? Aquagranda features a waterpark for kids and adults.
