Ideal for letting your hair down after a day on the slopes.
Here’s a question we’re yet to find the answer to; what could be more enjoyable than setting off for a day’s fun with friends and family, as you ski or snowboard on pristine powder in some of the world’s most spectacular locations?
But as anyone who’s been skiing will attest, it’s not only about the adrenaline-fuelled antics on the slopes. Indeed, no day spent conquering challenging runs would seem quite so special if it didn’t end with a superb soiree.
With that in mind, a guide to the best places to go on the piste. Together with the experts at Alpine Elements, here are 5 fab French apres-ski bars, IDEAL for letting your hair down after a day on the slopes.
PUB LE SKI LODGE, LA TANIA
Located right at the bottom of Troika and opposite the Post Office in the middle of La Tania, Pub Le Ski Lodge has become an institution which has kept its offering of food, drinks and entertainment fabulously fresh over the years.
Tasty bar food is served every day, happy hour is from 4-6 PM and there’s live music each evening – a failsafe recipe for apres-ski fun which will have Pub Le Ski part of your daily routine on your next holiday here.
Tip: For pre-ski, this place opens at 10am. Check out their twitter page, @PubLeSkiLodge for updates.
LE SHOOTERS BAR, AVORIAZ
If you want to party hard in Avoriaz, Le Shooters Bar is the best place to light the fuse for a fantastic night out.
With live music and over 50 types of alcoholic shots to choose from, this is one venue which can have you fun and frivolous fast; a great meeting for new and old friends alike who share your passion for skiing, snowboarding or simply celebrating life.
Tip: For more Avoriaz apres-ski highlights, read this Telegraph guide.
SMITHY’S TAVERN, ALPE D’HUEZ
Nestled in the heart of the resort’s old sector, Smithy’s opened in 2002 and has been perennially popular ever since.
As well as tasty Tex-Mex burgers and grilled treats, live bands and DJs play every Wednesday, there are regular happy hours and theme nights, plus there’s a different drinks promo every 10 minutes on Sundays. With all this activity, it’s no wonder that you’re almost guaranteed to see table dancing in this vibrant venue – if the spirit takes you, join in the carnival and don’t be shy!
Tip: Wear your best dancing shoes at Smithy’s!
LA FOLIE DOUCE, VAL THORENS
If you’re after something properly rowdy, then visit the world-renowned apres ski bar ‘La Folie Douce’ where table dancing and partying on the piste is actively encouraged.
Here, the entertainment kicks off every afternoon at 3pm, and sees dancers, live music and DJ’s make this area of Tignes as hot as an Ibiza nightclub, without melting the snow.
Tip: Merch is available at Folie shop to commemorate your time here.
THE LOOP BAR, TIGNES LE LAC
Another firm favourite for
Tip: The three hour long Happy Hour, from 3pm to 6pm, is great value.
If you’re new to the sport, and will be starting out on the beginner slopes, not to worry; check out our 5 IDEAL tips for first time ski and snowboarders and prepare for some fun!