The Alps: 8 new après-ski ideas this winter

You always had to choose: sledding and hot chocolate or jacuzzi then nightclub. But this winter in the Alps, you’ll discover the future of après-ski.

Good times at La Folie Douce

Welcome to the temple of all things not skiing! At La Folie Douce in Val Thorens, the après-ski starts at midday out on the open-air dance floor. Don’t forget to take your beanie off if you want to let your hair down!

Ain’t no chalet higher

© Elisalocci / Istockphoto — The sun sets and skiers return to their chalets

A spa with a view. A restaurant with three Michelin stars. Cosy-chic interiors. The mountain lifestyle isn’t what it was... In Saint-Martin de Belleville, for example, the Relais et Châteaux La Bouitte hotel has totally reinvented the mountain chalet.

Thrills by day, thrills by night

Have an early night to hit the superlative slopes, or keep the party going at a free concert at the electronic music festival, or even an unforgettable NYE? In Tignes, anything is possible.

Snowy jazz

© Piola666 / Istockphto — Enjoying the music at Jazz’Alp Festival

A jazz festival made by locals, for locals, and for the love of the craft. The Jazz’Alp Festival in l’Alpe du Grand Serre shows you the other side of the Alps.

Beyond the summits

The best sunset of your life awaits you as you float above the summits in a paraglider. It’s the only time you’ll look down on Mont Blanc.

Eskimo nights

© vovashevchuk / Istockphoto — A night in an igloo

Outdoor temperature: 2°C. Fortunately, winter sleeping bags and a hearty mountain meal can be found at the Williwaw Inuit village. You won’t forget this night in a hurry.

Hiking by night

© Ventdusud / Istockphoto — Tranquillity in Aussois

Forget summer hikes, sunburn, and stony ground. In Aussois, you can try nocturnal hikes on the snow. A one-hour walk in total silence. At the end, a fondu awaits in the hut.

A spa to take the weight off

In Chamonix, the Heliopic Sweet & Spa hotel awaits at the Aiguille du Midi cable car. Forget time and the weight of the world with a divine well-being break overlooking the summits.

chamonix