Travel Features

Best Ski Resorts For Partying And Apres Ski

We look at some of the most popular ski resorts scoring high off-piste


Val d'Isere, France


Val d'lsere is a much loved ski resort in the French Alps region of Savoie. A favourite winter getaway amongst younger travellers, Val d'lsere is the perfect spot for all winter sport seekers, with a challenging resort height of 1,850m suitable for beginners, intermediates and advance skiers. The French ski resort boasts modern facilities with a lively personality, not to mention Val d'Isere is part of the world-class Espace Killy ski area making it a very accessible resort. The ski season starts 29th November 2014 until 3rd May 2015.


  • Location: Val d'lsere, Savoie, French Alps, France

  • Closet Airport(s): Chambéry Airport (CMF) 2.5 hours and Geneva International Airport (GVA) 3.5 hours

  • Number of Ski runs: 158 ski runs from easy to challenging

  • Resort Info: Better-known as part of Espace Killy the huge skiing domain in Savoie. The charming village finds its 1,800 residents outnumbered 15 to one by guests in winter.

  • Why is it good for partying? Well known for its night-life, Val d'lsere has a mixture of lively pubs and night clubs as well as more civilised, intimate bars and restaurants to enjoy.

  • Where to go: Le Saloon (cheapest bar) Avenue Lodge Bar (cocktails), Underground Cafe- Music (open late) and Doudoune night club (free entry 11 pm to 00.30am.Free shuttle to take you home)






Ischgl, Tyrol, Austria


Ischgl is one of the most popular ski resorts in Austria, its boutique shops, top-class eateries and chic bars and clubs make it the perfect winter sports vacation for larger groups and young adults. The ski season here usually starts from late November until early May. As well as an exciting nightlife, Ischgl also has many fun activities to do including a bowling alley, leisure centre, indoor tennis courts, ice skating and even sleigh rides. With numerous ski runs and a resort height of 1,400m skiing in Ischgl can offer challenges for everyone.


  • Location: Ischgl, Tyrol, Austria

  • Closet Airport(s): Innsbruck Airport (INN) 90 mins and Munich Airport (MUC) 3 hours

  • Number of Ski runs: 69 ski runs (42 red, 14 blue, 13 black)

  • Background info: Farming village turned bustling resort, Ischgl retains its traditional charm whilst boasting a modern atmosphere.

  • Why is it good for partying: Wide range of bars and clubs, many part of resort hotel. As well as special events thorough the season including concerts starring famous artists.

  • Where to go: Schloss Lounge (modern/sophisticated), Club Pacha of Hotel Madlein (world renowned brand & celebrity hotspot), Ice bar (something different).







Zermatt, Switzerland


Zermatt is considered one of the world's most attractive areas for ski holidays, nestled in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn. The resort itself is home to unique facilities which set this Swiss ski resort apart from the rest, and with an approximate resort height of 1,620m Zermatt boasts many signature highlights such as the Matterhorn Museum and Gornergrat – a cog railway. Ski season here usually spans from November to late April but there are also many top events throughout the year.


  • Location: Zermatt, Swiss Alps, Switzerland

  • Closet Airport(s): Geneva International Airport (GVA) 2 hours 50 mins via train, Zurich Airport (ZRH) 3 hours 50 mins via train and Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP) 2 hours 50 mins via train

  • Number of Ski runs: 59 ski runs (12 blue, 41 red, 21 black)

  • Background info: Beautiful backdrop of the Matterhorn Mountain as well as its high altitude skiing. Also the opportunity to ski in Italy, as the ski area is linked to Cervinia.

  • Why is it good for partying: Whether it's after dinner or late night Zermatt has something for all hours. Also home to the popular “Zermatt unplugged” festival held in April every year.

  • Where to go: Bistro Bar Gornergrat (reasonably priced), Broken Bar Disco (open until early morning), Cuckoo (cocktail bar)






Vail, Colorado, USA


Vail is without a doubt one of the largest premier ski resorts in USA boasting more than 5,200 acres of skiable territory. Alongside vast acres of land Vail also has a resort height ranging from 1,052m – 3,527m. Set in the beautiful state of Colorado in USA, Vail has been welcoming US and international skiers and snowboarders for more than 50 years. With the winter season open from 21st November until 19th April this resort has much more to offer than skiing the slopes, make time to indulge the après ski lifestyle and local spa facilities.


  • Location: Vail, Colorado, USA

  • Closet Airport(s): Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) 25-30 mins and Denver International Airport (DEN) approx. 2 hours.

  • Number of Ski runs: 151 ski runs (26 beginners, 44 intermediate, 81 difficult).

  • Background info: Vail is located on the third largest ski mountain in North America - Vail Ski Resort's first season was in December 1962 also founded by Pete Seibert and local rancher Earl Eaton in this year.

  • Why is it good for partying: With an endless list of laid back and friendly bars and nightclubs on top of many fantastic food places and restaurants to sink you appetite into.

  • Where to go: King's Club (live music), Sandbar Sports Grill (sports and pool bar), SKI+BAR (great for dancing).







Whistler, BC, Canada


Voted number 1 overall resort in North America, Whistler in Canada is truly ski resort megastar. Popular with adventure seekers, young adults and families, Whistler is an exciting destination jam packed with things to do. With a resort altitude of 1,530m – 2,184m this Canadian ski resort offers great ski and snow sports conditions. If you are not here for the winter sports, Whistler also has so much to offer including shops, restaurants, après ski, nightlife and slope side bars. Winter season starts from 27th November until 19th April.


  • Location: Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

  • Closet Airport(s): Vancouver International Airport (YVR) 137 km and Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) 192km

  • Number of Ski runs: 200 (35 beginners, 110 intermediates, 55 difficult)

  • Background info: a major and luxury ski resort located 125 km north of Vancouver and the perfect choice for a ski holiday in Canada.

  • Why is it good for partying: Whistler offers a vast range of après ski options including international dishes, modern and cosy dining spots, live music, ales, spirits, cocktails and much more.

  • Where to go: Dusty's Bar & BBQ (the best BBQ sauce and party rocking live music), Maxx Fish (one of the best nightclubs Whistler) and Garfinkel's ("A Whistler Tradition").






Livigno, Italy


Livigno is located in the stunning alpine Valtellina valley, in the middle of the Italian Alps close to the Swiss border. Enjoying an excellent snow record due to its altitude (1800m - 3000m) Livigno is an exceptional snow-sure resort in Europe. This Italian ski resort has great skiing opportunities and a great night-life scene, as well as being a tax-free wonderland – one of Livigno's main appeals. The ski season in Livigno starts from 29th November till 3rd May.


  • Location: Livigno, Lombardy, Italy

  • Closet Airport(s): Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY)

  • Number of Ski runs: 78 ski runs (12 black, 37 red and 29 blue)

  • Background info: Livigno is a tax-free haven making it one of the most popular ski resorts in Europe as well as being good value for money, offering quality food and excellent shopping facilities.

  • Why is it good for partying: with over 140 bars and low prices Livigno is a great place to relaxing and enjoy after a day on the slopes.

  • Where to go: Kokodi (open till 5am), The Echo Pub (aged ales) and Marco's (big screen sports events).






Chamonix, France


One of Europe's most prestigious winter resorts, Chamonix is an upmarket ski destination in the French Alps known for its high mountains and charming features. Situated between the altitudes of 1235m and 3300m Chamonix is a family-friendly destination with modern facilities and quality services. The lively resort is also perfect for couple and group getaways. Chamonix winter season is usually from early December until early May (dates may vary so be sure to check before booking).


  • Location: Chamonix, French Alps, France

  • Closet Airport(s): Geneva International Airport (GVA), Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and Grenoble–Isère Airport (GNB)

  • Number of Ski runs: 69 ski runs (12 black, 25 red, 27 blue, 16 green)

  • Background info: Home to the first Winter Olympics in back 1924, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or more commonly known Chamonix is one of the most upscale ski resorts in the French Alps

  • Why is it good for partying: Chambre 9 is one of the places to après ski in Chamonix and is exactly what the après ski crowd is looking for.
    Where to go: BAR LE "A" HOTEL LES AIGLONS (chic with superb tapas), Chez Bacchus (wine & gourmet bistro) and The Pub (British sports bar).





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