Ski Vertigo Blog · 19 November 2024
Updated for the 2026/27 season.
Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe, is renowned for its excellent skiing conditions and one of the most famous après ski scenes in the Alps. After a day exploring over 600km of piste across the 3 Vallées, the resort offers everything from champagne showers on a mountain terrace to family sledging once the lifts close. Here is our resort team’s guide to the best of it.
La Folie Douce: the dance floor at the top of the world
At 2,600 metres above the resort, at the top of the Plein Sud and Pionniers chairlifts, La Folie Douce is the most famous après ski venue in the Alps, and it earns the reputation daily. Live musicians and DJs build through the afternoon, the terrace fills with skiers dancing in their boots, and by mid-afternoon the champagne is going sideways as often as down.
There are two ways to eat here. La Fruitière is the gastronomic brasserie, styled after an old dairy cooperative, and worth booking for a long lunch. La Petite Cuisine is the self-service option when you want fuel rather than an occasion.
Two practical notes. First, it is on the piste, so you ski home: leave before the lifts shut and take the descent gently, since Plein Sud at closing time is an experience of its own. Second, it runs outdoors all season, so bring layers. The bar’s beer pumps are heated so the beer does not freeze; you are not.
More bars and nightlife
360
Situated at the top of the resort, 360 is a must-visit for those who enjoy a more sophisticated end to the ski day. This stylish venue features a spacious terrace where guests can relax with a drink while taking in breath taking mountain views. In the evenings, 360 transforms into a lively bar complete with a DJ. The chic atmosphere created is perfect for socialising.
La Grange
For a more laid-back vibe, head to La Grange, a cosy bar that offers a welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all ages. Known for its friendly staff and extensive drinks menu, La Grange is the ideal spot to unwind with friends after a day on the slopes. Enjoy delicious cocktails, local beers, and hearty snacks while you chat about your adventures on the mountain.
Frog Pub
A proper pub in the middle of the village: big screens for the sport, a young crowd and no pretensions. The reliable choice when you want a pint rather than a party.
Favela
Latin American kitchen by day, one of the busiest bars in the village by night. Good for groups who want food and music in the same room.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Le Panoramic
For those looking to combine an afternoon drink with gourmet dining, Le Panoramic is the perfect choice. Located at the top of the mountain, this restaurant offers stunning views along with a carefully crafted menu that showcases local Savoyard cuisine. Enjoy dishes like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette while soaking in the breath taking alpine scenery.
La Maison de Val Thorens
Another excellent dining option is La Maison de Val Thorens, known for its warm ambiance and delicious food. The restaurant specialises in traditional French and Savoyard dishes, with an extensive wine list to complement your meal. A fantastic spot for families or groups looking to share a hearty meal after a day of skiing.
Le Mushroom
For a more casual dining experience, Le Mushroom is a great choice. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of options, from pizzas and burgers to traditional alpine dishes. With a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, it’s the perfect place to refuel before heading back out for another round of après fun.
Hungry for the full list, from farm tables to Michelin stars? See our guide to the best restaurants in Val Thorens.
Unique Après Ski Activities
The hours after the lifts close don’t have to involve a bar or food. Val Thorens has plenty of other, more unique options for after skiing (if you are not too tired!).
Night Skiing
Val Thorens offers the unique opportunity for night skiing, allowing you to glide down the slopes under the stars. The illuminated runs create a magical atmosphere and offer a thrilling way to extend your skiing day. Check local schedules for designated nights when night skiing is available.
Ice Driving
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, ice driving is a must-try activity. With free shuttles from the centre of Val Thorens, this experience allows you to drive high-performance cars on a frozen circuit, providing a thrilling way to enjoy the winter landscape. This unique adventure is sure to get your heart racing!
Le Spa
After a long day on the slopes, treat yourself to some relaxation at one of Val Thorens’ luxurious spas. Many hotels and wellness centres offer a range of treatments, from massages to saunas, allowing you to unwind and recharge. Enjoy a soothing soak in a hot tub while taking in stunning mountain views.
Family-Friendly Options
If you still have energy after a long day of skiing, there are lots of activities on offer that all the family can enjoy.
Ice Skating
Val Thorens features an outdoor ice skating rink, perfect for families looking for fun after the slopes close. Glide around the rink with your loved ones and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The rink is usually open in the evenings, providing a magical experience under the stars.
Bowling and Games
For indoor fun, visit the bowling alley in Val Thorens. This family-friendly venue offers bowling lanes, arcade games, and pool tables, making it a great option for families to enjoy a relaxed evening together.
Snowtubing ‘Moon Xperience’
Open every day of the season depending on weather, snowtubing is great fun for all the family, with children from the age of 5 able to take part. With two slopes specifically dedicated to snowtubing, it is not one to be missed.
Fun Park – The Board
With different spaces for different ages, the fun park is a fantastic children’s play area for children up to 11 years old which is open every day of the season.
Snake Gliss Sledging
Individual sleds are joined together to form a ‘snake’. Up to 10 sleds per snake are allowed and the snake is piloted by a trained instructor. It runs in the evenings once the lifts have shut for the public, and the full descent takes around 45 minutes, suitable from 8 years old. It is the perfect way to finish your day on the slopes.
Après Ski in Val Thorens
From the first beat at La Folie Douce to a quiet vin chaud by the rink, Val Thorens fills the hours after the lifts close better than almost anywhere in the Alps. Find Plein Sud and the mountain venues before you head up with our Val Thorens piste map guide.
And stay in the middle of it: our catered chalets in Val Thorens are ski in ski out, minutes from the resort centre, with dinner and free-flowing wine waiting when you get home.
What time does après ski start at La Folie Douce Val Thorens?
The music builds through the afternoon and the party peaks in the hours before lift close. Arrive by mid-afternoon if you want a table on the terrace; after that, expect to stand and dance.
Can you get to La Folie Douce without skiing?
It sits at the top of the Plein Sud chairlift. Pedestrian access depends on the lift’s foot-passenger policy, so check locally before heading up without skis.
Is Val Thorens après ski family friendly?
Yes, beyond the bars. The resort runs snowtubing, an outdoor ice rink, bowling and the Snake Gliss sledge train once the pistes close, all covered in this guide.
Ready to plan your ski holiday?
Catered chalets in Tignes, Val Thorens, Val d'Isère, Reberty 2000 and La Plagne.