Our favorite Après-Ski bars for your next holiday on the slopes

Après-Ski drinks just hit different. After a long, adrenaline-filled day in the snow, there simply is no better feeling than the one you get with that first sip as you defrost and unwind by the fire.

And if you’re as obsessed with excellence as we are, we’ve got just the selection for you. From design, to service, to discerning clientele, these Après-Ski bars are the crème de la crème.

The Alpina Lounge & Bar, Gstaad, Switzerland

Opened less than ten years ago on the heights of the very chic yet discreet village of Gstaad in the Bernese Alps, The Alpina Gstaad has succeeded in establishing itself as one of the most beautiful mountain hotels in the world. The striking, sleek design alone lets you know it’s those places where nothing has been left to chance. Atop an imposing wood and steel staircase, The Alpina Lounge & Bar is quintessential Après-Ski luxury, with its dramatic painted ceiling, beautiful hammered bronze bar, cozy sofas and, of course, crackling fireplace.

Bar Gyu+, Niseko, Japan

The town of Niseko is Japan’s most famous ski destination, and among its 50+ bars and restaurants, Bar Gyu+ is definitely the place to go — if you find it. Located down Yotei Zaka Street, this cozy, candlelit cocktail den is hidden behind a tiny vintage Coca Cola vending machine covered in stickers, which gave the otherwise unmarked venue its Fridge Door Bar moniker. Inside, spinning from a vintage turntable, smooth, retro jazz music fills the air while vest-clad bartenders pour rare Japanese whiskeys and expertly made craft cocktails from behind the walnut bar.

Shadow Mountain Lounge, Aspen, Colorado

Earth-toned space, clubby leather chairs, live piano, hot cocktails

With its earthy tones, plush leather seating, impressive granite fireplace and live piano music, The St. Regis Hotel’s comfy and sophisticated Shadow Mountain Lounge is equal parts ski lodge and jazz club, breaking away with the typical Aspen bar scene. The polished lounge offers cocktails, champagne, afternoon tea and delicious American plates — with impeccable service and a nice bit of people watching and celebrity spotting on the side, too.