What is après-ski?

You’ve probably heard about après-ski this winter season, but do you know what it is? This concept is becoming increasingly popular among winter sports enthusiasts, and for good reason. Ski resorts and leisure venues are embracing this growing trend. Here are all the details.

The meaning of après-ski and its origins

It is a French expression that literally translates as “after skiing”, but its origins go much further north than France. It refers to all the activities that take place after the ski slopes close.

That’s when snow sports lovers gather to enjoy other activities such as games, social gatherings, and especially parties. The origins of this tradition date back to 19th-century Norway. It is said that after the last run of the day, people would enjoy aquavit, a Scandinavian alcoholic drink, often accompanied by potatoes.

From this tradition, Nordic chef Olaf Kjelsberg helped spread it beyond its borders by introducing it at the Ski Club Glarus in Switzerland in 1893. Due to its success, more and more Alpine hotels began organizing this type of celebration.

This expansion reached its peak after World War II, when renowned resorts such as Aspen and Breckenridge turned it into a high-society event. After a few decades of decline, après-ski has made a strong comeback, becoming a key moment to enjoy leisure after a day on the slopes. These parties are increasingly popular and have become an essential social event during any ski holiday.

Après-ski today in the Val d’Aran

Today, the expression usually refers to parties organized in venues located near ski facilities. All major ski resorts in Spain offer various options where you can enjoy this experience.

From around 3 p.m., activities begin in venues located at the foot of the slopes. A perfect way to enjoy yourself while still wearing your ski boots. On sunny days, DJs move outside to set the mood while you enjoy a drink and a snack.

The options are wide and varied, but one of the most famous is in Baqueira-Beret, specifically the Moët Winter Lounge terrace.

After night falls and once you’ve returned to your accommodation, you can enjoy other options in the towns of Arties and Vielha. There, different venues offer drinks and tapas, perfect for a light dinner shared with other skiers in the area.

To end the night, there is always a place where you can continue enjoying this Nordic-inspired concept. One of the most well-known is located in Vielha, De Vins. From Norway to all of Europe, celebrations and gatherings after a day on snowy slopes continue to grow in popularity. In the Pyrenees, some of the best après-ski events can be found in the Val d’Aran. To enjoy them—and the Baqueira-Beret resort—nothing beats staying in the Alma de Nieve tourist apartments, where you’ll find the best options to enjoy skiing and everything that comes after.