The Ultimate Guide to Après-Ski: Find the Best Activities for Every Mood
Après [ˈä-ˌprā}: The social activities and entertainment following a day’s skiing.
If you thought that after the lifts stopped turning in Whistler all of the fun would end, you couldn’t be more wrong. Skiing is certainly the star of the day, but there can be so much more to do after the sun goes down. Heck, sometimes the plan to après-ski is half the reason you can decide to hit the slopes to begin with. Typically when people think of après they imagine noshing on tasty food, savouring cold drinks and breaking out in some occasional dancing in ski boots with friends. While they’re not wrong – après can be so much more. Whether you are in the mood for an energized party scene or a cozy night in, there is something for everyone. So put on your favourite après-ski outfit and follow this advice to find the perfect après for you.
Mood: Energized and Ready to Party
If your legs aren’t jelly from skiing powder and you are ready to party post-ski, look no further than Mallard Lounge. This lively après-ski spot is the perfect place to let loose your ski boots and celebrate a day of skiing or snowboarding. With a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and great music, Mallard Lounge will keep your energy levels high and your spirits even higher.
The menu offers a wide range of options, from hearty appetizers and comfort foods to world-renowned cocktails, wines, and beers. Some of our favourites include the famous loaded nachos, crispy cauliflower bites, and the confit Mallard duck wings.
But the real highlight of the après-ski experience at the Mallard Lounge is the live music. Local musicians take to the stage to provide boot stomping soundtrack to the evening. The atmosphere is always upbeat and energetic, and it’s the perfect way to get into the party mood before heading out to explore the rest of the village.
And speaking of parties, if you are lucky enough to be in Whistler on a Sunday night, be sure to catch the Fire and Ice Show at the base of Whistler Mountain. This weekly event, features Whistler’s best skiers and riders jumping and flipping through a blazing ring of fire accompanied by an electric mix of music and dance. It all ends with a dazzling fireworks display and is an exciting evening of free, live entertainment to enjoy with family and friends. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day of skiing and après-ski fun.
Mood: Rest and Recovery Mode
After a long day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than unwinding and relaxing at one of our hot tubs with a mountain view backdrop. If you’re feeling sore, tired or just looking for a place to rest and rejuvenate, the Health Club is the perfect spot to do so. It offers a variety of amenities, including a heated pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. Our favourite way to experience all the amenities is by a cycle of hot tub, cedar sauna, and steam room mixed with a cold shower if you are feeling brave enough, for the ideal way to boost circulation and maximize your recovery.
After a powder day of skiing, let us suggest our personal trainers who could guide you through a restorative session, or pamper yourself at The Spa with a variety of massages and body treatments
Mood: Ready to Level Up
Located on the 8th floor of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, the Fairmont Gold Lounge offers breathtaking views of the mountain’s surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day on the slopes. But what sets this après-ski experience apart from the rest is the ability to create your own cocktails.
Choose from a variety of premium spirits and mixers, and create the perfect cocktail. Whether you prefer something classic like a Manhattan or something more experimental like a whiskey sour, you will be sure to find something that suits your taste. And for the perfect pairing, indulge in a selection of appetizers carefully-curated by our Executive Chef, Cliff Crawford.
Mood: Craving Comfort
When we think of comfort food Portobello is at the top of our (and every Whistler local’s) minds. Offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for families looking to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes with a menu that features some of the best hot chocolate and pastries in town.
What really sets Portobello apart from the rest is its famous waffles. These are loaded with a variety of delicious options: from classic whipped cream and maple syrup, to more decadent toppings like Nutella peanut butter & jelly, brisket, maple bacon, and chicken — there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Mood: Keep It Cozy
For those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more intimate après-ski experience, look no further than our newly-renovated rooms. These luxurious rooms are the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the mountain. Connecting you to the wilds of Whistler at every touch point, you will be immersed in the true Whistler experience.
Whether you’re looking to play some board games or simply enjoy a nightcap premium bottled Duchess cocktail, these rooms offer the perfect atmosphere for a more low-key après-ski experience.
Of course, one of the most important things to get right for an amazing vacation is your accommodation. Whether a quick weekend getaway, a week-long retreat, or a mid-week getaway, we have the perfect vacation package for you. Explore our offers for the best rates on stays at Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
