Even if you’re a dedicated snow sports fanatic, we’d wager that your favorite part of any day on the slopes is retiring to the lodge for an après-ski beverage. Whether you spring for an ice cold beer or a warming hot toddy, settling in front of the fireplace after a long day in the cold is always a satisfying activity. If you really want to take your après-ski ritual to the next level this year, check out these six hotel bars with the most beautiful post-skiing views in the world.
Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe/Facebook
The 6 Best Hotel Bars to Warm Your Soul After a Day on the Slopes
1. Bar Edmond at Four Seasons Hotel Megève — Megève, France
Photo: Four Seasons
It doesn’t get more stunning than this. Situated in the French Alps on the Mont d’Arbois ski slopes, Four Seasons Hotel Megève is a modern chalet that delivers the timeless Four Seasons experience that made the name synonymous with luxury. The hotel’s Bar Edmond is a sophisticated place to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes. Stay inside the cozy room and take in the view, or step out onto the terrace and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The Four Seasons always has an excellent bar program, so order your favorite classic cocktail or glass of wine and let the relaxing vibes wash over you.
2. Highlands Bar at the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe — Truckee, California
Photo: Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe has gorgeous surroundings, fantastic slopes nearby, and impeccable food and drink service. After a day of gliding over fresh powder, it’s hard to beat thawing out with a cocktail and plate of boar nachos at the property’s Highland Bar, which is designed with an open format to overlook the hotel lobby. Take a seat in front of a floor-to-ceiling window to enjoy views of California’s side of the Sierras with a drink in hand. Make one of those drinks the Stampede, made with Tanqueray, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, absinthe, and lemon juice. The hotel also has a dedicated après-ski experience around the hotel fire pit with Moët & Chandon sparkling wine and a full raw bar.
3. Lakeview Lounge at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise — Alberta, Canada
Photo: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise/Facebook
This idyllic Canadian property is more than just a pretty face. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is located in UNESCO World Heritage site Banff National Park, and the hotel is known for its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism. When you’ve had enough of the cold and snow, retreat inside to the hotel’s Lakeview Lounge, which looks out onto the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise, and Victoria Glacier. Fairmont is known for its excellent cocktail menus, and Lakeview Lounge is famous for its classic cosmopolitan. If that’s not your thing, sip on the Never Spring — made with mezcal, ginger liqueur, lime, apple, beet and turmeric juice, and gomme syrup — to get your daily dose of vitamins.
4. Prospect at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge — Hunter, New York
Photo: lizprairie via Scribner’s Catskill Lodge/Facebook
The Catskill Mountains have served as a nature escape for New York City residents since the mid-1800s, and the area has experienced a revival in recent years. The site of Scribner’s Catskill Lodge was a grand hotel in the late 1800s, and then was home to Scribner Hollow Motor Lodge in 1966. Now, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge attracts a young, stylish set, whether they come to snowboard across the street at Hunter Mountain or simply want a breath of fresh mountain air. After skiing, hiking, or exploring nearby mountain towns, Prospect is the perfect place to retire following a day in the blustery cold. Take a seat at the bar and sip the M.I.A. (mezcal, Aperol, Meletti, and lime) as you dig into a meal of local steelhead trout or smoked apple butter pork chops.
5. Kulm Country Club at Kulm Hotel St. Moritz — St. Moritz, Switzerland
Photo: Kulm Country Club/Facebook
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has a long history of hospitality, as it’s been serving vacationers for more than 160 years. Switzerland’s first electric light was flipped on here in 1879, and it hosted the opening of the very first Winter Olympics in 1928. Now, the hotel is known for its contemporary comfort and glamorous surroundings. When you’ve had enough skiing and ice skating, the Kulm Country Club is where you want to be. Take in views of the outdoor winter wonderland as you sip a fine glass of wine or satisfying cocktail. There are plenty of classics on the menu, as well as signatures like the Gin Geisha, made with matcha gin, vermouth, lime, and egg white.
6. Fireside Lounge at Hotel Talisa — Vail, Colorado
Photo: Hotel Talisa, Vail/Facebook
While there’s plenty to do in Vail, those who would rather be surrounded by nature than the hustle and bustle should check out the brand new Hotel Talisa. Though the property is a mere five minutes from the restaurants and shopping of downtown, you’re more likely to overhear the birds chirping than boisterous conversation. After skiing or relaxing at the hotel spa, retire to the Fireside Lounge and sink into one of the plush, high-back chairs in front of the fireplace. The views are just as fabulous as the drinks, especially if you attend the Après Everyday celebration. Starting at 3:00 PM, the hotel offers cookies and a build-your-own hot chocolate station, which will warm your bones before the 4:30 PM Champagne sabering and s’mores roast. 