The 10 Best Bars For Apres-Ski In Chamonix France

France doesn’t place much emphasis on bar culture, but the après-ski scene is a different story altogether. The Chamonix bars open before the skiers start to file down from the slopes, and close at a time when the eager might be waking up. We’ve put together this list of the best bars in Chamonix so that you’ll know where to go, either before or after your day on the mountains.

Vertical Cafe & Shop, Chamonix main town

Found in the middle of the Aiguille du Midi lift station is a bar/leisure area/restaurant/shop that’s surprisingly good, despite its location. Before or after your cable car journey, it’s a lovely spot to stop and have a drink. Chances are good that you’ll be in the lift station anyway, and this bar should be on the agenda for an ‘apres-lift’ drink or two.

Opening Hours: Daily, but subject to timetables

Watch out for: The terrace on the plaza

100 Place de l’Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, +33 4 50 54 27 79

Barberousse Chamonix

A vaguely pirate-themed bar, it’s no surprise that it has a fantastic selection of rums. A selection so broad, in fact, that it could almost be called a rum bar. That’s not entirely fair, though, as it’s a versatile spot, serving up cocktails, beers, and food, too. The swashbuckling theme could come off as childish, but it’s done well, and the fun-loving crowd makes the bar into something more than the sum of its parts.

Opening Hours: 6pm-2am daily

Watch out for: The apricot shooter

Barberousse shooter bar, Eric Favre Aéroports Chamonix Taxi, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, +33 4 50 53 71 79

1. The Jekyll

Bar, Pub, Restaurant, Pub Grub, British

This is really two bars, the Jekyll and The Hyde. The Jekyll is lively, musical, and versatile. From 6:30pm it turns into a restaurant, and after dinner transforms back into a late night party venue. Downstairs is The Hyde, but it would be more apt to call it the Hyde-away. It’s cosier, quieter, and more intimate than its partner. Multifaceted and interesting, The Jekyll and The Hyde are sure to offer something for everyone.

Opening Hours: 4pm-2am daily

Watch out for: The steak and Guinness pie