The best nightlife and après-ski bars in Val Thorens
Michael King The nightlife in Val Thorens is young and surprisingly vibrant for a purpose-built resort in France. The party reputation is partly due to fact Val Thorens attracts plenty of university ski trips heaving with British students, and there is a Folie Douce for on-the-mountain parties on the Plein Sud piste.
For those in search of a quieter night out, the upmarket hotels and residences house classy bars. And for something a little different, the Igloo Village with bar and restaurant (plus two bedrooms) is at 2,400m, a 30-minute walk from the resort centre.
For further Val Thorens inspiration, see our guides to the resort's best accommodation, restaurants and après ski.
With claims to be the highest British pub in the Alps, the Frog attracts a young crowd. The name might give away this establishment's vibe – expect loud music, table dancing and the traditional Yard of Ale challenge.
Contact: thefrogvt.com
In the upper part of town under the Les Neves apartment block, Le Saloon is one of the most popular après haunts in Val Thorens. There's a party vibe until the early hours, with live music and decent prices for drinks
Contact: saloonbar.com
Le Malaysia
This long-standing club claims to have the largest dance floor in the Alps – all 700 square metres of it. From the outside, Le Malaysia might look ordinary, but inside it expands into a vast late-night club – open from 11pm to 4am every night, it's the last après venue to shut. After a complete renovation for 2023/24, clubbers can expect a new sound system and lighting.
Contact: malaysia-valthorens.com
La Folie Douce Val Thorens
Open daily from 9am until 5pm, the party on La Folie Douce’s huge slopeside terrace kicks off after lunch. DJs are accompanied by live musicians and entertainers, everyone dances and the champagne flows. At 2,600m, the views are spectacular.
Contact: lafoliedouce.com
A laid-back bar great for hanging out in, Crewzer serves beers and burgers from around the world. Run by two locals who are keen freeriders, expect to find alternative and extreme sports films showing on the big screen.
Contact: 00 33 6 74 66 04 75;
