Apres Ski in the French Ski Resort of Chamonix

Number of Bars: 40
Number of Clubs: 4

Chamonix has a buzzing après ski scene that is developing a reputation to match that of the excellent skiing.

Being a town with a traditional yet cosmopolitan atmosphere it's no wonder Chamonix can offer après ski to suit all tastes. Options vary from venues which cater for the party crowd who want to carry on drinking late into the night - to more intimate establishments which welcome those wishing to swap cosy ski stories in more chilled out surroundings with good food. There's even a casino!

The most direct après ski usually consists of a few drinks in the town centre bars where in Spring you'll find the outdoor tables full of skiers. The Café la Terrasse is a nice place to stop for a drink on the way back to base from the slopes! It offers a perfect chance to relax and meet up alongside stunning views of Mont Blanc – often with live music.

The entire pedestrianised street of Rue du Molin is host to an array of bars and restaurants with many run by British ex-pats. Recommended bars include the Irish Coffee, the Brasserie du Rond Point and the Chamouny. Directly opposite the train station at the Gustavia hotel you'll find Chambre 9 (or Chambre Neuf!) another popular après ski hang-out – often host to guest DJ's and live music.

For more straightforward bars head to Mill Street and the Bumble Bee. If you simply must have your daily fix of Guinness, a cosy and friendly spot is the O'Byrne Pub, which is situated on Rue du Lyret.

Other main players include The Expedition a small cosy bar with a great chill out area and The Queen Vic pub (no, not that one!) with the obligatory pool tables, TV screens and Beamish on tap!

Dick's Tea Bar is renowned for its themed parties (fancy dress, beach etc!) and a buzzing crowd.

Nightlife aficionados have an array of choice. For live music check out Arbat or the Blue. Bar du Moulin and Bar'd Up occasionally feature live music as well. Some of the main meeting spots are the Choucas Video Bar (with its squishy sofas – great for late night partying without the big dance club feel) and Driver which always guarantees a packed crowd.

For serious party animals check out the Irish influenced Jeckl and Hyde, the Ice Rock Café, Cantina and the latest hot-spot Wild Wallabies Bar – a British and Scandinavian mix. Other bars include Privilege, TOF and BPM.

If gambling is your scene the casino is situated downtown and a dress jacket and tie are essential.