Après All Day: The Best Spots to Unwind After Hitting B.C.’s Slopes

With no shortage of fantastic B.C. mountain resorts where you can tear up the slopes and soak up the breathtaking views, there’s nothing like a day spent skiing or snowboarding with family and friends. But the fun doesn’t stop when you pack up your gear. Gather your group and hit up one of these après ski hot spots to relax, warm up and keep the fun going. —Jeanine Gordon

mallard lounge & terrace, whistler. Nestled in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, this cosy lounge has everything you need to unwind after a day on the mountain. Best: you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy this quintessential après destination. Anyone is welcome to wander into one of Whistler’s grandest hotels for a truly pampered experience. The Mallard Lounge & Terrace boasts a variety of attractive amenities for those who need to rest their weary ski legs (or those who opt to spend the entire day fireside). The best features include fire pits, live entertainment and flights of chocolate from the Chocolate Bar. Sip an expertly mixed signature G&T and snack on flatbreads, meat and cheese boards or the chilled seafood platter for a post-ski indulgence.

seymour’s pub & grill, north vancouver. Worn-out skiers and snowboarders coming off Mount Seymour can rest up before heading home with a stop at Seymour’s Pub & Grill. This snug spot is nestled at the foot of the Second Narrows bridge and is the stomping grounds for those looking to warm up and grab a well-deserved bite to eat. Grab a table near one of the fireplaces, settle in and order from a wide variety of snacks and drinks. We love the braised short rib poutine for sharing, the Exit 22 salad for lighter fare and the prawn and scallop Pad Thai for a hearty meal. Try one of the many B.C. wines by the glass or say cheers to a great day with a great local craft beer on tap.

the observatory, grouse mountain. For Grouse Mountain visitors looking for a luxurious way to end their day on the slopes, The Observatory is a must. An upscale spot for relaxing and dining, it boasts the spectacular views that B.C. is best known for as well as a selection of food and beverage options to satisfy any hungry skier or snowboarder. Chef Jack Chen spoils with a delicious array of bites to share or savour solo. Our favourite pick is the five-course tasting menu that gives diners a bite of the best the restaurant has to offer, including oysters, Ling cod and a custard tart as a sweet finish. Browse the 10-page wine list or opt for the wine-pairing suggestions for the perfect combinations to satisfy your palette and treat yourself after a day of fresh air.

scandinave spa, whistler. For those who crave a more pampered experience after a day on the trails, the Scandinave Spa is a must-visit. Release tension and soothe sore muscles by indulging in the spa’s hydrotherapy baths, which include eucalyptus steam baths, Nordic waterfalls, Finnish saunas and outdoor fireplaces for the ultimate relaxation experience. Tack on a massage treatment as the perfect ending to the perfect day of B.C. ski and snowboard adventuring.