La Folie Douce Val Thorens - the highest Folie

The Val Thorens Folie Douce sits at 2,600m, making it the highest in the brand's portfolio. Cabaret performers in sequins and ski boots, DJs spinning to snow-dusted crowds, and the chaos of champagne showers define this uniquely French après-ski institution.

What to do there

4 things to do

1. 1 Party Where a Chef Started With 'Two Bits of String' History · Price: moderate

   Before the DJ drops, understand the origin story. In 1974, Luc Reversade - a ski instructor who hated the rigid French dining scene - opened a mountain hut with 'two bits of string and a dream' (his words). He threw away the menus, played music that shocked traditional skiers, and served fondue in conditions that would horrify health inspectors. Forty years later, there are 9 Folie Douces across the Alps, 3,500 seasonal staff, and the concept of 'French après-ski' exists because of this one guy. Ask any staff member about Luc.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Escape to La Fruitière Upstairs Wine · Price: moderate · Optional

   If the terrace madness is too much, find the stairs to La Fruitière restaurant upstairs. This is where Folie Douce hides its proper wine program. Ask for Savoie wines by the glass - they stock local producers like Cave de Chautagne and Domaine des Rocailles. The noise from below is muffled. The views are better. The wines are the same ones the chaos downstairs is spraying on each other. Budget €15-25 for a serious tasting while the party continues beneath you.

   Log Memory
3. 3 Survive the Highest Folie Douce Adventure · Free

   Val Thorens Folie Douce sits at 2,600m - the highest in the portfolio. Blue run access only - you need intermediate skiing skills to reach it. The altitude changes everything: the music feels louder and the views are ridiculous. Find the glass-roofed terrace section and look toward Mont Blanc while performers in sequins and ski boots do their thing. This is French culture at its most gloriously absurd.

   Log Memory
4. 4 Catch the Last Lift or Walk Home Adventure · Free

   The lifts close around 4:30pm. La Folie Douce staff will start loudly reminding everyone around 4pm. Ignore them at your peril - if you miss the last lift, you're either skiing down in deteriorating light (dangerous) or walking for hours. The party energy peaks at 3pm and the smart move is to leave at 4pm, slightly buzzed, with the afternoon sun turning the snow pink. That's the memory you want, not a rescue sled.

   Log Memory

Insider tips

• Blue run access only - intermediate skiing required to reach

• The upstairs wine bar offers sanctuary from the main party

• Wednesday "white party" is legendary - wear white for champagne spray