Spanning eight countries and 1,200 kilometres, the Alps are the heart of the European ski scene. This epic mountain range is dusted with snow in the winter and speckled with meadows come summer. But it’s the former that really draws crowds here.

Keen skiers head to these colossal mountains every year, seeking the thrills of the pistes. But there’s so much more to the Alps than just skiing or snowboarding. If you’re enjoying a winter break, there are plenty of great après ski activities to try out when you finish on the slopes.

Take a husky ride

There’s no better way to explore the mountains than on a sledge pulled by a team of huskies. Either opt for a guided ride and sit back and enjoy the scenery or try your hand at ‘mushing’ and guide your own pack of dogs through the snow. Some companies even offer an overnight husky expedition for the truly adventurous.

Try tobogganing

Indulge your inner child and try tobogganing down the mountainside. There are hundreds of runs across the Alps, ranging from gentle slopes to white-knuckle tracks. If you’re staying in Val Thorens, there’s an impressive 6km run (the longest in Europe) which can take up to 45 minutes to travel down. If you’re feeling brave, it stays open at night so you can slalom down in the dark, guided by the lights from the resort below.

Soak in a hot tub

If you’ve been hitting the slopes hard, unwind and rest your aching muscles when it comes to evening time. Soaking in a hot tub against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains is the ultimate indulgence, with the warm water providing the perfect contrast to the chilly alpine air. Your tired arms and legs will thank you the next day too when you’re revitalised and ready to hit the powder again.

Indulge in local cuisine

Skiing and snowboarding all day can work up an appetite, so it’s a good job the Alps offer amazing dining options. You’ll find tasty dishes like tartiflette and raclette on the menu and it’s definitely worth sampling a cheese fondue. And there’s no need to feel guilty about over-indulging – you’ll work it all off on the slopes the next day. But dining on a ski holiday isn’t just about the food. Many of the best restaurants are situated high up in the mountains, offering unrivalled views while you wine and dine.

Party the night away

The nightlife in most ski resorts is excellent, with plenty of options to suit all tastes. Many holidaymakers head out for a drink or two to swap stories of the slopes with fellow skiers.

Looking for somewhere particularly lively? Chamonix is our top pick. There’s everything from intimate wine bars with cosy log fires to nightclubs, live music venues and even a casino.

Can’t wait to check out the Alps’ après ski scene?