Four of the best apres ski bars around the world

The Cardrona Hotel. Photo / Getty Images

1 Cardrona Hotel

Located on the spectacular Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wanaka, this is one of New Zealand's most iconic taverns—and a great spot to stop in foradrink after a day on the slopes. The historic hotel is known for its rustic charm and is rumoured to be the most photographed building in New Zealand. Behind the historic facade, you'll find a bustling beer garden with an atmosphere that won't disappoint.

2 Mooser Wirst, St Anton, Austria

Serving the most beer per square metre in Austria, MooserWirt is located nearthe final stretch of St Anton's piste number one. Described by Playboy magazine as "the mother of all apres ski bars", its longstanding mixmaster DJ Gerhard keeps the party pumping with a mix of Europop and German drinking anthems. Be warned — things can getraucous here.

3 Garibaldi Lift Co., Whistler, British Columbia

If you're looking to "apres and chill", this is the place to be. Sitting above the Whistler gondola building, the Garibaldi Lift Company lounge bar offers some world-class people watching — in winter, see skiers tear down the slopes and in summer, downhill mountain bikers charging through. With live music, fresh DJ sets and legendary monster burgers, we can see why it's so popular. If you visit, you must try the signature drink: a Cowboy Caesar. This Canadian Bloody Mary comes with a steak-spice rim and a beef jerkey garnish.

4 Bar Gyu+, Niseko, Japan

They say the best bars are hard to find, and Bar Gyu+ is no exception. Also known as the "Fridge Door Bar", the entrance is hidden behind a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine. Behind the unassuming facade, you'll find a cosy lounge bar stocked to the brim with rare Japanese whiskies, local craft beers and inventive cocktails. With dapper bartenders in vests and bow ties and jazz music drifting through the space, this is a classy spot to unwind.