Megève in a Day — Friends' Winter Fun: Ski, Snow & Apéro
A lively one-day winter itinerary for a group of friends: start with pastries, learn the slopes together, share a cheesy mountain lunch, try a guided snowshoe, hit a high-energy après-ski, then enjoy a convivial dinner and optional late-night pub. Pacing is social and flexible with group-friendly venues.
Highlights
- Group half-day ski lesson with ESF Megève
- Shared raclette / hearty alpine lunch
- Guided snowshoe walk in the Mont d'Arbois area
- Après-ski party vibe at La Folie Douce (Mont d'Arbois)
- Dinner at the iconic Flocons de Sel and optional live-music pub
Itinerary
Day 1
High-energy winter day tailored for a group of friends — easy meeting points, shared activities, and options for lively nightlife.
Morning pastries & coffee — fuel up together
Meet in the village for outstanding pastries and strong coffee to kick off the day. Grab shareable bites to eat on the way to the slopes.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a mix of viennoiseries to share — it’s cheaper and lets everyone try different pastries.
- Ask the staff for insulated takeaway cups if you plan to sip while walking to the ski meeting point.
- Sit near the door for quick exits with skis/boots or to reorganize group gear before heading to the slopes.
Group half-day ski lesson + guided warmup (ESF Megève)
Book a 3-hour group lesson with ESF Megève for a social way to sharpen skills together or get comfortable on gentle blues/reds — perfect for mixed-ability groups.
Tips from local experts:
- Tell ESF your group size and levels in advance to request one instructor or two assistants so you can pair up and rotate.
- Meet at the ESF chalet in the village; store boots in a locker at the base station to keep the meeting smooth.
- Buy a half-day lift pass (matin) beforehand or ask about ESF package deals — group discounts often apply.
Hearty alpine lunch — raclette / shared platters
Slow down with a communal raclette or mountain platters made for sharing — ideal for groups to split the bill and linger.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a long table in advance and mention you’re a group of 4–6 so they can prepare shared platters.
- Order a raclette or fondue to share — it's convivial and cheaper per person than individual mains.
- Ask the server for local wines by the carafe or a half-bottle option to keep costs reasonable and the mood social.
Afternoon guided snowshoe walk — mellow mountain views
Take a 2-hour guided snowshoe into quiet trails around Mont d'Arbois for playful team photos and panoramic views — a low-impact, social outdoor option.
Tips from local experts:
- Book via the Office de Tourisme or ask for a small-group guide who knows the best photo spots and safe routes.
- Wear waterproof layers and trekking poles if possible — guides usually provide snowshoe rental but check sizes beforehand.
- Plan a midway hot chocolate break — guides often know a sheltered spot for a quick group snack and photos.
Village breather — stroll around Place de l'Église
Unwind in Megève’s charming central square: window-shop, pop into a local chocolatier, or rest on a bench before après-ski.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to swap wet layers for dry ones — most shops offer quick cloak or locker services if needed.
- Split up briefly to pick souvenirs (cheese, chocolate) and reconvene at a pre-agreed café to keep the group together.
- If someone needs ski-shop fixes (care, boot warmers), there are a couple of local shops around the square that do quick services.
Apéro with a show — La Folie Douce Mont d'Arbois (après-ski vibe)
Catch the lively après-ski atmosphere with DJ sets, dancers or live acts on the terrace — a quintessential social mountain moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early and claim a communal table as groups fill fast; ask staff about reserved zones for larger groups.
- Check the day’s entertainment schedule (DJ set, live act) and aim to be there for the 17:30–18:30 peak for the best vibe.
- Wear a mid-layer rather than bulky jackets; you’ll be dancing/standing and it’s easier to mingle.
Dinner at Flocons de Sel — iconic group dinner (relaxed luxury)
Enjoy a refined alpine dinner at Flocons de Sel — book a table for a celebratory meal with exceptional cooking (inform them you’re a lively group).
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve well in advance and tell them you’re a group of friends who like lively conversation — they can seat you to balance atmosphere and service.
- If your budget varies, ask for a tasting menu and a-la-carte split so some can choose lighter options while others enjoy the full tasting.
- Use the hotel’s cloak/boot room if you want dry space for boots and wet gear while dining comfortably.
Optional late-night pub — unwind with live music or trivia
Cap the night at a friendly local pub or music bar — perfect for group drinks, sing-alongs, or a casual trivia/quiz if on offer.
Tips from local experts:
- Check if the pub runs quiz nights or live music that evening and reserve a corner table for the crew to avoid split seating.
- Bring cash for quick rounds and tip the band if there's live music — bands often play requests for group celebrations.
- If someone needs a taxi back to accommodations, book one from the bar early to avoid long waits after midnight.
