The Party Animal Visits...France
Posted Wed 27th JulyYes, ‘tis I! I’m very grateful that you were so willing to welcome me back for another tale of my travels across the Skiing World (and beyond, mentally.)
This time, it’s off to the infamous La Folie Douce in Val D’Isere, one of the most ‘instagrammable’ places which the slopes have to offer.
Before I recount my experience of La Folie to you, here’s a little background to where and what exactly it is. With a number of bases across France, the chain of restaurants and bars has been, quote “amazing people” since 1980. Several of La Folie’s outlets are based in France’s skiing quarters, including one in Meribel, with dancers, DJs, music and overpriced drinks available for anyone’s enjoyment. The difference? La Folie Douce isactually on the slopes, meaning you ski in, take your boots and off and rave the night away at some serious altitude.
Anyway, I decided to head there at a more reasonable early afternoon time, as the last lift back down to my chalet was at 4.30pm - which meant I would be heading home a lot earlier than I would have liked. Regardless, I planned to enjoy my time there.
The first thing to say about arriving is how ridiculously popular this place is. It’s no complete surprise of course, as from the pictures available online and the sheer number of people who have encouraged me to go, you know they’ll be there in their numbers. For some, the crowded nature of La Folie might become irritating, though I feel it’s essential to the atmosphere of the venue.
Not that you needed more noise, of course. With a resident DJ blaring out anything from Grime to Indie music from lunchtime into the evening, it’s safe to say that the place was absolutely buzzing - and I’d recommend it as a MUST for anyone in a resort which houses a branch of La Folie Douce.
Browsing the menu, I decided to buy just the one drink - for two reasons. Firstly, a small bottle of beer sets you back around €10. Secondly, I still had to ski back down to the top of the Gondola - so really I had no choice but to behave.
Still, you can’t beat the views from the balcony of La Folie - it’s a breathtaking sight which I’d recommend to just about anybody.
The Party Animal’s Rating: 9/10
Next Time: For my final trip, I’m off to Zermatt in Switzerland.