Chalet Spinale holds a special place in my après-ski escapades, a dazzling haven perched atop the Spinale gondola. The Dolomites stretch majestically before you, and the atmosphere is a seamless blend of chic indulgence and the raw beauty of the Alps.
A Morning Retreat with a Dolomitic Panorama
Each morning, I found solace in soaking up the view, letting my stomach settle from the motion sickness of the shuttle and gondola journey. This morning ritual is a shared experience with fellow enthusiasts – Italians, skiers, and pedestrians alike. By 11 am, the deck buzzed with fellow Italians—some skiers, others pedestrians—savoring the bluebird day with espresso or bombardino.
Location: Discovering the Gem
Situated at the summit of the Spinale gondola, Chalet Spinale is also easily accessible from the Groste side. Follow beginner blue run 60 down, take the Boch chairlift (number 41) on your left, and descend intermediate red run 73. Choose from beginner blue 80, blue 81, or blue 76 down to 40 Nube d’Oro chairlift, guiding you back up to the Spinale pinnacle. With skis lining the exterior and music resonating, the location is unmistakable.
You can also ski down from the base of Groste using the beginner blue 79 run, which starts close to the Groste gondola running under the bridge. Be aware when I was there, the beginning of the run was narrow running between some rock formations and a little icy, so be careful.
Days and Time: When to Revel
While the DJ kicks off at 1 pm daily, there are usually a couple people dancing by 2pm, and the peak crowd usually assembles around 3:15 pm. If you want to claim a table for your group, I would suggest coming on the early side. Spinale gondola ceasing operations at 4:30 pm, if that’s how you want to get home. To maximize après-ski time, consider hopping over to LAB Après Ski around 4 pm.
Regarding popularity, weekends during the regular season tend to draw the most visitors. In my Madonna di Campiglio stay between Dec 24-29, there were après skiers and a DJ every day, but the crowd swelled as younger skiers replaced the Christmas families as New Year’s approached.
Entry Fee and ID: Casual Elegance without Formalities
In stark contrast to the Val Thorens’ après-ski scene at La Folie Douce, Chalet Spinale has no bouncers, entry fees, or ID checks.
Vibe: Glamour and Chill
Chalet Spinale resonates with a distinct, bougie air. A reflection of Madonna di Campiglio’s glamorous reputation, the venue attracts a crowd adorned in furs and moon boots, obviously at après ski for the vibes. Even the skiers are all sleekly clad in all black tight ski pants with suspenders, mock turtleneck sweaters, and Moncler jackets. The panoramic views, coupled with a diverse musical selection spanning electronic, older American hits, and Italian tunes, create an atmosphere that’s unmistakably Italian. There are no doubts in your mind you are in Italy when you hear the remix of famous 80’s Luccio Battisti hit “Con il Rosa Nastro” which unites the crowd in a harmonious chorus. The dance floor, initially characterized by graceful swaying, evolves into lively celebrations, especially as the New Year’s influx adds youthful exuberance.
Cost of Drinks: Indulge in Style
Sip your drinks in style purchased from either the plastic igloo, the back terrace hut, or indoors. Prosecco glasses cost 5 euros, while a bottle of prosecco is priced at 30 euros. Other options include:
- Espresso: 2 Euro
- Cappuccino: 3 Euro
- Hot Chocolate: 5 Euro
- Bombardino: 5 Euro
- Calimero (Bombarino with a shot of espresso): 6 Euro
- Glass of Wine: 5 Euro
- Mineral Water (0.5L): 2.20 Euro / (1L): 3.50 Euro
- Campari Soda: 4 Euro
- Spritz: 7 Euro
- Draft Beer (Small): 4 Euro / (Medium): 6 Euro
- Long Cocktail: 10 Euro / 15 Euro
When purchasing drinks indoors, join the line for payment at the cashier on the left (see image below) before handing the receipt to the bartender on the right hand side. Be aware that unlike the American system, there is no ticket being printed on the server side, so you must hand your receipt to them first in order for them to start fulfilling your order. The first time we tried to purchase drinks here, my friend and I were confused why the bartenders wouldn’t pay attention to us.
Restrooms: A Quick Stop
Navigating the restrooms during the bustling après-ski hours is surprisingly convenient and free. Beyond the sliding glass doors in the bar area, stairs lead to a downstairs enclave housing six or seven stalls. Despite occasional queues, the multiple facilities ensure swift movement, ensuring you spend more time reveling and less time waiting.
Getting Home: Navigating the Slopes
As the après-ski celebration winds down, the question of the journey home arises. For those destined for the Spinale base, multiple advanced black or intermediate red run options are available. My visit coincided with warm weather followed by a cold spell, I think the runs on Spinale were skied off by end the of the day, or even icy. Those less confident in their skiing abilities can seamlessly opt for the gondola ride home, there is no shame in staying safe. A word of caution: if equipped with a 2, 3, or 4-hour ski pass, anticipate a scan upon exit.
If the call of the Groste base or the allure of LAB Après Ski beckons, the descent unfolds through intermediate red slope 73 to 77. Alternatively, veer off from 73 onto beginner blue slopes 80, 81, or 76, eventually merging onto slope 78. A note of caution: slope 78 can pose challenges with its flat stretches, potentially requiring a bit of hiking, particularly if you decide to steer into the even flatter beginner blue 76 and 66 runs.
In essence, Chalet Spinale transcends the typical après-ski experience. It’s a symphony of alpine allure, where glamour meets the thrill of the slopes. From morning contemplations on the terrace to the rhythmic dance of après-ski enthusiasts, Chalet Spinale beckons all who seek an extraordinary blend of mountain charm and Italian elegance.
Here 4 the Apres 
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