In Austria, the hills are alive with the sound of music. In NSW, the slopes of Thredbo will soon be alive with an avant-garde après ski adventure.
G.H. Mumm and La Folie Douce have teamed up to turn Top2Bottom race week into a series of high altitude festivities that would give the Alpine resorts of France, Switzerland and Italy a run for their money. From 6-8 August, the champagne house and European performance group will bring French gastronomy, a cabaret-style revue, and a crazy after-ski clubbing atmosphere to the resort.
If you haven't brushed up on your French recently, “la folie douce” translates to “sweet madness.” That should give you a hint of what you're in for at one of their out-there snow parties. DJs, singers and dancers will transport crowds at Thredbo's Alpine Resort Poolside Terrace every day from 3-6pm, with a mix of cabaret and street theatre that pushes the limits of both party and performance.
Those who prefer fine dining to dancing will be treated to a series of high-end culinary experiences. Celebrity chef Josue Lopez from Queensland's GOMA will be on hand to teach a champagne and caviar masterclass. He has also created an exclusive menu for the occasion using fresh, contemporary and local ingredients - paired with G.H Mumm's prestige cuvée, of course.
G.H. Mumm ambassador Chris Sheehy will also present a champagne degustation, while Thredbo's most adventurous tipplers can visit the pop-up champagne bar at Kareela Hutte, located on Australia's longest run at an altitude of 1810 m.
The weather may be cold, but with G.H. Mumm and La Folie Douce on the job, Thredbo will be hot. Just remember to save the champagne for after the slopes.