Canada is, for many people, the ultimate ski destination. Whether its quantity and quality of snow, the mountainside conditions and facilities, or even the in-resort features and standards; Canadian ski resorts are unbeatable on virtually all fronts. And none more so than Whistler. The spectacular mountain scenery draped in several feet of light, fluffy snow, is spotted with pine trees. At dusk the small mountain resort glows with soft lights, and the occasional pool is lit up a bright mouthwash shade of blue. From November until late Spring Canada ski holidays are a snow fanatic's paradise...
Ski Whistler
Whistler Ski Resort is split across two mountains; Whistler and Blackcomb. As you'd expect there are well-maintained pistes for all abilities, and lots of them! In addition there are tree runs, steep couloirs and the new backcountry experience of the Flute Bowl. There's more than enough to keep you going for a week, trust me! The ski school is top-notch and ideal way for kids and adults alike to learn or improve their technique, plus for advanced skiers they offer off-piste guiding. All ages from 3 years and upwards are taken.
Snow Adventures
Whistler is a haven not just for skiers but for all snow lovers. Snowmobile adventures and heli-skiing can arranged for adrenaline fuelled fun, or, for more peaceful pursuits, guided snowshoeing tours and cross-country skiing trails amongst tranquil and breath-taking alpine scenery. A must is the 'Peak 2 Peak' gondola linking Whistler Mountain's Roundhouse Lodge with Blackcomb Mountain's Rendezvous Restaurant. The incredible (year-round) journey offers jaw-dropping views - especially from the glass-bottomed gondolas! Whistler is a kind of nature playground year-round; through the summer months the forest trails are a hiking and biking paradise. Those in search of adventure and adrenaline can make the most of suspension bridges strung between the pine trees, and try zip-lining from treetop base to base.
Whistler Childcare
If you're travelling with kids in tow there's childcare available for children aged 18 to 48 months at three different locations. Where Whistler goes that extra mile is in offering free pagers so you know all is ok and can fully enjoy your days skiing with total piece of mind.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler
Accommodation generally is of a good standard in Canada; hotel accommodation is notably more popular than the European chalet style. One of my favourite hotels from which to ski is the Four Seasons Resort in Whistler; ideally located at the base of the Blackcomb Mountain with shuttle access to both the village and Whistler Mountain. Once you've finished a long day's skiing, there's a heated outdoor pool and a spa in which to rejuvenate. The hotel has a fantastic in-house restaurant called Sidecut serving the freshest seafood and juicy steaks all with glorious views over the snowy and pine forested mountains.
Whistler Village
If you feel like venturing out in the evening, Whistler village has restaurants to suit more-or-less all styles, and decent après ski scene too. One of our favourite restaurants is Rim Rock Café which specialises in fish and game - the oysters are especially good! If you need any snow gear then head to McCoo's; George McConkey is reputed to be the best ski boot fitter around! (Make sure you book an appointment though - George is a busy man!) Non ski-related activities are aplenty in the village too; from cinemas and shopping to ice-skating, swimming, and indoor climbing.