Don’t just ski… ski Whistler!

Whistler Blackcomb ticks all the right boxes. This international ski haunt is one of the largest in the world with over 8,100 acres of snow-covered slopes. 16 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers and more than 200 marked trails make it a skier’s dream resort. If you couple that with Canada’s breath-taking mountain landscape, you’ve got yourself a world-renowned ski destination.

Skiing and tours

For the ultimate ski (or snowboard) experience with zero lift lines, try Heli-skiing. Take a thrilling helicopter ride to the highest peaks – unreachable by normal ski lifts – then hit the slopes and enjoy the endless untouched powder and wide open terrain. There are intermediate, advanced and expert tours so skiers of all abilities can take part in the adventure. Prefer a simpler skiing experience? Excellent Cat Skiing Tours are available for bookings too, allowing you to explore the unknown at a gentler pace.

Snowy adventures

Fancy trying something other than skiing? Whistler offers a whole range of exhilarating activities on the slopes for all levels of ability. Race across the snow on a sled led by excited dogs or enjoy a classic Canadian pastime on skates in Whistler’s Olympic Plaza, or take to the ice all year round at Meadow Park Sports Centre. Try touring the snowy landscape on a snowmobile – no skills needed, only a strong sense of adventure! And for an extra-special snowmobile experience, add a meal at a rustic mountain lodge or a night time tour under the stars. Even more alternative activities are the Whistler Zip-line and Coca-Cola Tube Park that guarantee adrenaline-charged fun for all ages.

Dine on the slopes

When you need to take a break from all the supercharged snow activities, there are plenty of options for gourmet dining. Rest up, refuel and feast in luxury at some of Whistler’s best restaurants. For the taste of fantastically fresh, local flavours such as West Coast salmon and forest herbs, try Aura’s unforgettable seasonal dishes. If a hearty steak is more your style, Whistler’s Sidecut has a succulent variety of regional surf and turf, cooked to culinary perfection in an infrared grill. But if it’s the perfect bottle of wine you’re after then choose from the expertly curated wine list at Il Caminetto di Umberto.

Don’t forget après!

The excitement’s not over when you hang up your skis; Whistler Blackcomb has an unforgettable après-ski scene you don’t want to miss. Bar Oso is the ultimate all-round hangout with hand-crafted cocktails, an inspired selection of wines and a profusion of small plates and tapas. For a greater focus on Whistler’s best wines, visit Basalt Wine & Salumeria. You’ll find excellent local and international wines by the glass, as well as decadent selection of cured meats and cheeses.

If you’re looking to treat yourself with a truly exceptional evening, then The Mallard Lounge is a must. Referred to as ‘the gem of the Chateau’, visit here to try The Mallard’s famous martini’s or a warming cocktail while listening to live, word-class musicians.

Into the night…

When ‘après’ becomes night, there are a few vibrant places that will keep the party going. Garfinkel’s nightclub is undoubtedly one of the top party spots in Whistler. With music, dancefloors and wild contests, it’s guaranteed good fun. For a more casual night out, try Moe Joe’s where live music and DJs provide you with a chilled but fun-filled atmosphere to party in. And you just can’t go wrong with Tommy Africa’s – one of Whistler’s longest running nightclubs boasting the most vibrant dancefloor in the region!

Hangover cures

After days jam-packed with activities and lots of indulgences in Canadian food and wine, you will be in need of some serious relaxation. The Scandinave Spa is one of Whistler’s most luxurious. The resort nestles into the mountainside and it is easy to spend an entire day trying out the different Scandinavian baths. Relax in the outdoor hot pools with snow surrounding you and views of Whistler’s mountain valleys for an unforgettable experience. Hotels in Whistler also offer beautiful spas where you can relax in a hot tub with a drink. The Fairmont, Westin and Four Seasons hotels boast some of the best.

Finally, who can’t resist some serious retail therapy? You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping opportunities as Whistler is a shopper’s paradise. But it goes without saying that The Village is the best place to unburden your wallet. With everything from fashion and beauty to candy and sports gear, The Village’s shops can cater for everyone. Even better, you can enjoy the comfortable neighbourhood vibe that The Village is famous for while you shop, recharge and get ready for another round on the slopes.

It’s not surprising that Whistler Blackcomb has been named No. 1 Overall Ski Resort in North America for the third year running. From snowy adventures to spa sessions, there’s so much to love. And to top it off, Canada will celebrate its 150th birthday next year. So it really is the perfect time to go.

Kathryn Munro is Managing Director at Canadian Affair.

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