Rating out of 5
Flight time
8 hours to Vancouver (approx).
Transfer time
2 hours.
Lift queues
This is one of the only North American resorts where queues are a problem. Come in early December or January to avoid them.
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APH Resort Guides at a Glance:
Whistler, Canada
Overview
Probably Canada’s most famous resort. With more skiable terrain and more vertical drop than any other North American resort,
it’s the one that everyone talks about. The flip-side of this, though, is that it often gets crowded - especially on powder days.
Terrain
There’s a whopping 7,000 acres of skiable terrain to choose from, serviced by 33 lifts. It’s all spread over two mountains -
Whistler and Blackcomb - with something for everyone. You could ski here for 10 years and never get bored.
Recommended run
Experts should head to Flute and Piccolo bowls, where you can experience steep backcountry terrain, without leaving the resort boundary.
Intermediates should try the Blackcomb Glacier, where you’ll get a 3 mile run through wide open soft snow.
Ski-in, ski-out?
For luxury, try the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, at the foot of Blackcomb’s slopes; or the Westin Resort & Spa, at the foot of Whistler.
Other ski-in, ski-out accommodation available.
Cost of living
Whistler is expensive for North America - closer to European prices - and it’s hard to find a seat at lunchtime, so eat early.
For on-slope eating try the Chic Pea, near the top of the Garbanzo lift, or the Harmony Hut, at the top of the Harmony lift.
Nightlife
There’s tons to do here at night - whether you want a more sophisticated meal or beers, burgers and dancing.
The Garibaldi Lift Company, and Dubh Linn Gate Irish pub are both worth checking out. For dancing, try Garfinkel’s and Moe Joe’s.
Alternative activities
Outdoor Adventures (www.adventureswhistler.com) runs snowshoe tours on Whistler mountain, which give you a completely different view of the place.
If you’re after something more relaxing, there are various spa centres to try, and an eight-screen cinema in Whistler Village.
Family friendly
Yes indeed. The ski schools here are excellent and the Kids Adventure Zones will keep youngsters occupied, with enchanted forests,
castles and forts for them to explore.
Findout more about Whistler at Ultimate-Ski.com.
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