Discover Whistler - A Year-Round Mountain Paradise
Image: Whistler BC Credit: Shutterstock.com/David Buzzard
Not many places can boast of being great vacation destinations in the summer and winter. Nestled in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is a premier travel destination offering breathtaking natural beauty, world-class activities, and luxurious accommodations.
Whether you choose to visit during the summer months or when there's plenty of powder suitable for skiing, the small resort village is an ideal vacation destination for relaxation and calorie-burning activities.
The village has a welcoming atmosphere with eateries and various retailers available to ensure that you have a memorable stay. Even if all you do while you're here is stroll through the enchanting small streets, you'll be reinvigorated to take on the challenges of city life once your vacation is over.
Image: Snowboarding in Whistler BC Credit:Shutterstock.com/Juana Nunez
Better known globally for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding in the winter, Whistler, North America's largest ski resort, transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts during the summer, making it a year-round paradise for adventurers and vacationers.
It's no wonder that the resort village has won many design awards and has consistently been voted one of North America's top destinations.
Winter Wonderland
Image: Chairlift in Whistler BC Credit: Shutterstock.com/EB Adventure Photography
Whistler is synonymous with winter sports, thanks to its two massive ski areas at Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, more than 200 marked trails, and 16 alpine bowls, the resort caters to everyone, from beginners to seasoned experts.
The ride up to the peak of the mountains in the gondolas also adds to the excitement with the breathtaking panoramic views that allow you to get a vivid view of the winter wonderland.
Non-skiers can enjoy a variety of other winter activities, including snowmobiling and ice skating at the Olympic Plaza. For those seeking an additional thrill, the Whistler Sliding Centre offers a chance to experience bobsledding on actual Olympic tracks.
Image: Skiing in Whistler BC Credit: Jaromir Vanek
If you prefer something less strenuous, consider a guided snowshoeing tour, which allows you to explore the woods and spot birds and animals in the snow-covered trees. All you need to do is rent a pair of snow shoes.
Families will love tubing at the Bubly Tube Park, while couples can embark on romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow-draped forests.
Summer Splendor
Image: Whistler Village Credit: Pierre Leclerc
As the weather gets warmer, the snow-capped mountains give way to Whistler's lush alpine meadows, and towering peaks reveal a new playground. Mountain biking enthusiasts flock to the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, one of the best in the world, offering trails for all skill levels. Hikers can explore scenic routes like the High Note Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Whistler is also a haven for water sports. Visitors can paddleboard or kayak on Alta Lake or enjoy fishing and canoeing in the River of Golden Dreams. Private guided tours are available to ensure you get the most out of your adventure.
Golfers can tee off at the Arnold Palmer-designed Whistler Golf Club or the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, offering stunning mountain backdrops. For a more leisurely pace, the pedestrian-only Whistler Village is ideal for shopping, dining, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Image: Fairmont Resort Credit: Shutterstock.com/David Buzzard
Where to Stay? - Fairmont Chateau Whistler
The Fairmont Chateau Whistler stands out as the premier choice for luxury accommodation. Part of the collection of Fairmont hotels (if you're thinking about the Fairmont Hotel in Monte Carlo, yes, that's the same collection), the beautiful hotel is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. It offers a unique ski-in/ski-out access during winter and is steps away from hiking and biking trails in summer.
Guests can enjoy elegantly appointed rooms, an award-winning golf course at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, and a full-service spa with alpine-inspired treatments.
Image: Whistler BC Credit: Shutterstock.com/David Buzzard
The hotel features multiple dining options, including the renowned Wildflower Restaurant under the leadership of Chef Cliff Crawford and the Mallard Lounge, where guests can unwind with a signature cocktail by the beautiful fireplace.
How to Get to there
Whistler is conveniently accessible from major cities in Canada and the United States. The nearest major airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles) south of the resort village.
Travelers going to Whistler via Vancouver should plan to stop by the beautiful city to enjoy some of its treats (more on Vancouver soon) before heading over to Whistler.
From Vancouver, travelers can enjoy a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99). It offers breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and Howe Sound. The journey typically takes about two hours, but the gorgeous scenery will make it appear a lot shorter.
If driving is out of the question for you while you're on vacation, shuttle services, and private transfers provide comfortable transportation directly from the airport or downtown Vancouver to Whistler. If you're looking to arrive in style, consider a helicopter transfer, which has the added benefit of a shorter trip while providing unparalleled views of the rugged mountain terrain.
