Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America and is often regarded as the best ski resort in the world. With biking and golf in the summer and skiing in the winter, Whistler is a year round leisure destination filled with excellent restaurants, bustling bars, wonderful hotels and super friendly staff.
The vast ski area is made up of two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, which are linked by the speedy PEAK 2 PEAK gondola. There is over 8100 acres of diverse terrain packed with steeps, chutes, bowls, glades, groomers, and more! Whistler caters exceptional well for all types of skier with dedicated areas for beginners, long cruisers and tree runs for intermediates and black diamond slopes for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
After celebrating its 50th anniversary last tear the resort announced exciting news of a massive 5 year, $345 million transformation project named ‘Renaissance’ which will boost Whistler’s year round offerings even further! Whistler is a favourite amongst the Iglu Ski team and after a trip there in March 2017 I can see why. I’ve never come across such an extensive ski resort, Whistler has everything you could possibly want from a ski holiday – all cuisines, all winter activities, all mountain terrains, loads of bars and clubs and a large variety of holiday accommodations. This together with the short transfer from Vancouver makes it the perfect ski destination.
Fresh tracks on Blackcomb Glacier
1. Ski Peak to Creek and celebrate with a Ceasar
Conquer Whistler Blackcomb’s longest ski run – the 11 km Peak to Creek (the slope runs from Whistler peak to Creekside). To tackle this beast from Whistler Peak take Upper Peak-To-Creek (blue) run which winds right all the way down to Creekside. Celebrate with ribs and a Ceasar cocktail at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ at the end of the run! A Ceasar is a Canadian take on a Bloody Mary, made with vodka, clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco and seasoning, often garnished with celery, pickles, bacon, olives and even a fried shrimp or onion ring!
Sunset on the last run at Creekside
2. Apres at Merlins
For the best après in town head to Merlin’s at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. When the sun is shining you can enjoy beers on the terrace, otherwise grab a table inside to experience the awesome local live band, The Hairfarmers. You can’t have a trip to Whistler without sampling Merlin’s mountain high nachos and jugs of cocktails. The bar is open for lunch, dinner and drinks from 11am until late. Families are welcome until 10pm. Other top bars include GLC, Dubh Linn Gate and Longhorn in Whistler Village or Dusty’s at Creekside.
Merlin's bar at Blackcomb. Photo: Whisterblackcomb.com
3. Ride the Peak 2 Peak gondola
This epic piece of machinery links the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain for easy access between each peak. The 4.4 km stretch takes approximately 11 minutes and skiers benefit from a cabin coming in every 49 seconds. The ride treats you to a spectacular showcase of stunning mountain views, forests, village views and the beautiful gem-like lakes.
4. Discover culinary delights from all over the world
Most package ski holidays to Canada are on a bed and breakfast or a self-catering board basis leaving guests to try out the many restaurants in Whistler Blackcomb for lunch and dinner. I’ve never seen so many food places in one ski resort! Whistler is perfect for foodies and people that like to eat out frequently. Food choices include burger joints, French style fondues, pizza, sushi, fish, steak, Spanish cuisine, Mexican, grills, Indian and more.
Popular eateries include Merlin’s Bar & Grill, HandleBar, Garibaldi Lift Company, The Mexican Corner, Sushi Village, Earls, StonesEdge Kitchen, Basalt Wine & Salumeria, Bar OSO and Dubh Linn Gate Pub Inn.
You can't leave Whistler without trying a Ceasar cocktail
5. Powder Day? Head to Harmony on Whistler
If you are lucky enough to wake up to fresh snow, throw your ski gear on and ski towards the Harmony 6 Express chairlift on Whistler Mountain and spend the morning cruising the snow filled bowls, steeps and groomers. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Fitzsimmons valley and surrounding peaks at the top of the Harmony ridge before your decent down the mountain in fresh powder. There is a huge amount of terrain here to play with here, start with following Harmony Ridge (blue) for a first gentle run and then make your way up to the 7 Harmony Horseshoes (black) for some steep and deep routes. It’s easy to lap these runs thanks to the new Express chairlift which takes 6 minutes from bottom to top.
Alternatively, if it is still snowing and visibility is poor, head to Crystal Ridge on Blackcomb and ski between the tree lined routes for better clarity. Take a look at the Whistler Wonder Routes for more self-guiding options.
So much terrain to play with on a powder day
6. Have fun with the family
There’s fun for the whole family at Whistler, no matter what your skiing level is. From dedicated family areas, to brilliant ski schools, to activities the whole family can enjoy together. Look out for the ‘Family Certified’ gold stars across the mountain. Family activities include:
- Outdoor adventure play lands – Magic Castle on Blackcomb and Tree Fort on Whistler
- Dedicated family areas – The Emerald Zone on Whistler and the Magic Chair on Blackcomb
- Coca cola tube park by the Excalibur Gondola at Whistler Village
- Family private ski lessons
- Fire and Ice show every Sunday at 6:30pm
- Ice skating at the Olympic Plaza in Whistler Village
- Swimming at Meadow Park Sports Centre
- Snowmobile tours
- Horse drawn sleigh rides
Favourite hotels in Whistler include Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Listel Hotel and Crystal Lodge Suites. Enquire for winter 2017/18 package holidays to Canada.
