The Insider’s Guide To Whistler 2018-19
The Insider’s Guide To Whistler 2018-19
The Canadian resort of Whistler is known around the world as a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. But away from the slopes, there are tons of activities to enjoy and experience, meaning a vacation in Whistler is a great idea (even if you don’t ski)! While you’ll find plenty of bars in which to enjoy a post-slopes beverage, there’s an abundance of adrenalin-fueled activities and experiences that provide an entertaining alternative.
With the winter season running from November 22nd through May 2019, we take a look at the things to do and places to stay.
8 Learn to Axe Throw like a Lumberjack
Head to Forged Axe Throwing and apres-ski like a lumberjack, trying your hand at Canada’s exciting alternative to a darts league. This extremely entertaining activity is a great way to round off a day on the slopes and is a great alternative to traditional boozy apres-ski. Don’t worry if you’ve never picked up an axe before, the Forged team will provide all the training and guidance you need to perfect your aim and learn a trick shot or two. Prepare for things to get competitive as you fight for bragging rights as axe throwing champion.
7 Wine and Dine in an Ice Cave
The Whistler dining scene never fails to surprise. New for 2018/19, The Blue Room package is the result of a partnership between the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler and Head-Line Mountain Holidays. Diners will enjoy a helicopter ride to an ice cave, before heading on a guided tour around the spectacular natural ice sculptures. Once inside the Blue Room, Four Seasons’ Executive Sous Chef David Baarschers will serve up a five-course meal that truly celebrates the very best of British Columbia.
6 Embark on a Steak, Snowmobile and Log Cabin Tour
Round off a day of adventure with the Canadian Wilderness Adventures’ snowmobile and steak tour. You’ll take in the stunning Whistler backcountry by snowmobile on your way to a rustic log cabin on Sproatt Mountain where you’ll tuck into a Canadian three-course steak dinner.
5 Slide like an Olympian
The 2010 Winter Olympics may be over, but the venue for the sliding events means you’ll be able to relive the thrills and spills of the bobsleigh or skeleton. The centre is offering bobsleigh and skeleton experiences between December 14th, 2018 and March 31st, 2019, meaning you can experience the world’s fastest ice track for yourself. Reaching speeds of up to 125 km/hr, this is an unforgettable bucket list activity!
4 Embrace Whistler Culture
For a more sedate apres-ski experience, head to the many cultural hotspots around Whistler such as the Audain Art Museum. Located right by the village, this iconic building houses a permanent collection of artworks from British Columbia. A visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre also comes highly recommended, celebrating the history and culture of local First Nations. Still thirsty for Whistler history? Make a beeline for the Whistler Museum and view a remarkable variety of exhibits, historical photographs and even showcasing an original gondola cabin!
3 Ride the Zipline
Take a bird’s eye view over some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world at one of two zip lining companies in Whistler. Ziptrek Ecotours boasts the longest zipline in North America at over 2 km long and their Twilight Tour is particularly popular with those skiing by day. Superfly Ziplines also provide plenty of opportunities to view Whistler from a different perspective. There’s even an option to ride side by side with your friends!
2 Try Dog Sledding
There’s something totally magical about hurtling through the Callaghan Valley behind an exuberant team of gorgeous Arctic snow dogs. Your experienced guides will take you through snow-frosted forests, even giving you the chance to learn the commands and ‘mush’ your own dog team.
1 Hole-Up in a Cozy Hotel
Whether you’re seeking 5-star luxury or a self-catering base, Whistler has plenty of choices when it comes to accommodation. Here’s our pick when it comes to value, luxury and views.
Value: The Pangea Pod Hotel has somewhat redefined shared accommodation since opening its doors earlier this summer. Targeting solo travelers who want to enjoy the cutting edge design of a boutique hotel while still experiencing the social vibe of a hostel, the hotel offers affordable and comfortable suites alongside 88 independent sleeping pods. Breaking with the outdated tradition of shared dormitory-style facilities, bathrooms are located within the suites themselves and communal rooms include a living room, rooftop patio, and toy box to really enhance the social experience for guests.
Luxury: For stunning mountain views and impeccable hospitality, look no further than The Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Located at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain, you’ll enjoy ski to your door convenience as well as a host of live entertainment in the classic après ski lounge. Following a 5-year hotel renovation that has included the creation of eleven Alpine Suites, a Portobello Deli redesign, 150 bathroom facelifts, and pool complex renovation, a further $4.3 million is being invested during the final quarter of 2018 to enhance the 44 non-Fairmont Gold Suites with modern spa bathrooms, built-in wet bar, and updated modern alpine decor. Ahh luxury!
Room with a view: Wherever you stay in Whistler, it’s highly likely you’ll enjoy a great view from any window. However, for something truly spectacular stay at Nita Lake Lodge. This intimate lakeside haven is a well-established wedding venue too, and comfy king-size beds, cozy decor and beautiful and breathtaking views of the mountain landscape come as standard.
Getting to Whistler and Booking Info
Fly to Vancouver International Airport, from which daily, frequent shuttle buses operate to Whistler. These buses generally take around 2 hours, but you’ll travel in comfort taking in the breathtaking views along the Sea to Sky Highway.
Tourism Whistler has plenty of advice when it comes to travel essentials, as well as the latest events listings and what’s on features.