A quick lowdown on eating, staying and playing in Whistler, Canada
Looking for ideas for a winter travel destination? Here are some details of what you can expect when travelling to Whistler, Canada.
Whistler is North America’s leading ski resort attracting snow-worshippers from around the world. Whether you’re looking to enjoy Whistler on a budget or looking to go all out, here’s our guide to Canada’s ultimate winter wonderland.
Eating in Whistler
Here are your potential dining options.
Going all out
The Bearfoot Bistro is one of the best dining options in Whistler for those who love to go all out. The restaurant has been established in Whistler for many years and is a favourite among locals. Sit back and relax while the executive chef creates a five-course tasting menu.
Vegetarian and vegans
The popular Aura Restaurant launched its three-course vegan dinner during the autumn of 2018 to offer up beautifully prepared, local produce accompanied by an extensive wine selection.
The butternut squash farro risotto comes highly recommended and the menu is sure to be a treat even for meat-lovers who fancy an explosion of veggie flavour. While you’re there, grab a pre-dinner cocktail at Aura’s Cure Lounge.
Cave dining
As the result of an exciting collaboration between Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler and Head-Line Mountain Holidays, the Blue Room package sees guests traveling to an ice cave by helicopter before enjoying a guided tour of the natural ice sculptures.
Once the tour is over, you’ll enjoy a five-course menu in the ice cave, swilled down with Krug champagne. Think caviar served on snow and delicious oysters sourced locally from Vancouver Island.
Staying in Whistler
Need somewhere to stay? Here are some choices.
Going all out
For a taste of luxury, check in to the Four Seasons Resort – the only hotel in Whistler awarded the Forbes five-star award. For those who find it impossible to travel light, a walk-in closet fits an outfit for every occasion. During winter, indulge in toasted marshmallows and hot cocktails on the outdoor deck.
On a budget
The brand new Pangea Pod has redefined shared accommodation targeting travellers who seek the leading-edge design of a boutique hotel with the social vibe of a hostel.
Affordable and comfortable, eight custom suites are available alongside 88 independent sleeping pods. Bathrooms are all located within the suites themselves breaking with the rather outdated tradition of shared dormitory-style facilities.
Best for groups
Whether you’re enjoying a long weekend trip with the girls or heading off on a raucous ski holiday, the Aava is a crowd pleaser.
Situated just a stones throw from Whistler Village yet still enjoying peace and quiet, the hotel has a heated outdoor pool, comfortable rooms, dry sauna and an on-site fitness centre. There’s even free GoPro hire at reception so you can capture those epic moments on the slopes.
Playing in Whistler
Looking for activities to keep you entertained in Whistler? Here are some ideas.
Skiing and snowboarding
No matter what your level of ability, Whistler’s skiing and snowboarding is among the best in the world. Choose from a selection of instructors to brush up on those skills, and enjoy an exclusive guide to the very best runs. You’ll also skip those lift queues! Whistler’s slopes are extremely family-friendly.
Après-ski like a Canadian
One of the top things to do in Whistler is axe throwing, a quintessentially Canadian pastime started in the days of the lumberjack. In this exciting alternative to darts, you’ll compete with your friends in a tournament that will test your aim and fire up your competitive spirit.
The Forged team will be on hand to show you how to throw – oh, and keep track of the scores of course! Axe throwing is Whistler’s number one indoor activity and is a great way to round off a day on the slopes.
If you prefer the power of a motor engine, try snowmobiling in the rugged Whistler backcountry. Climb fire roads, explore ridelines and roop it up in fresh snow, enjoying spectacular views of the province…
Relax
British Columbia is blessed with a nexus of hot springs ready to enjoy – all just a short drive away from the village. This is one of the best ways to check out the stunning scenery and relax those muscles after some serious skiing or snowboarding.
A visit to Whistler this winter wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Whistler hot springs. While a visit to a hot spring is truly epic, you’ll find options to relax closer to home at a Whistler spa. Choose from a range of treatments and massages or take a dip in a bubbling jacuzzi to truly wind down in style.
Getting to Whistler
Flights depart daily from the UK to Vancouver International Airport. Daily shuttle buses operate to Whistler from Vancouver Airport and the journey takes just two hours.
Photo credit: Whistler Tourism/Mike Crane
