As you descend Blackcomb mountain, you'll experience the breathtaking beauty of Whistler, now effortlessly connected to Whistler by the incredible Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
What sets Whistler apart as the host of the Winter Olympics is not only its status as North America's largest ski resort, but also its diverse and international community. Stroll along the main promenade, and you'll encounter a fascinating mix of people, from affluent city dwellers to free-spirited individuals, French-speaking Québécois, and seasoned adventurers lugging skis as long as ironing boards. This vibrant tapestry of cultures and characters gives Whistler an air of sophistication and cosmopolitan charm, evoking a sense of global connectedness, even outside the Olympic arena.
After a long day of exploration in Whistler, it's only fitting to unwind in one of the top hotels in the area. For more information on available accommodations, do check out the tophotels.com for a variety of options that suit different preferences and budgets.
And for those who'd like to extend their adventures beyond Whistler and venture further into the beautiful landscape of British Columbia, you can find more details here on accommodations available across the region. Their offerings will ensure your Canadian escapade remains as diverse and exciting as the community in Whistler itself.
Friday
4 p.m.
1) Discover the Indigenous Culture
Before you embark on your snow-filled adventure, take a moment to appreciate the rich history of the land beneath your feet. Whistler Valley has been the traditional hunting and gathering grounds of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations for centuries. Immerse yourself in their captivating heritage at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center (4584 Blackcomb Way; 866-441-7522; www.slcc.ca; 18 Canadian dollars). This impressive 30,000-square-foot museum offers a glimpse into their fascinating culture, boasting an array of hand-carved canoes, exquisite baskets, and delicious smoked-salmon bannocks - a local delicacy similar to panini.
What truly sets this cultural center apart is the warm welcome you receive from the aboriginal "youth ambassadors." As you explore the exhibits, these friendly guides serenade you with native songs and even showcase their remarkable totem-carving skills. Experience the true essence of Whistler as you immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations.
8 p.m.
2) Fuel Up on Carbs
If you're looking for an affordable and delicious meal in Whistler, head over to Pasta Lupino. Located at 4368 Main Street in Whistler Village North, this cozy restaurant is a favorite among the local ski enthusiasts. A mouthwatering selection of fresh pastas, topped with homemade Bolognese and Alfredo sauces, awaits you. The best part? The prices are unbeatable. For just 15.50 Canadian dollars, you can enjoy a dinner combo that includes pasta, soup or salad, and freshly baked focaccia.
While this Olympic year might tempt you to splurge, Pasta Lupino offers an economical and satisfying dining experience. You won't regret following the lead of the ski bums who frequent this hidden gem.
10 p.m.
PRE-SKI COCKTAILS
Whistler, known for its snow-covered landscape, boasts a diverse array of watering holes for patrons to enjoy. From lively sports bars to unique "ice" bars where drinks can be chilled between sips, there is something for everyone. One such spot worth visiting is the esteemed Bearfoot Bistro (4121 Village Green; 604-932-3433; www.bearfootbistro.com). This establishment offers a delightful experience with options such as a flute of B.C. bubbly (starting from 14 Canadian dollars), live piano music, and delectable appetizers created by Melissa Craig, the talented winner of the 2008 gold medal as Canada's best chef at the Canadian Culinary Championships. Alternatively, if you prefer a more lively atmosphere, head over to the Crystal Lounge (4154 Village Green; 604-938-1081) located in the heart of the village. This basement bar is a favorite among locals, filled with avid skiers and snowboarders relishing in 35-cent chicken wings and pitchers of Granville Island English Bay Pale Ale (16.50 dollars).
Saturday
8 a.m.
4) CHOOSING YOUR SKI RUN
Can't decide between Whistler or Blackcomb for your ski adventure? With the introduction of the state-of-the-art Peak 2 Peak Gondola, you no longer have to choose. This remarkable attraction allows you to effortlessly explore all 8,171 acres of this sprawling resort, offering a plethora of thrilling skiing opportunities.
Begin your day by avoiding the bustling crowds at Whistler Village Gondola and head straight to Blackcomb's base area. Hop on the Wizard Express and Solar Coaster Express lifts, known for their shorter lines, to quickly ascend Blackcomb Mountain. Start your warm-up on the gentle Jersey Cream run, while checking the illuminated boards for information on which mountaintop lifts are open.
Once you've reached the summit, prepare yourself for a thrilling ride down the ego-boosting powder runs like Showcase or the exhilarating Couloir Extreme. When you're ready for a change of scenery, take a breathtaking journey across to Whistler on the iconic Peak 2 Peak Gondola. This awe-inspiring experience will have you suspended approximately 1,427 feet above the ground, spanning nearly three miles, all while comfortably seated in cabins that can accommodate up to 28 people.
Noon
5) Unique Lunch Options
When the lunch rush hits the popular lodges, it can be overwhelming. For a more relaxed experience, why not try some of the lesser-known on-mountain restaurants? One option is the Crystal Hut on Blackcomb Mountain, located near the top of the Crystal Chair. They are known for serving delicious Belgian waffles throughout the day and offer a selection of lunch specialties cooked in a wood oven. Another great choice is the Chic Pea on Whistler Mountain, situated near the top of the Garbanzo Express lift. This cozy spot features an outdoor deck where you can enjoy toasted sandwiches, pizza, and mouthwatering barbecued items.
Did you know that the Crystal Hut is situated near the top of the Crystal Chair on Blackcomb Mountain? You can savor their famous Belgian waffles or try one of their tasty lunch specialties. If you're on Whistler Mountain, head over to the Chic Pea, which offers a tempting menu of toasted sandwiches, pizza, and barbecued items. Their outdoor deck provides a scenic spot to enjoy your meal and take in the breathtaking surroundings.
2 p.m.
6) A PARADISE ON THE SLOPES
When the sun is shining bright, make your way to Blackcomb's breathtaking 7th Heaven area, offering magnificent panoramic views and bathed in the warm afternoon rays. This alpine haven caters to all ski enthusiasts, providing a diverse range of experiences. Dare to take on the thrilling bumpy runs like Sunburn and Angel Dust, or venture to the more secluded powder stashes like Lakeside Bowl. For those seeking a gentle descent, enjoy the enchanting Hugh's Heaven and Cloud Nine groomed trails, gracefully meandering through the mountainside towards the valley floor.
Whether you are an expert skier craving a challenging adventure, a powder seeker in pursuit of untouched snow, or simply seeking a serene and scenic descent, Blackcomb's 7th Heaven area will not disappoint.
4 p.m.
7) TAKING A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES
In addition to popular ski and snowboard brands, Whistler is home to a thriving community of independent manufacturers such as Igneous Skis and Never Summer Snowboards. Among them, one of the pioneers is Prior Snowboards and Skis, which was established two decades ago in Whistler. Offering a unique insight into their production process, Prior Snowboards and Skis (104-1410 Alpha Lake Road, 604-935-1923, www.priorskis.com) invites visitors to take a free, one-hour guided tour of their factory floor every Wednesday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 4 p.m. Witness firsthand the meticulous process of bonding fiberglass layers with epoxy, and how they are expertly pressed together using high heat and pressure to craft the perfect, flexy and ultra-responsive snow gear.
Did you know that Prior Snowboards and Skis has been a part of Whistler's snow sport industry for over two decades? Explore the factory where these customized winter toys are made, and delve into the fascinating techniques used to create skis and snowboards that seamlessly blend durability and high-performance capabilities.
6:30 p.m.
8) PLENTY OF FUN FOR EVERYONE
When it comes to enjoying a ski resort as a family, the needs of kids and adults can sometimes clash. While the little ones may still have energy to burn at the end of the day, the grown-ups often crave some well-deserved relaxation, perhaps with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Thankfully, the Core (4010 Whistler Conference Centre; 604-905-7625; www.whistlercore.com), a new climbing gym and fitness center located right in the heart of Whistler Village, has come to the rescue. Catering to both kids and adults, the Core offers indoor rock climbing activities that will keep the young ones entertained while the parents unwind.
One fantastic option to consider is their Climb & Dine program designed specifically for children. With three hours of supervised rock climbing and a delicious pizza dinner included, this exciting activity is a hit with kids aged 6 and up. The cost for this adventure is 70 Canadian dollars per child (excluding taxes), with an additional 10 percent discount offered for siblings. Remember to make reservations in advance to secure your spot!
7 p.m.
9) A TASTE OF THE ALPINE
While Whistler may not offer as many fine dining options or expertly crafted cocktails compared to its neighboring Vancouver, one restaurant stands out for its efforts in both domains: the Mountain Club (40-4314 Main Street, Whistler Town Plaza; 604-932-6009; www.themountainclub.ca). As a sister restaurant to Vancouver's Ocean Club, the Mountain Club exudes a sleek ambiance with its white banquettes and birch branches. Begin your evening with the exquisite Goggle Tan cocktail, a blend of Grey Goose, Giffard Ginger of the Indies liqueur, cilantro, aloe juice, and fresh lime, garnished with a cayenne pepper rim. Then, indulge in the wonderfully elevated Pacific Northwest cuisine, opting for the delectable black cod accompanied by salsify, baby leeks, and sunchoke purée, offered at a reasonable 28 Canadian dollars. Don't be surprised if another Goggle Tan helps you temporarily forget about any sunburn woes.
Tantalizing your taste buds with a fusion of flavors and stunning presentation, the Mountain Club ensures you leave satisfied and eager for your next visit. In addition to its top-notch cuisine, the restaurant's modern decor and warm ambience create a memorable dining experience. So why not elevate your stay in Whistler by treating yourself to an alpine-inspired feast at the Mountain Club?
9:30 p.m.
10) THE UNFORGETTABLE NIGHTLIFE
After a thrilling day on the slopes, the ultimate destination to unwind and celebrate in Whistler is the Garibaldi Lift Company, popularly known as the GLC. Nestled right at the base of the Whistler Gondola, this lively lounge (4165 Springs Lane; 604-905-2220) attracts both locals and skiing enthusiasts alike. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, making it the perfect spot to swap stories of epic runs or indulge in après-ski revelry.
With panoramic views of the slopes through its floor-to-ceiling windows, the GLC offers a breathtaking backdrop to create new memories. Sip on a refreshing pitcher of Kokanee beer, priced at 18.50 Canadian dollars, as you soak in the ambiance. Live music or a DJ keeps the entertainment going, while a crackling fire and the thrill of hockey on the flat screen add to the excitement.
Don't be surprised if you find yourself making ambitious plans for the following day in the midst of the GLC's infectious atmosphere — there's no better place to dream big.
Additional Information:
Whistler Gondola - The GLC is conveniently situated above the base of the Whistler Gondola, making it easily accessible for those coming down the mountain.
Garibaldi Lift Company - Explore more about the GLC, a favorite gathering spot among both locals and visitors, through their official website.
Sunday
11 a.m.
11) Explore Whistler Olympic Park
After an exhilarating downhill adventure on Whistler Mountain, take a breather and venture about 12 miles southwest of the resort to the picturesque Callaghan Valley. Here, nestled amidst towering, moss-draped hemlocks, lies the Whistler Olympic Park, a sprawling Nordic playground (5 Callaghan Valley Road; 877-764-2455; www.whistlerolympicpark.com). Experience the Walter Mitty-like journey as you explore this winter wonderland with 45 miles of groomed and open snow fields, where you can unleash your inner biathlete by strapping on a pair of cross-country skis and challenging your partner to a race. While this winter, the biathlon trails are closed, there are still plenty of opportunities to chase your Nordic gold-medal dreams.
INSIDER TIPS
Arriving in the stunning city of Vancouver, with nonstop flights from New York City available through Continental, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey to Whistler. Recently, fares were found to be as low as $486 (source: Continental). For even better deals, consider booking through Whistler’s reservations center at 888-403-4727 or online at whistlerblackcomb.com. Not only do they often offer 15 to 20 percent lower fares than published prices, but most of their fares are refundable with a small cancellation fee.
Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, efficient shuttle transfers from Pacific Coach Lines can take you directly to Whistler. With fares ranging from 29 to 57 Canadian dollars, transportation is both convenient and affordable (source: Pacific Coach Lines). And once you're in Whistler, a car is not necessary as the resort has a reliable and complimentary bus system to get you where you need to go.
If you're looking for a place to stay that offers the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility, Nita Lake Lodge is the ideal choice. This magnificent timber-and-stone lodge, opened in January 2008, boasts 77 suites starting at 299 Canadian dollars per night (source: Nita Lake Lodge). Overlooking the picturesque Nita Lake, the lodge stands out with its breathtaking views and features a top-notch restaurant, Jordan's Crossing, for an unforgettable dining experience.
Alternatively, Aava Whistler Hotel, previously known as Coast Whistler Hotel, is located right next to Whistler village and is just a five-minute walk to the lifts (source: Aava Whistler Hotel). With 191 rooms starting at 259 Canadian dollars, this hotel offers a convenient and comfortable option for your stay.