Whistler
Whistler is absolutely magical. Fortunately and unfortunately for me, I grew up skiing in Whistler so it's, frankly, hard to ski anywhere else. The mountain is huge, runs are long, and the activities in the village are plentiful. This guide will focus on Whistler in the winter.
Best Time To Go
The best time to visit Whistler is during ski season December - March. April tends to be wetter and the snow is often slushy or icy toward the bottom. The mountain usually opens for the ski season end of November but it depends on the year whether there is snowfall. Christmas is a busy and fun time and most of the west coast school breaks (US: MLK, mid-February and Canada: March spring break) are peak busy times. Summers in Whistler are also beautiful and you can hike, kayak, mountain bike, and zip line.
Things To Do in Winter
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Ski or snowboard: it's obvious that the best thing to do on the mountain is to ski or snowboard! Whistler is known for long groomed runs and I would say that their greens are sometimes akin to blues in some local mountains. 7th Heaven (7363 ft) is as close to heaven as you can get on a bluebird day with stunning views and often powdered snow.
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Whistler Ski School: we always put the kids in lessons to continue to hone their skills, and it also gives us some adult ski time. Whistler kids lessons are world class, it's a very well oiled machine and the kids love it because they are challenged, but also have fun with new friends and of course a hot chocolate or two never hurt anyone.
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Apres Ski: it's part of ski culture so who can resist? There are so many fun apres ski venues such as Longhorn or Joe Fortes, but my favorite is Mallard at Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Mallard has live music, good drinks and a casual chic atmosphere. It's always very busy, so come early and stay late.
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Scandinave Spa: take a break from the snow and enjoy a quiet respite at Scandinave Spa. The spa draws its inspiration from the Nordic spa industry, focussing on hot and cold pools and areas to relax and meditate. Bring a swimsuit, water bottle, and water shoes and they will provide towels and a robe. You are also able to get a massage with your thermal journey, however, through my experience, the massages aren't as good as I would have expected. There is a strict "no talking" rule, so be aware that it's best to go solo or perhaps with your significant other. I would also suggest eating something before your appointment as the cafe menu is fairly limited.
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Ice Skating: Whistler Olympic Plaza is in the heart of Whistler Village and it is a favorite of those young and old(er). The rink is beautifully decorated with illuminated stars and surrounding trees. Though the rink small, it is large enough to have some fun.
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Scroll Around Whistler Village: it's surprising how many shops and restaurants there are in Whistler Village, but you can spend all day and not get bored. There are the usual Canadian suspects like Aritzia, Roots, and Lululemon, but there are many bespoke local shops as well. After all the shopping, hop into Bar Oso for tapas and a drink.​​
Where To Eat
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Quattro: hands down the best Italian food in Whistler.
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Wild Blue Restaurant + Bar: amazing food and cocktails. Try the sablefish where the broth is made from roasting the fish bones, and their soup special which is always tasty with a beautiful presentation. I'm sure they rotate the steak menu, but we had the Picanha this winter, which was fantastic but quite rich so a couple pieces is more than enough. I would recommend this restaurant for date night or adults only.
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Pasta Lupino: cozy and low key, this restaurant boasts simple homemade pasta and sauces.
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Pure Bread: this bakery is delicious and always busy. Grab a croissant, cookie, and coffee to go in the morning.
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Araxi: a favorite among foodies. Seafood is definitely their specialty, though they have a few pastas mainly for kids. We always enjoy our dinners there, and service is usually outstanding.
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Cows: it's never too cold for ice cream. Cows has been a staple in the village since I was a kid. Their delicious ice cream is made from a family recipe and they have a variety of flavors to choose from.
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Bluebird Family Ski Day
BOTTLED
MEMORIES IN WHISTLER
Unforgettable moments with friends
Kids in their Fairmont Robes
Travel Tips
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​Make dinner reservations at least two months in advance for popular restaurants.
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Sort your luggage into three - ski clothes, apres ski outfits including dry jackets and swim, and a smaller duffel/carry on for ski clothes the day of arrival since the hotel check in is usually not until 4pm. The third bag is key so that you can hit the slopes without rummaging through your main luggages.
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Stop in Squamish for a drive through breakfast at McDonalds or Tim Hortons. It's a tradition for us.​
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Hotels in Whistler
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Our annual trip to Whistler is made magical, in part, by staying at Chateau Whistler. The hotel is ski in/out, the service is excellent, and the restaurants such as Wildflower and Mallard are very good. The kids love the hotel because the pool is large, bathwater warm, and has both indoor and outdoor sections. There is also a small hill on the side of the hotel where kids can sled while parents can watch by the fire. The adults love the hotel for the incredible apres ski, Vida Spa, and drinks by the pool. The hotel is located at Blackcomb Base and is approximately a ten minute walk to Whistler Village. They also have a complimentary shuttle and car service which makes going to dinner in the village convenient.
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*We have stayed here for the past seven years and love it every time.
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Westin Resort and Spa
The hotel is right in Whistler Village so the location is very central. Each room has a small kitchen and living space which makes this hotel best for those who like to make breakfast or a quick lunch before hitting the slopes. It is also great for families with small children where you need some space to prepare and wash bottles and food. Heavenly beds make each night restful and comfortable. While not ski in/out, the hotel is conveniently located right next to the gondola.​
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Four Seasons Resort and Residences
Four Seasons is always at the pinnacle of luxury and five star service. Rated by Condé Nast Traveler's as the #1 Resort in Canada, discerning travelers will stay in a spacious room in the Blackcomb Base. Deluxe rooms have a balcony and fireplace to relax after a long day. The hotel has an amazing spa, outdoor heated pool, and a seasonal Macallan whiskey bar. Sidecut Steakhouse is a convenient dinner option and offers amazing steak and also a popular kids menu. The only drawback is that the hotel is not ski in/out.