Whistler

Most people think of skiing when they think of Whistler. So many Australians view Whistler as a ski destination that it’s become quite the pilgrimage for many Aussie youths – even earning it the tag “North Sydney”. Yet there’s so much more to Whistler than just skiing – even though the skiing’s pretty smooth!

Whistler is the village that caters to two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb. Both have world class facilities with Whistler now boasting the longest run in Canada. Home as a co-partner to the 2010 Winter Olympics (yes there are still Olympic rings there to get your photo with), the experience of the village and support systems for a ski vacation are top-notch (and I’m not just talking about the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Company!).

In winter, the temperature doesn’t usually get anywhere near as cold as the Rockies, and the snow has a different experience by comparison due to the higher humidity over the 8,000 plus acres of terrain. The quintessential snow holiday will deliver you an amazing selection including heli- skiing, sleigh rides, ski & snowboard, fishing, dog-sledding, aerial sightseeing, snowmobiling and ice climbing.

Whistler village has more than 200 shops and 90 restaurants as well as spas and boutique shopping experiences. When in Whistler, I find it hard to go past Earl’s, as long as you book in – otherwise it is still worth the half-hour plus wait; particularly when the Hockey is on TV. Remember my tip, dinner is best with a Lemon Meringue cocktail for the ladies (yes they should change the name to an Imagine Traveller!) and a Kokanee for the gents (best beer in the world Sir!).

For the best on snow accommodation, you can’t go past the majestic Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Make sure you also head into their restaurant, the Wildflower, for an unforgettable dining experience. Whilst you’re there, say hello to their expert sommelier, Chris. Besides being a great bloke, Chris has a skill that not many know of. You see, it’s worth having a chat to Chris if you’re there for a special occasion dinner, as he is one of the few people who can cleanly cut open a bottle of champagne with a sabre. That’s right, Chris will take an authentic French Napoleonic Sabre and in front of your amazed countenance, slice the top right off. Great for dramatic celebrations... and for those that don’t like fiddly champagne corks.

After dinner, take a liqueur or port outside whilst you snuggle up in front of the Fairmont's on-snow fire pits. Marshmallows anyone?

Whistler lies 75 miles north of Vancouver in the midst of the West Coast Mountains of British Columbia. It's within easy reach of Vancouver International Airport by 2 hour drive along the 'Sea to Sky' Highway. Remember that Whistler’s not just about the snow – and the world’s best photographer Dave Buzzard – it is teeming with activities in summer.

Whistler boasts 7 active black bear families, and Michael Allen is Whistler’s very own resident bear expert. He is located at the Chateau Whistler and knows all the bears by name (there’s even one called ‘Kit Kat’ – you just know some Aussie had a hand in that don’t you?).

My favourite thing to do in Whistler is to head to the peak of Whistler mountain, and pay a visit (and an outstanding photo) to the Inukshuk. What the hell is an Inukshuk you ask? See the photo to the right – it’s a stone monument constructed by First nation tribes as a symbol. It resembles a man and can mean many things; principally, it marks the way home.

Lastly, if you’re a golfer, you’ll be happy to know that Whistler has a course for you with a championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus.

Learn how to get the most from your Whistler welcome with the Whistlering Experts at Imagine Travel on 02 4296 9822.