Here’s our guide to spending 24 hours in Whistler, three different ways.
As North America’s largest ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb is nothing but flexible. You can take your entire extended family of non-skiers along, take a romantic holiday with your significant other, or treat yourself to the ski trip of a lifetime – and have a great time regardless of how you’re doing it.
Whistler for singles
With over 200 runs and 8000 acres (3300 hectares) of skiing terrain to explore, you’ll have an incredible time exploring Whistler Blackcomb without anyone to hold you back – and you’ll always have someone to chat to on the chairlift. But if you’d like the company of a local, Whistler offers up daily free mountain tours for skiers and snowboarders to learn your way around the mountain. You can even sign up for an Avalanche Awareness tour with Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol, which covers off everything from terrain evaluation to rescue techniques.
When you’re ready for a drink after enjoying everything the mountain has to offer, head to the GLC (the Garibaldi Lift Company). Thanks to its prime location right by the Whistler Village Gondola, this is a great people and slope-watching spot, and the perfect place to indulge in a classic Canadian poutine along with a Caesar before the party gets going into the evening.
Whistler for couples
When it comes to romance, it’s hard to go past the Scandinave Spa, a traditional Scandinavian spa experience right in the heart of the forest. Go between the hot pools and cold plunge baths, the Finnish sauna and the Eucalyptus steam room to the Nordic waterfall before relaxing by the outdoor fireplace together. While it’s a silent experience, it’s designed for ultimate relaxation, making it the perfect spot to unwind as a couple.
While there are plenty of romantic restaurants located in Whistler Village, catering for every taste (including a champagne and oyster bar at the Bearfoot Bistro) you might like to treat your loved one to something a little more unique – and it doesn’t get more unique than a dining experience at Whistler’s on-mountain Crystal Hut. A heated snowcat will take the two of you to 6000 feet (1828m), where you’ll enjoy a full fondue dinner, fine wine and a fresh-baked fruit pie right out of a wood-fired oven.
Whistler for families
Whistler Blackcomb has a huge variety of terrain available to suit everyone – from family zones and a magic castle to groomed pistes and powder-filled bowls, meaning that the whole family will be happy to explore the mountain, regardless of what skier or snowboarder they might be.
But if you’re looking for an off-mountain activity, you’re in luck. There’s a huge range of family-friendly activities in Whistler, including dog sledding, tubing, sleigh rides, ice skating, ice climbing, indoor kids play pools and plenty more.
Our top pick is the winter Scavenger Hunt created by the Whistler Visitor Centre, which takes kids on an adventure across the resort, covering everything from the Olympics to the classic Whistler Inuksuk.
When the evening rolls around, be sure to catch the Fire and Ice Show at the base of Whistler Mountain on a Sunday. This one’s sure to impress the adrenaline junkies in the family as skiers and snowboarders show off their skills through hoops of fire. Then head to dinner at Creekbread, a local family favourite for the delicious pizzas and kid-friendly restaurant style.
