As the bend in the road curves sharply, the coach starts to slow down and the loud voices of skiers and snow boarders debating over which sport is ‘cooler’ suddenly go quiet. Heads turn to look outside at the most spectacular view: giant towering cedars draped in a blanket of white snow with frozen lakes beside them forming a path to the fairy tale village of Whistler.
Located just 77 miles from Vancouver, the resort town of Whistler has become one of the most popular ski resorts in the world – and with good reason. Not only is it the venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics, which has added to its global recognition, but it caters to everyone from novice to professional skiers and even non-skiers. Both mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, offer a varied terrain suitable for every ability. But that’s not the only reason millions visit the resort each year. The pedestrianised Whistler Village has lots to keep everyone, including young children and teenagers, entertained with its shops, cinemas, gourmet restaurants and lively après ski.
Flights to Whistler arrive at Vancouver Airport, from here Whistler is a two-hour drive or coach ride along the famous Sea-to-Sky highway.